"Hssss!"
The crowd inhaled a breath of cold air!
Composing a poem on the spot was young master Mo’s expertise!
Someone then shouted out, "I’ve heard that young master Mo managed to compose a poem in just ten steps for the Fire Emperor. Do we have the fortunes of seeing such a skill?"
Everyone started to reveal cheers of joy and anticipation.
Most of them had heard of young master Mo’s ten step poem before the Fire Nation's Emperor. If they manage to hear young master Mo compose a poem in ten steps once again, it would be a historical moment for everyone!
Once the poem was completed, it would also be a poem that would be recorded in the books of history.
Besides, young master Mo’s talents in poem are undoubted. In fact, he was so good in poetry that he was the unrivalled Poem King within Fire Nations. Anyone who could witness his ‘ten steps poem’ would be deemed to be extremely fortunate.
Madam Ya was rather astonished as well. In previous banquets, the crowd would come up with their own topics of discussion, since they would have made preparations before coming and allow others to enjoy their work. Today, young master Mo requested for her to give a topic. He clearly wanted to win some of his pride and dignity back.
Although Madam Ya felt that agreeing in this wouldn’t be fair to Xu Que, she badly wanted to witness young master Mo’s ten step poem as well.
"Regardless of whatever topic Madam Ya gives, I will be able to complete a full poem within ten steps!" Young master Mo stood up, as he readied himself. His eyes were focused as he smiled and looked at Madam Ya.
Complete a full poem within ten steps!
Madam Ya was so excited by these words that her heart was hammering in her chest. Such confidence and exquisite talents caused her to go in a daze!
For a student to compose a good poem was the ultimate test of how brilliant and knowledgeable he was. If he wasn’t the best student or the most talented, how will he ever dare to speak such big words to promise a complete poem within ten steps?
Hence, Madam Ya replied, "Alright. Since young mister Mo’s so full of confidence, I shall come up with a topic!"
As she finished, she turned her head back to look at her surroundings before looking at the sky.
At this point, the sky was gradually turning dark as if it was about to rain anytime soon!
Madam Ya smiled gently as she spoke, "Since we’re right on the brink of spring, everyone can look out and see that the clouds are dense and thick. Maybe we shall receive our first spring rain today. Let’s have spring rain as the topic. What do you think?"
Spring rain?
When the students heard this, their eyes gleamed. This wasn’t very hard!
However, even though this wasn’t a difficult topic, it would be rather hard to compose a poem within ten steps!
To most of the students present, writing a poem would always have the comfort of their own homes. They would rack their brains and think for hours on end before they produce a work that’s average at best. For someone to do it in within ten steps was practically impossible to them.
Xu Que was still standing by the side when he heard the topic of ‘spring rain’ and was elated.
Hehe... spring rain? Within my book of 300 Tang Poems, most of them can be linked to this topic. Besides, each and every poem in this book is a work of genius!
Even before Madam Ya could finish speaking her sentence, Mo Yun Shang walked out.
When he took his first step, everyone’s expression was one of surprise.
"How... How is this possible?"
"Doesn’t he even need to think?"
Even Madam Ya reacted to this in amazement. As soon as he heard the topic, he could immediately compose a poem. That was amazing. It’s no wonder he’s referred to as Poem King!
Mo Yun Shang’s eyes exuded immense confidence in his own abilities as endearing dimples were able to capture the hearts of those who heard him. Mo Yun Shan reared his head up before taking his second step, "The spring rains are as fine as dust."
Soon after, he took his third step, "While the willow trees outside, a brilliant shade of yellow."
Even before the audience could ponder over his words, he took another step forward and recited the fourth line, "Curtains entwined with the gentle wind."
