236-240

Chapter 236: Formations

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: - -

"We can't walk through here? Does the road belong to you?" Shen Bi Ru's face darkened.

Zhang Xuan also turned to look at them.

Due to his pure zhenqi, even Liu shi was unable to see through his cultivation if he intentionally hid it. Naturally, these people couldn't see through his cultivation either.

Having reached Tongxuan realm pinnacle, as long as his opponent wasn't a Zongshi realm expert, there was no need for him to fear anyone at all. If these people intended to pick a fight with him, he didn't mind teaching them a lesson.

However, before he could say anything, the young man had already interjected.

"What are you all doing? Sheathe your weapons! Not everything can be solved through force!"

"Yes!" Upon hearing his words, the others hurriedly sheathed their weapons.

"Please don't be alarmed, we don't have any evil intentions! To be honest, I am the seventh prince of Hanwu Kingdom, Yun Tao, and I am currently in the midst of my 1-star beast tamer examination. I have already passed the first trial. As long as I can tame a Pixue realm savage beast, I will pass the examination!"

Stepping forward, the young man smiled kindly.

"The reason why my men stopped you two is because the [Gold Alloyed Panther] I intend to tame is right ahead. That savage beast possesses incredible speed. We've tracked it for ten days already, so we intend to set a trap for it here. If you walk through now, you might alarm it. If so, our previous efforts would be in vain. So please, I hope you understand! If you two feel offended by our actions, I will be sure to compensate you both after capturing this Gold Alloyed Panther!"

"Then… we'll wait for a while!"

Seeing the other party speaking politely to them, Shen Bi Ru glanced at Zhang Xuan, and upon seeing him nod his head, Shen Bi Ru agreed to the other party's request.

If others were willing to speak politely, Zhang Xuan was willing to listen to their request.

Since the person explained the situation to them earnestly, Zhang Xuan didn't mind the slight inconvenience.

In any case, he and Shen Bi Ru were exhausted after walking for an entire day, so it wouldn't hurt to rest. At the same time, he could gather some information on the Beast Hall.

"Thank you for understanding!"

Upon seeing them relent, Yun Tao nodded his head in satisfaction. After instructing for the others to continue setting the trap, he walked over to Shen Bi Ru.

"May I know how to address the two of you?"

"I am Shen Bi Ru, this is Zhang Xuan!" Shen laoshi replied.

"Oh, so it's Shen xiaojie. Pleased to meet you!" Yun Tao nodded his head, neglecting Zhang Xuan from the very start.

It wasn't surprising that he would disregard Zhang Xuan. After cultivating the Heaven's Path Golden Body, Zhang Xuan's skin had become smooth, giving him the appearance of a seventeen-year-old teenager. Furthermore, his clothes were shabby. No matter how Yun Tao looked at him, he seemed like a mere lackey.

"May I know what affairs xiaojie has at the Beast Hall? If nothing goes wrong, I should be able to pass the beast tamer examination. If so, I will gain considerable say within the Beast Hall!" Yun Tao spoke with a confident smile.

"I appreciate Your Highness's goodwill, but we only intend to rent an aerial savage beast, so we probably won't need your help." Shen Bi Ru rejected his offer politely.

As the icy goddess of Hongtian Academy, she was familiar with such pickup methods. As a result, she immediately blocked his advances.

"Regardless, fate has brought us together, so there's no need for Shen xiaojie to be so courteous with me. Without the help of a beast tamer, it will be difficult to pick out a good aerial savage beast and it could prove dangerous. How about this: after I capture the Gold Alloyed Panther and go back to the Beast Hall, I'll help you pick out a good one!" Yun Tao said.

"No, thanks!" Shen Bi Ru turned down his offer.

"Even though the aerial savage beasts loaned by the Beast Hall are all tamed and it is unlikely for there any problems to occur, different savage beasts have different endurance levels and reaction speeds. If you don't choose a good one and meet with the attacks of other savage beasts in midair, it is possible for mishaps to happen. Shen xiaojie, there is no need for stand on ceremony with me!"

Lightly flinging his sleeves backward, Yun Tao exuded a dashing aura. His words were filled with concern and sincerity.

Regardless of whether it was her disposition or appearance, the lady before him was the most beautiful he had ever seen. He wanted to display his superiority to move the heart of the beauty.

"This…" She intended to reject him, but upon recalling that Zhang laoshi would be riding on the savage beast, Shen Bi Ru eventually relented and nodded her head. "I'll be troubling you then!"

"It's no trouble. I've been learning for twelve years now and I am well-acquainted with all of the savage beasts in the Beast Hall, be it their habits, endurance, age, reaction speed…. I have mastered them all. Rest easy, there won't be any problems whatsoever! If not for our fated meeting here, I wouldn't help anyone else even if they paid me a huge sum of money…."

Upon seeing her agree, Yun Tao's eyes lit up. "A while ago, a powerful official from your Tianxuan Kingdom tried to recruit me for my services, but I rejected his request…."

Seeing that this guy intended to show off to display his strengths and capabilities, Zhang Xuan could no longer hold back. Shaking his head helplessly, he walked over to the other people.

The trap they spoke of wasn't just digging a pit and covering it with straw and leaves.

This kind of elementary level trap might work on wild animals, but savage beasts possessed intelligence. Not only would one be unable to capture a savage beast through such means, the savage beast might even feel offended and come and assault the trapper.

The Pixue realm cultivators who had come along with Yun Tao held several dark grey flags in their hands. After measuring the coordinates properly, they staked them into the ground.

'Is this… a formation?' Upon seeing their actions, a thought popped into Zhang Xuan's head.

Formation master was also one of the top occupations among the Upper Nine Paths, and their standing wasn't inferior to the apothecary job in the least. It was one of the more popular occupations.

Even though there were some records on formations in the kingdom's Book Collection Vault, the information on them was terse. They only spoke of the fundamentals. As for how one could set up a formation and how one activated it… there wasn't any information at all.

After all, Tianxuan Kingdom was just a remote country on the sidelines. It didn't even have a Formation Master Guild. As such, the information accessible to it was limited.

Even though the information detailed in the books was limited, the movements of these people were aligned with the concept of formations described in those books. As a result, Zhang Xuan was able to recognize it instantly.

According to the descriptions, once a formation was successfully laid out, a unique force field would be generated. Once triggered, it would display all kinds of unique effects.

A confinement formation would trap a person, making the target lose their sense of direction and wander aimlessly within it. A hypnotizing formation would induce illusions, leaving one's mental state in disarray. A kill formation would destroy a person immediately with its fearsome strength.

This was the first time Zhang Xuan had seen someone set up a formation. He was full of curiosity.

"Just these few flags can trap that Gold Alloyed Panther he spoke of?"

Staring at their actions, Zhang Xuan soon realized that he was unable to comprehend anything about that formation at all and shook his head helplessly.

Just like pill forging and painting, setting up a formation was an advanced skill requiring in-depth knowledge. Putting aside perceiving the effects of the formation, Zhang Xuan didn't even know what purpose those flags served.

"Zhang laoshi, what's wrong?"

Suddenly, Shen Bi Ru's voice echoed behind him. As he turned around, he saw Shen Bi Ru right behind him. She seemed to be unable to stand the other party's narcissistic talk and came over to escape.

"I'm just curious what kind of trap they are setting up!" Zhang Xuan replied.

"It seems to be a formation. There isn't a Formation Master Guild in Tianxuan Kingdom, and as such, we don't have many books on formations. As a result, I don't know too much about formations either." Shen Bi Ru also recognized it immediately.

"Indeed. For a few flags to create a powerful formation with mystical effects, it is indeed incredible!" Zhang Xuan commented.

"None of the occupations ranked among the Upper Nine Paths are simple. It is said that even a Half-Zongshi would find it difficult to escape from a formation set up by an official formation master. In fact, if they are unlucky, they might even be killed by it. Even though those guys seem to be placing the flags at random, there must be a certain logic to it!" Shen Bi Ru nodded her head.

"Yeah! I'm just checking it out!" Zhang Xuan smiled.

The topic of formations was a profound one, and without years of effort, it was impossible for one to bear any results. Since Zhang Xuan was unable to comprehend anything about it, he simply regarded it as a novelty.

"Checking it out?" Yun Tao walked over. With his head lifted high, he glanced askance at Zhang Xuan and chuckled softly, "The study of formations is profound and deep. Are you sure you can comprehend it?"

"I am an outsider who has never studied the topic, so I don't know too much about it!" Zhang Xuan admitted. Curious, he asked, "Based on your tone, Your Highness seems to be well-versed in formations?"

"Of course!"

The edges of Yun Tao's lips curled up and a proud expression appeared on his face. "Actually, I also study formations during my spare time and I am an apprentice formation master, so I have quite a bit of knowledge about formations."

"Apprentice formation master?"

Zhang Xuan and Shen Bi Ru stared at one another in shock.

For him to be both an apprentice beast tamer and an apprentice formation master, especially when the two occupations were of the Upper Nine Paths, Yun Tao indeed possessed the right to brag about his achievements.

"Since you don't understand, allow me to introduce it to you two!"

Seeing the shock of the pair's face, Yun Tao was delighted. With a smile, he raised his head proudly and explained, "The formation they are setting up is called [Green Wood Confinement Formation]. The core of the formation is based on the 36 Heavenly Spirits whereas the flags used in the formation are placed based on the 72 Earthly Fiends. Containing the element of wood, it gathers eight different attributes of spiritual energy…. Through such, the force field of the formation is formed, and once activated, it unleashes great power."

"Green Wood Confinement Formation? Just by using these small flags?"

"Indeed! These flags are just supporting equipment. Although setting up the formation is important and the coordinates of the flags must be precise, the activation of the formation is important as well. After they're done, I will activate it. If I succeed, even though the Gold Alloyed Panther's life won't be at risk if it were to step into the formation, it can't escape!"

While they were conversing, the others finished setting up the formations.

Chuckling lightly, Yun Tao stepped forward, took out a golden flag, shook it lightly, and placed it into the center of the formation.

Weng!

With a light ring, the formation seemed to have been activated. All of the formation flags seemed to have disappeared amid the greenery, making it hard to spot.

If not for Zhang Xuan witnessing the setting up of the formation personally, it would have been hard for him to believe there was a formation here.

"Incredible…"

Impressed, Zhang Xuan was about to say something when his mind jolted and a book appeared in the library.

Turning his attention to the book, the words "Green Wood Confinement Formation" were written on it.

Flipping through it, the flaws of the formation were detailed within.

"Green Wood Confinement Formation: a wood element formation. The formation flags are made from the spotted laurel plant, and the formation contains the ability of confining and restricting the target's movements. It was created three hundred years ago by 2-star Formation Master Tao Yuan. Flaws: 17 aspects. No. 1…"

"The formation activated here is a simplified version with a total of 72 flaws. No. 1…"

After reading through the book, Zhang Xuan was taken aback. He stared at the gleeful and proud prince with a strange expression.

"Are you sure that... this formation can confine the Gold Alloyed Panther?"

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Chapter 237: Play Somewhere Else!

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: - -

"Of course! I bought this formation from the Formation Master Guild at a high price. Even a Tongxuan realm primary stage expert would be trapped in it, let alone a Pixue realm savage beast!"

Yun Tao gestured grandly as he turned to look at Zhang Xuan. "Why? Do you doubt the ability of this Green Wood Confinement Formation?"

"That isn't it!" Zhang Xuan shook his head. "I just think that there's something wrong with the setup of this formation, and it might be unable to display its full strength—"

"Arrogant! Do you even know what a formation is?"

"Where did this bumpkin come from, trying to doubt the formation His Highness has set up?"

"Know your place…."

Before Zhang Xuan could finish speaking, angry bellowing interrupted him.

They came from Yun Tao's subordinates.

They had heard the conversation between that boy and their prince. This fellow, who didn't even know what a formation was, said that something was amiss about the setup of the formation….

How can you be so thick-skinned?

Do you know how the formation functions? Do you know how strong it'll be after it's activated?

Doubting His Highness's capability despite knowing nothing at all? He sure is arrogant!

"Cough cough, Zhang laoshi. We shouldn't interfere in their affairs…."

Hearing the criticism from the group, Shen Bi Ru's face reddened.

She was rendered completely speechless by Zhang laoshi.

Wasn't saying that there was something wrong with the setup of the formation equivalent to mocking Prince Yun Tao?

Even though this fellow was narcissistic, he possessed true ability. Since they were ignorant about formations, it was best for them to not get involved in this affair. It wasn't a wise decision to offend a soon-to-be beast tamer before reaching the Beast Hall.

Seeing the indignance in everyone's eyes, Zhang Xuan shook his head helplessly.

Since his kind words fell on deaf ears, Zhang Xuan decided to stay out of the matter.

"The study of formations is as deep and vast as the ocean. Since you are ignorant, you shouldn't speak of it lightly. You're lucky that I am magnanimous, otherwise I would teach you a lesson based on the words you just said. Even beating you to death would be considered a light penalty!"

Yun Tao glared at Zhang Xuan and harrumphed. Then he pointed to the formation and continued confidently, "This Green Wood Confinement Formation, when complemented with trees, will have its effects amplified. Given the bushes and trees around, this is a suitable location for the setup of this formation. Later, I will show you how impressive the formation is by capturing the Gold Alloyed Panther!"

"Sure!"

Seeing through the other party's desire to impress Shen Bi Ru, Zhang Xuan didn't linger on the topic and stood to the side.

Only then did Yun Tao nod his head in satisfaction. Just when he was about to continue bragging about the capability of the formation, a roar echoed from the front.

Then a massive figure charged out.

The Gold Alloyed Panther!

This Pixue realm savage beast was around four meters long. Its golden body was covered with green spots. Even from several hundred meters out, it exerted strong pressure onto the group.

"It's here…."

Yun Tao's eyes lit up. He immediately rushed nervously forward to take a closer look.

The Gold Alloyed Panther strolled around the area leisurely, and upon seeing the group, instinctively retreated and prepared to leave.

"Light it up!" Yun Tao hurriedly commanded his subordinates upon seeing its actions.

It took them ten days of effort before they were able to track it down. If it escaped, it would be difficult to find it once more.

"Yes!" One subordinate immediately took out a bag and lit it with an ignitable paper roll.

In an instant, a repulsive odor immediately emanated from it. The stench was so strong that it made people feel lightheaded and nauseous.

"This should be the feces of a female Gold Alloyed Panther. Upon burning it, it releases an extremely powerful smell. While it is intolerable to a human, it is irresistible to a male Gold Alloyed Panther."

Shen Bi Ru seemed to be slightly knowledgeable on the topic of taming savage beasts, as she softly explained the situation to Zhang Xuan.

Feeling faint from the overpowering stench, it was a wonder to Zhang Xuan why that fellow would be attracted to such an odor. Turning to look at the Gold Alloyed Panther, it had stopped in its tracks upon smelling the scent. After hesitating for a moment, it started heading toward the group.

As the fellow slowly approached them, the group gradually felt the pressure from the savage beast grow stronger.

Slowly, its ferocious appearance and streamlined body appeared clearly before them. Even though it was a Pixue realm savage beast, it was probably capable of warding off eight human cultivators of the same realm easily.

This savage beast was born swift, and coupled with its huge physique and fur serving as a defensive layer, it was capable of matching up to a human cultivator beyond its cultivation realm!

In other words, this Gold Alloyed Panther wasn't incapable of challenging a Tongxuan realm primary stage expert.

"Prepare to trigger the formation!"

Upon seeing the Gold Alloyed Panther being attracted by the scent and walking toward the Green Wood Confinement Formation, Yun Tao clenched his fists in excitement.

As long as he grabbed hold of this fellow and tamed it, he would be able to become an official beast tamer!

With this identity, he could stand out against the other princes. Even if he couldn't inherit the throne, he would gain considerable standing within the empire.

"Hm?"

But to his astonishment, that fellow suddenly stopped ten meters in front of the formation.

As a Pixue realm savage beast, it possessed intelligence. It could sense Yun Tao and the others were up to no good. If not for the alluring scent, it would have escaped long ago.

"Attack it! Find some way to enrage it!"

As befitting of a potential beast tamer, even though Yun Tao was surprised by its actions, he immediately reacted based on his understanding of savage beasts and gave instructions.

"Yes!"

His subordinates had already been waiting for his commands. Hearing his words, they nodded their heads. Retrieving arrows from the quivers on their backs, they nocked the arrow, drew the bowstring, and shot at the Gold Alloyed Panther.

Whoooosh!

The arrows shot through the air straight toward the Gold Alloyed Panther. Since they were specially crafted arrows imbued with the zhenqi of Pixue realm experts, the Gold Alloyed Panther felt threatened by the arrows and its fur stood on end. It immediately leapt to the side to dodge the arrows.