He was down to his last line. Everyone held their breaths in nervous anticipation as they watched his feet. He had three steps to go. Could he complete the poem within three steps?
Indeed, the contented look on Mo Yun Shang’s face indicated that he was more than confident of achieving such a feat. He took a deep breath before finishing his last three steps. He then spoke loudly, "As the satin cloths sway in the mild breeze."
He took a total of ten steps and delivered such an amazing poem!
Clap clap clap clap…
The audience were filled with astonishment and were clearly impressed!
The sounds of applause were almost deafening.
"Great poem! What a great poem!"
"Indeed, he’s the Poem King. He could compose a brilliant poem from scratch within just ten steps.
"The spring rains are as fine as dust, while the willow trees outside, a brilliant shade of yellow. Indeed, that is the scenery we get to view at this very moment across the great lake!"
"It’s hard to imagine how talented young master Mo is. Even before the first drops of rain had descended, he’s already painted a beautiful picture of spring in our imaginations that is so lifelike!"
Several students voiced out their opinions and were filled with respect.
Tang Liu Feng was sighing as well, "The title of Poem King is indeed not in vain. Today, my eyes have been treated to a sumptuous experience!"
Madam Ya was mildly trembling as her eyes twinkled in delight. She sighed, "Young mister Mo’s poem is indeed the best poem to describe spring rain!"
"Pu!" Xu Que spat out an entire mouthful of tea on the floor, as his face contorted in disgust.
Fuck, how could this be considered ‘best poem’? Are you trying to tease me?
Indeed, when he spat out tea, he had attracted the attention of everyone again.
Mo Yun Shan turned around and glared at him, his eyes emanated an icy stare and laughed coldly, "What? Could it be that Brother Li despises my poem?"
"Gulp… It’s alright, but it isn’t even worth my despise!" Xu Que wiped away some tea water on his lips and laughed dryly.
As soon as this words were spoken, the crowd’s lips puckered in disgust.
It isn’t even worth his despise?
Fuck me! Big brother, you’re bragging a little too much here right?
The quality of this poem could even be the best in Fire Nation! And he even composed it all within ten steps. With the amount of talent it took to produce something like that, you even say that it’s not worth your despise?"
Mo Yun Shang couldn’t bear it any longer and burst out, "Since that’s the case, I wonder if brother Li has a better piece of work?"
"Me? Of course I do. Are you sure you wish to hear it?" Xu Que blinked several times as his heart roared with happiness. This humble subject didn’t wish to act tough, but you forced me to. I shall oblige you. Looks like sometimes, even when I don’t wish to act tough, the career catches me off guard! So, don’t blame me for putting on a good show!
The crowd looked at his face and had to suppress the inner urge to rush forward and beat his stinking face. Their hearts were filled with disgust and repulse for him.
A student then cleared his throat, "Young master Mo composed his poem in ten steps. If you can really compose a poem, it still won't mean that you’re more talented than him!"
"Hehe… did you say ten steps?" Xu Que laughed coldly before shaking his head, "To me, that poem was utter trash!"
"You… What did you say?"
"The audacity! How outrageous! You dare to lose your mannerisms and speak in such a way!"
"If a ten step poem is too easy for you, are you going to compose a poem in seven steps?"
The crowd was enraged when they heard this and that Mo Yun Shan was truly being treated unjustifiably.
The ten steps poem was extremely difficult and he even managed to compose such a high quality poem, but you actually called it trash?
"Boom!"
Xu Que slammed the tea cup heavily on the table, as he smiled out, "Seven steps poem? What’s the big deal with that? But I have to apologize. This humble subject won’t just compose one poem in ten steps. Instead… I shall compose ten poems in ten steps!"