It might have been huge in stature, but its movements were exceptionally agile. Its speed was almost comparable to Lu Xun's when he was executing the Illusory Shadows Nine Celestial Steps.

"Keep it up!" Yun Tao shouted.

Hearing his orders, everyone moved swiftly and arrows fell like rain.

"Roar!"

Seeing the increasing number of arrows, the Gold Alloyed Panther roared furiously. Seemingly completely enraged by their actions, he charged straight toward the group.

Weng!

In just a few paces, it stepped into the range of the formation. A light ringing sound echoed and the Green Wood Confinement Formation was activated. As though it had fallen into quicksand or was trapped in a metal cage, the Gold Alloyed Panther struggled but was unable to break out of the formation.

"So this is a formation! Incredible!"

Shen Bi Ru was impressed.

She had seen the strength of the Gold Alloyed Panther for herself, and she wouldn't have believed that a formation consisting of just a few flags could trap such a powerful savage beast within if she hadn't seen it for herself.

If she intruded on the formation unintentionally, she would be in the same plight as well.

"Looks like I have to be careful of formation masters in the future!" she reminded herself warily.

The reason why formation masters were highly respected was because they possessed the ability to defeat enemies beyond their cultivation realm.

As long as they were given sufficient time to set up a formation, they were able to slaughter an opponent whose strength far surpassed theirs.

"Let's see where you can escape to!"

Oblivious to the dread in Shen Bi Ru's heart, Yun Tao chuckled and glanced at Zhang Xuan gleefully.

Didn't you say that something was wrong with the formation?

Look, wasn't the Gold Alloyed Panther trapped in an instant?

With his hands behind his back, Yun Tao turned to look at his subordinates and ordered, "There's no need to hurry. We should let this fellow thrash about for a bit longer so that it expends its strength!"

"Yes!"

Everyone nodded their heads in agreement as they scattered around the perimeter of the formation.

"Roar!"

While they were waiting for the Gold Alloyed Panther to expend all its stamina and tame it in a single go, a furious roar echoed and the latter charged frenziedly at the formation.

Huala!

The formation shook and the formation flags which had been concealed from view suddenly appeared.

"Your Highness, what do we do…."

Upon seeing the formation flags coming into view, a Pixue realm expert immediately turned to look at Yun Tao anxiously.

"What are you panicking for? Rest easy! The Green Wood Confinement Formation makes use of the geographical terrain to absorb the surrounding wood elemental energy to augment its defense. The Gold Alloyed Panther doesn't have enough strength to break out…."

Yun Tao smiled confidently as he gestured grandly. Just as he was about to continue bragging about the formation, the ground quaked once more. The flags, unable to bear the impact from the charge, flew away.

Hu!

The removal of the formation flags caused the instantaneous collapse of the Green Wood Confinement Formation. With a stride, the furious Gold Alloyed Panther appeared before Yun Tao. Raising its paw, it clawed at him.

"Eh?"

Yun Tao was just bragging about his Green Wood Confinement Formation when this fellow suddenly appeared before him. He yelled in terror and fell paralyzed to the ground.

"You beast!"

"Your Highness, be careful!"

The Pixue realm subordinates immediately rushed over as they drew their weapons. In an instant, numerous swords fell upon the Gold Alloyed Panthers.

Roar!

Disregarding those attacks, the Gold Alloyed Panther whipped its tail at one of Yun Tao's subordinate while smacking another two next to it with its paws.

Pah pah pah!

Yun Tao's subordinates felt a fearsome force traversing through their body as they fell backwards with reddened faces. At the same moment, they felt a sweet sensation gushing up their throat and blood spewed from their mouths.

Even though the few of them were strong, they were still incapable of combating a frenzied Pixue realm savage beast.

"Flee!"

Seeing that even his subordinates were unable to stand their ground against it, Yun Tao nearly fainted from fear. He immediately bellowed and began to run. However, at this moment, he saw the giant body of the Gold Alloyed Panther rushing toward Zhang Xuan and Shen Bi Ru.

"They're doomed…."

He froze.

Even his subordinates were unable to match up to the Gold Alloyed Panther, and that beautiful lady was only at Dingli realm pinnacle. That ignorant lad beside her was likely even weaker. Under such circumstances, Yun Tao couldn't think of any way they could avoid their demise.

Just when he prepared himself for the gruesome sight, that ignorant lad spoke in frustration.

"Are you stupid? They're the ones who want to catch you, why are you going against me?"

Upon hearing his words, everyone swayed.

Was that lad a fool?

Speaking to the Gold Alloyed Panther like that when it was at the peak of its anger, that brat must be tired of living!

Just when everyone thought that the lad with a screw loose would die for sure, they heard his helpless voice once more.

"If you refuse to leave, I'll have to make a move…. Forget it, since you aren't willing to listen to logic, play somewhere else!"

Right after saying those words, a loud slap echoed.

Whiz!

The gigantic body of the Gold Alloyed Panther immediately flew aside. Smashing into a massive tree, white foam leaked from the corners of its mouth as it convulsed.

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Chapter 238: Taming [2 In 1]

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: - -

"What?"

Yun Tao and the others nearly passed out.

What was going on?

This was a Pixue realm Gold Alloyed Panther, it possessed strength rivaling that of a Tongxuan realm primary stage expert. Furthermore, its coat of fur provided it with incredible defense way beyond that of an ordinary cultivator, yet to be sent flying with a single blow and foaming at the mouth….

How strong was that attack?

They swiftly turned their gaze toward that ignorant brat, only to see him walking with a vexed expression toward the Gold Alloyed Panther. Squatting beside it, he stared at it with an expression of lament.

"I told you that the ones who wanted to capture you are them, and that you shouldn't go for me…."

Pu!

Hearing those words, the bodies of Yun Tao and the others convulsed.

The heck!

Do you have to go so far?

No matter what, since fate has allowed us to meet, we should at least get along with one another. What do you mean by those words?

Why are you persuading the savage beast to go for us?

Roar!

Hearing the other party's words, the Gold Alloyed Panther howled in anger. Struggling upright, it roared and sent its paw straight at the fellow nagging at it.

"In the end, you're just a savage beast. I've been wasting my breath trying to explain the situation to you…."

Under the anxious gazes of the group, Zhang Xuan disregarded the claws of the other party and continued nagging. Just when the claws were about to fall on his head, he lifted his palm.

As though time had stopped, the claws capable of even smashing through metal stopped in midair.

Hu!

Then, with a slight raise of the hand, the four-meter-long Gold Alloyed Panther weighing several tons was raised before being thrown to the ground. Then it was raised again before being thrown down once more.

Bang bang bang bang!

A large crater immediately appeared on the ground.

Yun Tao and the others trembled in fear. At this moment, they felt as though they were going insane.

This was a Gold Alloyed Panther, one of the most ferocious savage beasts in the forest. Possessing great might, it was usually the predator. Yet, at this moment, it was being grabbed by its paw and whipped around?

What kind of strength did that youngster possess?

"He… is probably at least at Tongxuan realm pinnacle. He might even be a… Half-Zongshi!" a subordinate of Yun Tao muttered through quivering lips.

"Half-Zongshi? I just mocked a Half-Zongshi? And I said that if I were to teach him a lesson, beating him to death would be considered as a light penalty…."

Yun Tao felt he was about to spit out blood.

Does everything has to be so shitty?

If you're a Half-Zongshi, you should've said so earlier. No matter how audacious I may be, I would never have offended you….

"Look here! The ones who want to capture you are them, not me!"

After smashing him around for a few times and seeing that the Gold Alloyed Panther was on the verge of passing out, Zhang Xuan stopped.

While others were stunned by the sight before them, Zhang Xuan was feeling dismal. He was just an innocent passerby who kindly said that the formation might not be able to trap the savage beast. It was one thing for the others to doubt him, but they had to insult him, making it seem as though he was just a kid trying to brag despite his ignorance.

As a result, he decided to stay out of the affair and allowed the others to do as they pleased. Yet... this fellow came rushing straight at him.

The one undertaking the beast tamer examination was Yun Tao, and the one who set up the formation was him as well. Instead of looking for the mastermind, why did you look for me?

As expected of a savage beast, dumb!

"Let's go!"

Seeing that the Gold Alloyed Panther was on the verge of breathing its last, Zhang Xuan shook his head and turned to Shen Bi Ru.

"OK!"

Shen laoshi walked toward him.

She already knew that Zhang Xuan's cultivation was at Tongxuan realm pinnacle and that the Gold Alloyed Panther wouldn't be a match for him. So she wasn't surprised by the turn of events.

"You two…"

Upon seeing the two leaving, Yun Tao started walking over to stop them. But at this moment, the Gold Alloyed Panther struggled to its feet, walked forward to block Zhang Xuan's path, and lay on the floor prostrating to him. Anticipation gleamed in its eyes.

"This is… Voluntary Submission? The Gold Alloyed Panther is submitting to him?"

As an apprentice beast tamer, Yun Tao was well-versed about the habits of savage beasts.

The Gold Alloyed Panther was clearly in awe of Zhang Xuan's incredible strength and intended to submit to him.

Yun Tao had tracked this savage beast for several days to accomplish his beast tamer examination, and it took a combination of luck and effort before he was able to encounter it. Yet it was submitting to someone else?

Yun Tao experienced depression in the pit of his stomach and nearly spewed blood.

However, there was no way around it anymore. The moment a savage beast decided to submit to someone, it meant that fear had already sprouted in the depths of its heart toward its master, and it wouldn't dare to go against him. Even if Yun Tao were to use all of his means at this moment, he would be unable to change the decision of the savage beast.

A savage beast only recognized a single master in its entire life. Since it was taking the initiative to prostrate itself, it showed its intent to submit to Zhang Xuan. It was too late for Yun Tao to do anything.

"It's mine…"

Tears streamed down Yun Tao's face and he felt despondent. Even so, he was too afraid to say anything.

Yun Tao thought that the other party would be delighted to see the savage beast submitting to him, but the youngster only frowned. "Are you done? If so, scram. Otherwise, I will beat you up again!"

"Wuuuu!"

The Gold Alloyed Panther lowered his head and whimpered.

"Why? You aren't content and wish to get back at me?" Zhang Xuan lifted his leg and prepared to kick it.

"Cough cough, Elder Zhang Xuan…"

Seeing that the other party didn't seem to understand the meaning by the Gold Alloyed Panther's gesture, Yun Tao immediately stepped forward.

Yun Tao had only disregarded Zhang Xuan previously because he thought that he was Shen Bi Ru's lackey, but upon realizing that he was likely to be a Half-Zongshi expert, he didn't dare to be disrespectful to him in any way.

"Elder?"

Zhang Xuan was stunned for a moment as he didn't expect this braggart to address him like this. However, after pondering for a moment, he felt that it wasn't completely unexpected.

"This Gold Alloyed Panther has chosen to submit to you. If you're willing to take it in, pet its head, and feed it with a drop of your blood, it will be loyal to you for the rest of its life…. If you decide to turn it down, you can just turn around and leave!" Yun Tao said.

He could tell that even though this fellow was powerful, he knew nothing about beast taming at all.

Otherwise, how could he not even know the submission positions of savage beasts?

"Chosen to submit to me?" Zhang Xuan was taken aback.

Why did it suddenly submit to me when all I've done was to beat it up?

Looks like beast tamer isn't as hard of an occupation as I think it to be…

If Yun Tao could hear his thoughts, he would definitely spurt blood.

There were many methods to induce a savage beast to submit to a person, such as gratitude, enticement, overwhelming force….

Of which, overwhelming it meant defeating the other party in a battle of strength, rendering it into a completely helpless position.

The Gold Alloyed Panther possessed invincible defense and incredible speed, and with just these two, it was able to give an ordinary Tongxuan realm expert a splitting headache. However, to Zhang Xuan, who cultivated the Heaven's Path Movement Art and Heaven's Path Golden Body, its defensive ability and agility meant nothing at all.

Regardless of which it was, the Gold Alloyed Panther realized that it wasn't a match for this human. Thus, it willingly submitted to Zhang Xuan.

Even though it was simple in theory, it wasn't easy in practice.

Putting everything aside, there were no one beneath Zongshi realm who could triumph against Zhang Xuan in terms of physical ability. Even if there truly were one capable of rivaling Zhang Xuan, there was no reason for him to tame a weak Pixue realm Gold Alloyed Panther.

Zhang Xuan only thought that it was simple because he didn't understand the true underlying difficulty in the matter.

"Wuuuuu!" The Gold Alloyed Panther gazed at Zhang Xuan in anticipation.

Seeing its expectant eyes, Zhang Xuan hesitated for a moment before asking, "Can you fly?"

The Gold Alloyed Panther staggered and nearly fell to the ground.

It was a savage beast that dominated the land, how could it possibly fly?

"If you can't fly, I don't have any use for you…." Zhang Xuan frowned.

His destination was Tianwu Kingdom, tens of thousands of kilometers from here. No matter how swift this fellow could run, it was impossible for him to reach Tianwu Kingdom without taking a month or two. It would be much faster riding on an aerial savage beast instead.

Besides, it didn't have enough strength to contribute to Zhang Xuan's fighting prowess.

In other words… to Zhang Xuan, it didn't matter to him whether he tamed it or not.

Upon seeing his hesitant expression, Yun Tao and his subordinates felt frenzied.

Brother, do you need to be so twisted?

To capture this savage beast, putting aside the dozen or so days we spent tracking it down, just the preparation phase took more than two months by itself. In the end, it ignored us and submitted to you instead. Yet, you are unwilling to accept it….

Why is there such a huge disparity between us even though we are both humans?

"Forget it, since you wish to submit to me, I don't mind taking you in!"

After a moment of hesitation, Zhang Xuan nodded in agreement.

In any case, taking it in shouldn't pose as any problems. Besides, having a Pixue realm savage beast also seemed impressive.

Doing as Yun Tao said, he stretched his hand to pet the Gold Alloyed Panther's head and dripped a drop of blood into its mouth.

The moment the blood drop entered the beast's body, a ritual seemed to have been triggered. A bridge seemed be formed between his mental state with the other party. As its master, he could sense that if he were to give the order, the Gold Alloyed Panther would be willing to die for him.

Furthermore, through this bridge, he could clearly sense the Gold Alloyed Panther's will to serve him. He could also easily give orders to it through this connection.

It was no wonder that beast tamer was such a fearsome occupation. Just its ability to control savage beasts to fight alongside it was already a fearsome feat.

"Since you have submitted to me, you should serve as my mount. I'll be depending on you for the journey to the Beast Hall!" Zhang Xuan said.

However, the Gold Alloyed Panther looked at him pitifully. It struggled to its feet, only for its legs to collapse to the ground. No matter how much effort it put into its feet, it was unable to stand up.

Zhang Xuan had gone too far with his attacks previously, causing it to sustain severe injuries. As such, it was difficult for it to even stand up, much less serving as a mount.

"Elder Zhang Xuan, the Gold Alloyed Panther has sustained severe injuries. It has to recuperate for at least half a month before it is able to move around freely!" Yun Tao glanced at the Gold Alloyed Panther before speaking.

"Recuperate for half a month?"

Zhang Xuan frowned.

The reason he was heading over to the Beast Hall to rent an aerial savage beast was because he was pressed for time. After all, he didn't know when the poison aura would act up. His life was threatened as long as the poison aura remained within him.

It would be a great waste if he spent half a month here just for the sake of a savage beast he had no use for.

"You're an apprentice beast tamer. Do you have any ways to heal its injuries swiftly?"

Zhang Xuan turned to look at Yun Tao.

A human cultivator could hasten his recovery through consuming pills or circulating his zhenqi.

Savage beasts should possess similar abilities as well.

He didn't understand such things, but Yun Tao, as a potential beast tamer, should know of them.

"The physical constitution of a savage beast differs from that of a human's. However, the methods to hasten their recovery are similar. The first method is to use suitable herbs to forge a pill for the savage beast to consume. If the right pill is used, the savage beast should be able to make a complete recovery within two days!" Yun Tao pondered for a moment before saying.

"Two days?" Thinking that two days was also too long, Zhang Xuan shook his head. "What about the other methods?"

"That is the method for apothecaries, as well as the one most people resort to. The second method is a treatment method unique to beast tamers. Only an official beast tamer is capable of utilizing this method, and it is only useful for one's own tamed beast…."

Yun Tao glanced at Zhang Xuan.

Beast tamers had a unique method to treating their own tamed beast. This method required both the beast tamer and his tamed beast to practice a unique skill to boost their compatibility with one another. It would take at least half a year before the couple could utilize this method. Given how this fellow knew nothing about beast taming and his tamed beast had just submitted to him, it was impossible for him to utilize this method.