I am the best when it comes to taking divergent paths. With just a flip of my hand, I shall take the path less commonly travelled. I search far and wide, only to find myself unbeatable and unrivaled. So now I ask, who else can match my awesomeness? 

Acting tough is second nature to me and I am a lone wolf.
 
The road is long and winding but I shan’t feel lonely as long as I am able to act tough!


Life and death bore me and I do whatever I deem fit.

“Young man, way back when I started acting tough, you were still learning how to put on your underpants!” Xu Que thus decided to take the path of acting tough. He decided to act tough every single god-damned day. If he wasn’t acting tough, he was scheming for the best way to act tough!  

　　 When not in class, Xiao Rui has the vigor of a chicken and the power of a dog, so he can get up to see the scenery before the sun rises. It is a pity that once the day comes to class, I want to hide in the bed and let the bed strangle myself to death.
 　　 "Gao Quan, save me! I am entangled in the quilt."
　　 "Would you like to ask for a leave for me? Just say that I fight with the quilt and both lose?"
　　 "Who can help me! Ah..."
　　...
　　 Gao Quan has become accustomed. His master is good at everything, but he doesn't like to learn. The purpose of cultivating his own learning is to help him write his schoolwork. If the doctors of Jiwendian knew about it, would they be p*ss off?
　　 "Your Highness, if you get up again, you will be late for class. Today is Dr. Jin's class." Gao Quan reminded.
Xiao Rui jumped up, dressing, and cursed: "Old man Jin's class? Now it's dead. What tasks did he leave for last class? Oh, I was too busy to remember. "
 　　 "With spring as the topic, I compose a poem." Gao Quan reminded.
　　 "Compose a poem?" Xiao Rui heard it, and immediately regained his calmness: "I thought it was an ancient prose commentary again. It's good to write a poem. Master, I dare not call myself a poem saint, but the king of poems still dare to be!"
　　 "Golden Retriever Lion King?" Gao Quan asked.
　　 "Get out!" Xiao Rui scolded with a smile.
　　 After dinner, Gao Quan drove slowly towards the imperial city.
　　 Entering the Outer Imperial City, to the Jiwen Hall in the northeast corner, Xiao Rui got out of the car and walked.
　　 "Brother Seven! Brother Seven!"
　　 Without taking two steps, Xiao Rui heard someone calling him behind him, his voice was light and cheerful, and he knew who it was without having to look.
 　　 "Brother Seven, why are you ignoring me." A teenager ran over with a beautiful face.
　　 Xiao Rui glanced at him and said, "It's Lao Jiu! You came early and didn't ask for leave today."
　　 Juvenile is the youngest of the nine princes, Xiao Yan.
"My mouth is sweet, hardworking and studious. Have you ever asked for leave? It's Brother Seven, you have changed today? You came so early." Xiao Yan smiled and said, "Brother Seven, I'll go to Fourth Brother's house to play with you, OK? ?"
　　 "No, I'm not free." Xiao Rui refused.
　　 Xiao Yan continued: "What are you up to? May I be with you?"
　　 "Squatting, do you want to accompany you too?" Xiao Rui said silently.
　　 Xiao Yan thought for a while, and Zheng nodded his head: "Then I will keep it and accompany you after class."
　　 "..." Xiao Rui quickened his pace.
　　 Xiao Yan followed closely, like a trumpet that couldn't finish talking.
　　 Entering Jiwen Palace, Xiao Rui met Xiao Jing, the eighth prince.
　　 He is half a year younger than Xiao Rui, and only half a year older than Xiao Yan, but his character is much older than Xiao Yan, and now he has become a master of Qiu and he is even more proud. After all, among the Confucian scholars of Daxia Kingdom, Master Qiu's name can be ranked in the top twenty.
　　 He also saw Xiao Rui and Xiao Jing, and simply nodded as a greeting.
　　 Xiao Yan entangled Xiao Rui and dared to make fun of words, but he did not dare to make a fuss in the face of this starling Xiao Jing.
 　　 After all, mynah's name is not called for nothing, so I can't help it.
　　 In addition to the three princes, there are other princes who studied together in Jiwendian. Emperor Xia couldn't help women studying, so there were 23 princesses.
　　 Xiao Rui looked for the corner seat in the last row and lay down on the table lazily. Compared with Xiao Jing, who was sitting in the front row, Xiao Rui was always the lowest-profile. If he could take Xiao Yan away, it would be more perfect.
　　 Dr. Jin is here.
　　, holding the ruler on his back, wandered into the room like an old man, she glanced around, and everyone did not squint.
　　 "Yo! Xiao Rui is here."
　　 Dr. Jin stared at Xiao Rui in the last row and said.
Xiao Rui's mouth twitched. There was no way. He came to Baodi early a year ago and was absent from school as a prince. He asked for a big leave for three days and a small leave for two days. He even ran into Dr. Jin and eventually angered Emperor Xia and was A penalty was given.
　　 If I knew my situation earlier, how could I dare to float.