"The third method is for master teachers! Given how powerful this Gold Alloyed Panther is, it is likely to be at Pixue realm pinnacle. As long as you help it to reach Tongxuan realm, its injuries should recover in an instant."

After speaking of the second method, Yun Tao hesitated for a moment before proceeding ahead to talk of the third one.

There were only these three methods to swiftly heal a savage beast's injuries.

And each of them corresponded to the means of an apothecary, beast tamer, and master teacher respectively.

Any single one of those methods would be effective, but from the looks of it, it was impossible to utilize any single one of them now.

"Helping it reach Tongxuan realm would heal its injuries in an instant?" Zhang Xuan's eyes lit up.

For the first method, putting aside the fact he had no herbs now, Zhang Xuan thought that two days were too long a time to wait.

For the second method, given how Zhang Xuan knew nothing about beast taming at all, it was completely out of question.

As for the third method, given that Zhang Xuan possessed the Library of Heaven's Path, it was a simple feat for him to help someone achieve a breakthrough, be it human or beast.

Taking the Sky Shattering Lion for example, he had solved its trauma and raised its cultivation by a level to Tongxuan realm.

With the pleading of his grandson, Elder Shang intentionally cooked up a show to agonize Zhang Xuan, so he deserved to have his teaching license revoked. However, in order to resolve the mistakes of his previous self, Zhang Xuan had unintentionally pinned the blame of "intentional oppression of the other teachers" onto him, causing his reputation to fall into the gutter.

To make up for it, before his departure, he specially paid the Sky Shattering Lion a visit to solve its trauma.

With a Tongxuan realm savage beast guarding him, even though Elder Shang was stripped of his teaching license, he should be able to rise up once more.

In a way, this was Zhang Xuan's apology to him.

With this prior experience, Zhang Xuan knew that this method, which seemed to the others that it would be the most difficult of the three, was actually the easiest one for him.

So he turned to look at the Gold Alloyed Panther expectantly.

"Gold Alloyed Panther, try executing a battle technique… Cough cough, I mean, attack me!"

Back when that fellow attacked him, Zhang Xuan didn't try to peer into its flaws, and as a result, there wasn't a book compiled on it. To help it achieve a breakthrough, he had to understand its physical condition first.

"…"

Shen Bi Ru, Yun Tao, and the others stared at each other, dumbfounded.

What was this fellow trying to do?

Yun Tao already spoke of the three methods, yet, instead of choosing to go with any one of them, he asked the Gold Alloyed Panther to attack him….

Did he have a screw loose?

That fellow can't even stand up, yet you want it to attack you? Could it be that you hope to beat it up once more?

"Roar?"

The Gold Alloyed Panther was also stunned.

"Hurry up!"

Sensing its hesitation, Zhang Xuan urged it.

If that fellow didn't launch an attack, a book wouldn't be compiled. If so, Zhang Xuan wouldn't know what was wrong with it and he wouldn't be able to help it achieve a breakthrough.

"Roar!"

The Gold Alloyed Panther lowered its head.

Putting aside how it didn't dare to attack its owner, it didn't have the strength to do so either!

He couldn't even stand up straight, how could he attack?

"When I told you to stop just now, you continued charging at me. Now that I'm telling you to attack me, you hesitate!"

Seeing how that fellow was behaving as docile as a small kitten, Zhang Xuan was speechless.

When I told you go for Yun Tao instead, you kept charging toward me. Now, you're acting like this….

In the end, you're still a savage beast. Seems like it's impossible to reason with you.

Forget it, I'll do it myself then!

Shaking his head, Zhang Xuan walked up to the Gold Alloyed Panther and smiled compassionately. "You don't have to be anxious. Lift your head…."

The Gold Alloyed Panther raised its giant head up.

The others also turned their attention to them, curious to see what he was up to.

"Yep, right, just like that…."

Upon seeing the savage beast obediently lift its head, Zhang Xuan stretched his hands and pah! He struck the back of its neck.

"Roar?"

Not expecting its master to beat it even though it has already submitted to him, the Gold Alloyed Panther roared in resentment. Then its massive body swayed and it collapsed onto the ground, unconscious.

"What?"

The others stared at one another in so much shock that they were about to faint.

This is your tamed beast! Furthermore… I thought that you are going to treat it? Why are you knocking it out?

Ignoring the reaction of the others, Zhang Xuan placed his palm on the beast's body.

Weng!

A book appeared in the library.

Reading through it swiftly, Zhang Xuan nodded his head in satisfaction. He then turned to Yun Tao and asked, "That… it has fainted. How do I wake it up?"

"…"

Yun Tao and the others felt they were going insane.

When you asked about the methods to heal a savage beast swiftly, we all thought that you are going to treat it. Yet, contrary to our expectations, you struck it unconscious.

Now that everyone is trying to figure out what you're up to, you want to wake it up….

Brother, can your actions be any more irrational?

What in the world are you up to? We're utterly stumped by your actions!

"What? You don't have any ideas?" Zhang Xuan frowned.

"I do, I do!"

Stifling the urge to pull out his hair, Yun Tao hurriedly walked forward.

He was well aware of the habits of the Gold Alloyed Panther. Pressing his finger on an acupoint, the huge fellow soon slowly roused from its rest.

"Roar…"

Upon seeing Zhang Xuan, the eyelids of the conscious Gold Alloyed Panther twitched. It was on the verge of tears.

"There's no need to look at me like that. Let me ask you, do you want to recover from your injuries instantly? Also, do you wish to reach Tongxuan realm?" Ignoring the resentful expression of the other party, Zhang Xuan said, "If you wish to, let's get on with it. Otherwise, I'll leave right now. You can remain as king of the mountain, and we'll treat it as though you have never submitted to me!"

If this fellow couldn't recover from his injuries swiftly, it would be of no use to Zhang Xuan. If so, there was no need for Zhang Xuan to waste his time on it.

"Roar!"

Even though it was hesitant, the Gold Alloyed Panther eventually nodded its head.

"It's good that you've agreed!"

Nodding in approval, Zhang Xuan walked over to the Gold Alloyed Panther. Then, he sent a palm strike straight at its massive body.

Pah pah pah pah pah!

The sound echoed thirty-six times consecutively, and every single strike struck the acupoints of the Gold Alloyed Panther accurately. At the same time, pure zhenqi seeped into its body and flow through its meridians.

"This…"

Other people might be confused by Zhang Xuan's actions, but as a potential beast tamer, Yun Tao could tell what Zhang Xuan was doing with a single sight!

"I thought he didn't know anything about beast taming at all? How is he able to strike the acupoints on the Gold Alloyed Panther so accurately?"

Jaw dropping, Yun Tao trembled in astonishment.

The physique of a physical beast was completely different from that of a human's. Naturally, their cultivation methods were different as well. Logically speaking, it was impossible for a person who knew nothing about beast taming to locate the acupoints on the body of a savage beast. In fact, it would be an incredible feat if they could fathom the rough locations of those acupoints in its body.

After the various incidents before, he knew that the person before him was completely ignorant of the art of beast taming. Yet… despite his ignorance, all of his seemingly casual strikes struck the acupoints of the savage beast without the slightest deviation!

What in the world was going on?

Furthermore... what was he hoping to do striking those acupoints?

Could it be that he was really trying to help the beast reach… Tongxuan realm?

Seriously?

That's something that even an official beast tamer would find hard to achieve.

While he was immersed in shock, Zhang Xuan finished striking all of the acupoints. At this moment, the pure zhenqi he had injected into the body of the Gold Alloyed Panther was flowing unbridled through its widened meridians.

Hu!

Coming to a stop, Zhang Xuan wiped the beads of perspiration off his forehead.

Raising the cultivation of a savage beast was completely different from raising a human's.

Due to the enormous size of the Gold Alloyed Panther, the zhenqi it required for its breakthrough was multiple times that of a human cultivator. If not for the fact that Zhang Xuan cultivated the Heaven's Path Divine Art and his zhenqi was pure, Zhang Xuan would probably have been sapped dry of his zhenqi and collapsed onto the floor due to exhaustion before he could raise the other party's cultivation.

Even so, he expended a huge portion of his zhenqi and was slightly worn out.

Crick! Crack!

A crisp sound similar to that of beans popping echoed from the body of the Gold Alloyed Panther.

Under normal circumstances, the strength of a savage beast was determined by its race and its talents. Unless its bloodline evolved, it was difficult for it to raise its cultivation.

After all, even though they possessed intelligence surpassing that of ordinary animals, they were still inferior to human intellect, and they couldn't practice cultivation techniques either.

This was precisely the reason why even official beast tamers would find it difficult to raise the cultivation of their tamed beasts.

However… Zhang Xuan was different. The only difference that a high-tier savage beast had was its pure bloodline. The Heaven's Path zhenqi within Zhang Xuan's body was capable of washing one's meridians and cleansing the impurities in one's bloodline, raising the purity.

As the impurities in the bloodline reduced, the limiter on the savage beast would be released. Naturally, its cultivation realm would be raised as well.

Boom!

The crisp sound didn't last for long. Soon, the body of the Gold Alloyed Panther inflated like a balloon, and it swiftly grew larger. From its previous length of four meters, it grew to around six or seven meters. At the same time, the aura emanated by the savage beast changed tremendously. It clearly grew stronger and even more fearsome.

Deng deng deng!

The pressure it emitted made Yun Tao and the others rapidly retreat with pale faces.

"This…"

It was clear that the fellow before them had achieved a breakthrough!

With just a few random slaps, the Gold Alloyed Panther reached Tongxuan realm?

Yun Tao felt himself grow lightheaded. The sight before him was simply too incredulous.

After staying in the Beast Hall for a significant period of time, he knew how difficult it was for a savage beast's bloodline to evolve.

Even a 2-star beast tamer, without years of effort, would be unable to accomplish such a task!

Yet, the fellow before him… was able to achieve this feat in just a few breaths?

What in the world was going on?

Yun Tao wasn't the only one. Shen Bi Ru's eyes were also completely widened in shock.

She knew that Zhang laoshi would do something completely unexpected. Even so, the sight before her still made her doubt her vision…. His actions was beyond her expectations.

To induce a breakthrough in the Gold Alloyed Panther so casually….

Even the average master teacher wouldn't be capable of such a feat!

What in the world did this fellow learn from Yang shi?

Hu!

Amid everyone's astounded gazes, the Gold Alloyed Panther successfully completed the evolution of its bloodline. At the same time, its strength stabilized at Tongxuan realm primary stage.

Roar!

With its strength raised, the injuries it sustained previously also recovered. Standing up, it roared ferociously, shaking the heavens.

After which, the towering Gold Alloyed Panther walked over to Zhang Xuan and laid down. At this moment, its eyes were filled with admiration and affection, and the resentment it felt previously had vanished completely.

When Zhang Xuan struck it unconsciously previously, it was pondering whether it had chosen the wrong person to follow. But now, it realized that its master was a person of incredible means.

This time, it was submitting to him with utmost sincerity.

"Since you have achieved a breakthrough, let's set off!"

With a leap, Zhang Xuan sat on the back of Gold Alloyed Panther and gestured for Shen Bi Ru to climb on as well. Then the duo continued heading toward the Beast Hall.

.

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Chapter 239: Strange Bird [2 in 1]

Translator: StarveCleric Editor: - -

"Elder Zhang Xuan…"

Upon seeing the couple leaving, Yun Tao hurried forward.

"We're heading for the Beast Hall, so we won't bother you in your taming of a savage beast. Farewell!" Zhang Xuan waved his hand.

They were strangers, and the reason why Zhang Xuan had waited here previously was for fear of ruining the other party's situation. Now that the Gold Alloyed Panther had been tamed, there was no longer any need for Zhang Xuan to remain here.

"Taming a savage beast…"

Yun Tao nearly burst into tears.

There was a time limit to the beast tamer examination, and tracking down this Gold Alloyed Panther had nearly used up all of his time. Even if he wanted to tame another savage beast, he had to be able to find one first…. Besides, even if he did find one, given how his formation was ineffective, his survivability was the problem, let alone actually taming the savage beast.

"Senior, may I consult you on a matter?"

Quelling his gloom, Yun Tao clasped his hands.

"Hm?" Zhang Xuan glanced over.

"Just now… how were you able to tell that there was a problem with the setup of my formation, and that it wouldn't be able to trap the Gold Alloyed Panther?" Yun Tao asked.

He wasn't the only one who was curious about this. The eyes of the others also fell upon Zhang Xuan, and even Shen Bi Ru's eyes sparkled with curiosity.

Based on his actions and words, the fellow before him was definitely a complete amateur at formations. Thus, it was inconceivable how he could see a flaw in it immediately.

"That's simple!" Without hiding anything, Zhang Xuan explained, "The Green Wood Formation is built using formation flags made of the spotted laurel, and requires the wood element to sustain the formation. The location you chose is lush with trees and shrubs, and is aligned with the conditions required for the formation. There also weren't any errors in your setup. However, you neglected a single detail!"

"Senior, please enlighten me!"

After musing for a while, Yun Tao couldn't tell what was wrong with his formation. As a result, he asked with earnestness.

"The mountain range we stand upon!" Zhang Xuan lifted his head to look at the various mountains in the distance, his expression carefree.

"Mountain range?"

Yun Tao was even more confused.

What was wrong with this mountain range?

When he bought this Green Wood Formation, he had tried setting it up once and there was no problem at all! Even a Tongxuan realm primary stage expert would find it difficult to overcome this formation.

"The mountain range extends from the north to the south, and is imposing and staunch. The airstream sinks and doesn't move. The plants that grow on land where soil lacks nutrients have a yellow tint, and the ridges along the mountain range have a slight shade of red…"

Sitting on the back of the Gold Alloyed Panther, Zhang Xuan pointed around to the various signs. "From this, you can tell that there is a metal deposit beneath the mountain! Of the five elements, metal opposes wood. As such, the Confinement Formation has been opposed by the metal element below, so how could it exert its full might?"

"This…"

Yun Tao trembled.

His teacher had once taught him that one shouldn't just focus on the geographical terrains. More importantly, he should borrow the strength of the environment, the might of the heavens, and even the power from the stars, harboring them within his formations.

Back then, those words sounded ridiculous to him. Yet, at this moment, he realized that… it was all true!

To be able to tell that there was a metal deposit just from the ridges and the direction the mountains extended, and deduce that it affected the Green Wood Confinement Formation… What kind of discernment aptitude was that?

Even a 3-star formation master would be hard-pressed to perform such a feat.

To think that he was bragging in front such a person a moment ago, even asking the other party if he could even understand the formation….

Yun Tao felt a burning sensation on his face.

He wasn't the only one shocked. Also seated on the Gold Alloyed Panther, Shen Bi Ru's mouth twitched and she nearly fainted from surprise.

Brother, didn't you know nothing about formations just a moment ago?

Why were you able to talk about metal deposits, ridges, airstream, and whatever else in the blink of an eye?

Do you have to be so incredible?

She felt that it was laughable how she thought that Zhang Xuan was spouting nonsense a moment ago….

"This guy…"

Recalling her previous experiences, Shen Bi Ru felt helpless.

Common sense truly didn't apply to this fellow. If she continued to stick fast to common sense, it would just be a matter of time before she was shocked to death.

"I will stop here. If there's nothing else, I'll be taking my leave!"

After explaining the faults with the formation, Zhang Xuan waved and left.

"Senior, since there isn't sufficient time to capture a savage beast now, I would like to return to the Beast Hall along with you. Is that fine by you?"

Since his examination was already a lost cause, he chose to throw it aside altogether and strike up a connection with the expert before him instead.

Regardless of his strength, his previous means to induce a breakthrough in a savage beast, or his understanding of formations, this Elder Zhang Xuan seemed to be a person with great ability. So Yun Tao deemed it beneficial for him to establish a relationship with him.

"The Gold Alloyed Panther is swift. If you can keep up, feel free to do so!"

Even though the prince was a braggart, he was a person with true capabilities. Furthermore, he was an apprentice beast tamer. With his guidance, it should be easier to find a good aerial savage beast, allowing them to reach Tianwu Kingdom faster and smoother.

However, it was already cramped for two people to ride the Gold Alloyed Panther. It would be impossible to house any more people.

"Thank you, senior!" Upon seeing him agree to it, Yun Tao heaved a sigh of relief.

"Let's go!"

Zhang Xuan instructed the Gold Alloyed Panther, and it started dashing swiftly forward.

Even when it was at Pixue realm, the Gold Alloyed Panther had possessed incredible speed. At this moment, it was no different from a swift steed. Even though the terrain of the mountain forest was rugged and littered with obstacles, there simply weren't any signs of it slowing down.

Initially, Yun Tao and company could still keep up. However, as time went on, the rate at which their zhenqi was being sapped increased as their faces turned pale. They were so exhausted from running that they were about to spit out blood.

"Let's rest for a while!"

After around two hours, seeing that the others were completely exhausted, Zhang Xuan and Shen Bi Ru leapt from the back of the Gold Alloyed Panther.

Initially, if the duo proceeded to the Beast Hall by foot, it would take at least an entire day. However, with this fellow, they would reach in at most another two hours, so they were no longer in a rush.

"Senior!"

Knowing that the other party was stopping for their sake, Yun Tao heaved a sigh of relief. After resting for a moment and recovering a slight bit of his stamina, he walked forward and greeted Zhang Xuan respectfully.

"Given that I have tamed the Gold Alloyed Panther, does it mean that you have failed your beast tamer exam?"

Along the way, Zhang Xuan gave the matter some thought. Yun Tao and the others had pursued this Gold Alloyed Panther for several days, only for the prize to land in Zhang Xuan's lap. While the savage beast wasn't a huge deal, the beast tamer examination was. With this, Yun Tao would likely fail the examination.

"This…" Yun Tao replied awkwardly, "If not for elder taming the Gold Alloyed Panther, we might all have died on the spot. Compared to our lives, the exam means nothing at all!"

Zhang Xuan nodded his head.

While the fellow might be narcissistic, he was rational.

It was impossible for the Green Wood Confinement Formation to trap the Gold Alloyed Panther. If Zhang Xuan hadn't been there, given the strength of Yun Tao and his Pixue realm subordinates, they would have died for sure. Even though Zhang Xuan had taken the Gold Alloyed Panther out of their hands, he had also saved their lives.

"What are the tests required for the beast tamer exam?"

After riding on the Gold Alloyed Panther, Zhang Xuan understood the convenience of having a savage beast as a mount. If he could become an official beast tamer, it would be convenient for him to travel long distances in the future.

If Yun Tao could hear his thoughts, he would definitely spew blood.

For the beast tamer examination, he had lived alongside savage beasts for many years in order to study from them. Even so, he had yet to pass the examination. On the other hand, this fellow wanted to take the examination just because he felt that it was tiring to walk on foot….

"First, one has to become an apprentice beast tamer. There are two parts to the apprentice examination: Theoretical Paper and Savage Beast Distinguishing. Only after passing these two will you be qualified to take the beast tamer exam. Similarly, there are also two parts to the beast tamer exam. First, you have to gain the recognition of a savage beast. Second, you have to tame a savage beast," Yun Tao explained.

"Gain the recognition of a savage beast?"

"Yeah. The examinee will be placed in an enclosure with five savage beasts. Within two hours, the examinee has to gain their approval and stop them from attacking him. If you can't do so, it only means that you don't have a good understanding of savage beasts! Also, there's a requirement for the tamed savage beast. Its cultivation realm has to be higher than the examinee's."

Yun Tao explained, "Otherwise, if the savage beast is too weak, one could use brute force to coerce its submission. If so, it would be impossible to determine whether the examinee has the true skills to become a beast tamer."

Zhang Xuan nodded.

The beast tamer examination was similar to the apothecary examination.

To become an apprentice, one had to possess sufficient theoretical knowledge. And to become an official member, one had to possess practical skills.

For the latter, one had to forge a tier-1 pill. As for the former, one had to tame a stronger savage beast.

It was no wonder why Yun Tao was pursuing this Gold Alloyed Panther. At Dingli realm pinnacle, the latter was an entire cultivation realm higher than him and fulfilled the prerequisites of the examination. Once he succeeded in taming it, he would pass the examination.

"There is a time limit of half a month to the taming of the savage beast. Just looking for this Gold Alloyed Panther has already taken me more than ten days. It is impossible for me to find another one right now. Besides, if I met one that was even fiercer than this Gold Alloyed Panther, I might even lose my life…."

Yun Tao had managed to let it go.

It was all thanks to the youngster before him that he was able to survive this ordeal. He might not be as lucky the next time.

It seemed that he would have to make thorough preparations the next time he took the examination, such that all precautions were in place.

Otherwise, if he died before becoming an official beast tamer, it would be too late for him to cry about it.

In fact, there were numerous apprentices who died at the hands of the savage beasts every year while taking the beast tamer examination.

"It's good that you are willing to let it go. However… no matter what, I feel partly responsible for it. How about this: if you wish to tame another savage beast, I can give you a helping hand!" Zhang Xuan said.

More importantly, he was interested in seeing how someone could tame a savage beast that was stronger than the tamer.

After the affair with the Gold Alloyed Panther, Zhang Xuan knew that it would be difficult to build camaraderie with a savage beast if it didn't admit defeat willingly, let alone taming it.

Even if not used for taking the beast tamer examination, the art of beast taming would prove useful in his future journeys.

After all, he couldn't possibly be so lucky as to happen to meet a savage beast weaker than him and that submitted easily.

What if he encountered a strong one?

Therefore, he wished to make use of this opportunity to see how this fellow would go about it in order to steal his skills.

Of course, he wouldn't say these words out loud. Otherwise, wouldn't the image of a "senior" he had built with great difficulty crumble in an instant?

Having disguised himself as Yang shi, he understood that the identity of a "senior" would make it easy to resolve many issues.

However, it carried risks as well. Once exposed, he would likely be pummeled to death.

"Senior… is willing to help me?"

Hearing his words, Yun Tao immediately trembled in excitement.

He had witnessed the strength of Elder Zhang Xuan for himself. If he were to lend a helping hand, capturing a Pixue realm savage beast would definitely be an easy feat. As long as the savage beast was captured, he had his owns means to tame it.

"Yeah!" Zhang Xuan nodded his head with the look of an expert.

"That's great! As long as Senior is willing to help me, I will definitely succeed…"

Balling his hands into fists, Yun Tao's eyes reddened in excitement.

"Calm down first. Even if I did help you, can you find a suitable savage beast first?" Zhang Xuan asked.

"A suitable savage beast…"

Yun Tao immediately puckered his face.

He had already taken more than ten days to find a Pixue realm Gold Alloyed Panther. Even if the other party had agreed to help him, it was useless if he wasn't able to find another suitable savage beast.

"Your Highness, have you forgotten about that?"

A subordinate stepped forward.

"That?" Yun Tao was perplexed.

"The one who comes by daily to cause trouble," the subordinate said.

"That thing?" Seemingly recalling something, embarrassment appeared on Yun Tao's face.

"It's too late to find any other savage beast. Your Highness, if you can capture and tame that fellow, you will pass the exam. Right now, the priority is to pass the beast tamer exam. We can talk about taming other savage beasts in the future!" the subordinate persuaded.

"This…" Yun Tao hesitated for a moment before turning to Zhang Xuan. "Elder, there is indeed a suitable savage beast. I will require your help in this matter."

"Oh?" Zhang Xuan stared at Yun Tao curiously.

"It's a… strange bird!" Yun Tao said.

"An aerial savage beast?"

Given that Yun Tao was a Dingli realm pinnacle cultivator, and since the savage beast he had to tame had to be a cultivation realm higher than his, the savage beast he was speaking of had to be Pixue realm. On top of that, given that it was a bird, Yun Tao was probably asking him to capture an aerial savage beast for him.

All of the aerial savage beasts Zhang Xuan had passed by in the Xuanluo Mountain Range were soaring in the skies several thousand meters above them. Even if Zhang Xuan intended to capture them, he was helpless.

"It can't be considered an aerial savage beast. It is quite small in size, about… the size of a palm!" Yun Tao's face reddened.

"The size of a palm?" Zhang Xuan was taken aback.

Based on Shen Bi Ru's descriptions, Zhang Xuan knew that aerial savage beasts were around several zhang long, and their wings were two to three zhang wide. Only with such size could they possess sufficient strength to carry a human to the skies.

To be the size of a palm… Indeed, it couldn't be considered an aerial savage beast. At best it was a canary.

"Even though that thing is small, it is a savage beast. Furthermore, its strength has reached Pixue realm primary stage, so its cultivation realm is slightly higher than mine…. It's just that its physique isn't suited for battle, so it isn't a match for me. However, it possesses incredible speed and is impossible to catch up to!" Yun Tao explained in detail.

"Small but fast? Even if you want to tame it, it probably won't be easy to find it!" Zhang Xuan frowned.

Even a large and slow savage beast was hard to find. A palm-sized, flying-type savage beast possessing tremendous speed could be hiding anywhere in this vast forest. How could they possibly find it!

Furthermore, it could freely fly about in the sky…. It was probably even harder to tame than the Gold Alloyed Panther.

Upon hearing those words, Yun Tao felt a little sheepish. "It is hard to find it, but for the past few days, that fellow has been pestering us. Even if we don't take the initiative to look for it, it will come to look for us on its own."

"Pester?"

Zhang Xuan was puzzled. Even though he didn't have much of an understanding of savage beasts, he knew that they were guarded around humans. If a savage beast realized it wasn't a match for its opponent, it would immediately run away as far as possible. If so, why would it pester them every day?

"This… I happened to smash its nest. Infuriated, that fellow has been coming to harass us every day…."

Yun Tao quickly explained the situation to Zhang Xuan.

After hearing the story, Zhang Xuan shook his head, unsure of whether he should sympathize with Yun Tao or burst out laughing.

This strange bird apparently liked to consume the wild honey of the mountain forest. Unaware of this fact, Yun Tao stumbled upon its nest and took away its collection of honey. That little fellow had probably been saving up for many years before being able to collect such a huge stockpile. Upon realizing that someone had stolen its treasure, it flew into a rage and chased the group.

However, due to its small physique, it wasn't suited for battle, so it wasn't a match for Yun Tao and his subordinates. Unable to take back its property, it had been trailing behind the group's back. At a fixed time, it would charge in and wreak havoc.

This was now the eighth day. Looking at the time, it was roughly the time for its entry.

"That fellow seems pretty persistent…." After learning of the grudge between the bird and the man, Zhang Xuan chuckled.

"How does it wreak havoc?" Shen Bi Ru asked, curious.

Since it would charge in to cause trouble at a fixed interval, given the number of Pixue realm experts they had here, couldn't they find some way to capture it?

"It…" Yun Tao's face turned as red as an apple. He coughed. "It poops when it is directly above me…."

"Eh?"

Zhang Xuan and Shen Bi Ru stared at one another. They almost failed to contain their laughter.

It had to be said. This bird was truly eccentric.

"It always gets me, every time. After doing so, it flies several dozens of meters away to provoke us. By the time we catch up with it, it has already flown far away. Every day it torments us like that for two to four hours…."

Yun Tao was honestly speechless with the actions of this strange bird.

He had only stolen its honey, yet it was tormenting him every day to the point that he was already on the verge of insanity.

If not for his desire to pass the beast tamer examination, he would have never revealed it to Zhang Xuan. After all, it was very embarrassing.

For the great seventh prince of Hanwu Kingdom to be treated as a toilet by a strange bird, flying by the moment it felt an urge….

Just thinking about it drove him crazy.

"Why don't you just return the honey?" asked Shen Bi Ru, her hand over her mouth.

"Eventually, I returned its honey to it. Yet, that fellow… still comes to harass me every day! It is too fast to be struck by our arrows, so I was preparing something for it after I finished taming the Gold Alloyed Panther. However, since I've failed to tame the Gold Alloyed Panther, I can use that bird for my exam instead!"

At this point, Yun Tao hesitated for a moment. "Just… that fellow is way too fast. Even an arrow can't outpace it. Capturing it… is simply too difficult. Does Eder have anything in mind?"

"I don't even know the appearance of that fellow or its speed. Even if you ask me now, what kind of plan can I come up with?" Zhang Xuan shook his head.

He had never even seen this strange bird before, so how could he formulate a plan to capture it?

"Ah, right! Didn't he say that whenever the strange bird comes over to wreak havoc, it flies a dozen of meters forward to taunt them? At that moment, it would be near the ground. You can use your movement technique to dash forward to capture it!"

Shen Bi Ru suddenly thought of something and turned to look at Zhang Xuan.

She had seen Wang Ying's movement technique, and the speed of her movements was almost equivalent to teleportation. No matter how fast that bird was, it shouldn't pose a huge problem to Zhang laoshi.

"Yeah, I can consider that…"

Zhang Xuan nodded.

After his cultivation reached Tongxuan realm, the distance and number of times he could execute the Heaven's Path Movement Art increased once more.

In the past, when he used the full might of the technique, he was able to travel twenty meters in a tenth of a breath. But now, in the same amount of time, he was able to travel forty meters.

Furthermore, compared to the past when he was only able to execute the technique once, he was able to execute it twice now.

Of course, this was when he was using the complete version. If he used the simplified one which he imparted to Wang Ying, given the amount of zhenqi he possessed, executing it twenty to thirty times wasn't even a problem.

Just, his speed would decrease significantly.

With the complete version, Zhang Xuan was able to leap forty meters in a tenth of the breath. On the other hand, with the simplified version, Zhang Xuan could only cover three to four meters. Furthermore, the burden the simplified technique had on his body was significantly lower. This was precisely the reason why Wang Ying was able to execute the technique six times in the battle with Du Lei before she felt drained.

Even so, it was still an extremely fearsome technique.

Covering three to four meters in a tenth of a breath, most people would be struck before they could react.

That bird might be fast, but it was only Pixue realm. It would definitely be unable to match up to the Heaven's Path Divine Art.

"You wish to depend on movement technique? I'm afraid that it would be difficult to do so…"

Hearing the conversation of the two, Yun Tao shook his head.

Even the most profound movement technique of their Hanwu Kingdom, [Tortoise Firmament Sonic Steps], at its top speed, was unable to match up with that strange bird.

Furthermore, there was a limit to a person's attention as well. Since Elder Zhang Xuan seemed to specialize in strength-based assault, speed was likely to be his fatal flaw. Even if he possessed a formidable movement technique, it would still be difficult for him to keep up with the strange bird. Besides, given that the other party came from Tianxuan Kingdom, what kind of formidable movement techniques could he know of?

Based on his knowledge, the kingdom's most powerful movement technique was [Illusory Shadows Nine Celestial Steps], and the technique paled far in comparison against the Tortoise Firmament Sonic Steps.

Since even executing the latter technique was insufficient to keep up with the bird, the former was out of question.

Thus, Yun Tao continued, "That strange bird is extremely wary of its surroundings. It often stays a suitable distance away so that it has time to react to abrupt changes. Given that even arrows are unable to hit it, catching it bare-handed is a nigh impossible task. I think we should make a trap similar to the one from before. Perhaps… we might stand a chance like that!"

"We have tried setting up traps before, but none of them worked!" a subordinate mentioned.

Upon hearing those words, Yun Tao nodded his head helplessly. "Indeed, we have set several traps for it in the past, but they never worked. The strange bird seems to know of the preparations we have made beforehand. Regardless of what we did, it refused to fall for our traps…."

Wuwuwu!

Before he could finish speaking, the whistling of the wind echoed from the on high. Something seemed to be whizzing through the sky, heading straight for Yun Tao's head.

"It's here!"

Upon hearing the sound of the wind, Yun Tao's complexion turned awful. Knowing that the strange bird was here, he didn't even bother lifting his head and dodged to the side immediately.

Padah!

However… he had barely taken a few steps when a stench assaulted his nose. His entire body was drenched with slimy white spots.

Without even looking, he knew that he had fallen for the bird's tricks yet again!

Smelling the stench on him, Yun Tao was on the verge of tears. Turning his head to take a look, he realized that what that had fallen where he was standing before was just a rock.

Seemingly aware that Yun Tao would dodge, the bird threw a rock first to distract him.

"This fellow is capable of strategizing?"

Upon seeing the sight, Zhang Xuan was stunned.

After hearing the story, he only thought that the strange bird was vindictive. To think that it would be this smart as well.

It was completely different from the reckless Gold Alloyed Panther.

Lifting his head to take a look, a small flying bird appeared in his sight. Just like Yun Tao said, it was barely larger than a palm. Its entire body was dyed black and its appearance was reminiscent of a crow. It carried along with it a sharp aura similar to a Pixue realm expert's.

There were many different sizes to savage beasts. Since there were beasts as huge as the Gold Alloyed Panther, there would naturally be small ones as well.

Having struck Yun Tao accurately, the strange bird was gleeful. "Caw caw!" it called before flying to around a distance of thirty meters ahead of everyone. Its beady eyes stared at the group, as though mocking everyone.

"Damn bird…"

Even though Yun Tao was infuriated at being done in by the bird again, he felt more dismay than anger.

The fellow came before they could come up with a concrete plan. Thus, it was unlikely that they could capture it today.

While he felt conflicted over the next course of action he should take, his vision suddenly blurred. A figure abruptly appeared before the strange bird, and with a pinch of his thumb and forefinger, whoosh, the swift bird was caught in the figure's hand before it could even react.

"This… is a movement technique? How is this possible?"

Yun Tao froze.

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