"Class!" Dr. Jin came to Jiangtai and said, "Last class, how did the old man prepare for the assignments? I wrote a poem on the topic of Spring. Copying or writing is not allowed! Good author, the old man has rewards. And the bullshit, huh, the old man's ruler is not merciful."
"Snapped!"
　　 The ruler knocked on the table and snapped.
　　 "Who will come first?" Dr. Jin scanned the crowd.
　　 The eighth prince Xiao Jing stood up and bowed and said, "Doctor, students come first."
　　 Dr. Jin smiled and said, "Okay!"
　　Xiao Jingnian said: "The willows are drizzling and the rain is clear, and the remaining flowers fall to see the wandering warriors. The spring breeze blows the dream of the country overnight, and then the spring breeze reaches the dream city."
 　　 "This poem is written by students when they see their mother and concubine miss their hometown." Xiao Jing laughed.
Dr. Jin nodded and commented: "In the whole poem, Chun plays a consistent role. It triggers homesickness, provokes hometown dreams, blows homeward dreams, and is omnipresent. It is well written, and it seems you are after class. I will give you top grades for the results of serious thinking."
　　 "Dr. Xie." Xiao Jing was overjoyed, scanning the classroom from the corner of his eyes.
　　 suddenly.
　　 He saw a middle-aged man standing outside the back door. He turned his head around in fright. Although he didn't see his face, his apricot-yellow casual clothes embroidered with dragons could not explain his identity?
　　 Emperor Xia is watching class!
　　 Xiao Jing was secretly pleased that when he wrote a poem, the emperor must be outside the door. This poem can not only show his literary talent, but also reflect his filial piety. I think the emperor must have a look at him.
　　 Dr. Jin naturally also saw Huang Huang's figure.
　　 He kept quiet, and asked, "Who is coming from here?"
The elder son of Prince Rui stood up and wrote a poem honestly. Fairly satisfactory, not outstanding. Dr. Jin gave an inferior product.
　　 Twenty-three people wrote poems one after another, and in the end only Xiao Rui and Xiao Yan were left.
　　 Dr. Jin knew well, and deliberately asked: "Who else hasn't read it?"
　　 Xiao Yan tilted his head slightly and asked Xiao Rui: "Seven brother, you go up first?"
　　 "Come on, my poem is so good, the finale." Xiao Rui rested his chin with his hand, feeling boring.
　　 Xiao Yan curled his lips, then got up and said, "Doctor, there is me."
　　 "Two sparrows are singing green willows, and a line of egrets fly in the sky. The mountains outside the window are covered with snow, and you can see a row of boats on the river."
　　 "Puff..." Xiao Rui couldn't help laughing, and quickly covered her mouth again.
　　 Xiao Yan glanced at him bitterly, is this poem funny?
Dr. Jin glared at Xiao Rui and said, "Although it is a limerick, you can see your intentions, because you have observed the environment around you. It is worthy of praise. Xiao Rui, you think it is funny. , Is there a top-quality masterpiece? If you can't make it, don't blame me and punish you!"
　　Dingdong...
　　 Xiao Rui suddenly thought of the prompt tone in his mind.
　　 When I close my eyes, a line of information code pops out.
　　 "New task: accept the challenge of Dr. Jin, complete the top-grade poems, and the descending value +5."
　　 Xiao Rui raised his eyebrows, he wanted to see if the advent value collection was full, what functions were there.
　　 stood up, Xiao Rui bowed: "Doctor, the student lacks literary talent, the top-grade verses, is it too difficult?"
"Difficult? Then you still make fun of others?" Dr. Jin shouted: "Well, if you can make top-grade verses, and if you ask for leave in the future, the old man will approve and never ask you. And if you can't make top-grade verses, or maybe If there is suspicion of copying or writing on behalf of others, I will punish you to copy "The University" five times! Copy it yourself, when you finish copying, and when you leave the collection hall."
　　 Yo, this old guy forced himself to show his hand, low-key and high-profile work, today I will show off.
　　 "Okay, the doctor is true to his words, and the students naturally agree." Xiao Rui said proudly: "Then ask the doctor to comment on my verse."
　　 "The spring is late, the flowers are luxuriant. Cang Geng is here, picking Qiqi!"
　　 "This is a four-character short poem. It is sent out with feelings. There are five-character quatrains below. Dr. Jin, please listen: You don't know the dawn in spring, you can hear the birds everywhere. The sound of wind and rain at night, how much do you know about the flowers."
 　　 "I'm still in the seven-character quatrains, so it's better to read them together: The light rain on the street is as crisp as the grass, but the grass is not close to you. The most benefit of the spring is one year, and it is worse than the smoky willows."
　　 "Dr. Jin, are these poems in your eyes? Not enough, I still have words, and singing is fine."
　　 Xiao Rui is triumphant.

Xiao Rui was reborn as the seventh son of Emperor Daxia.

“I’m going to be a Happy Lord!” Xiao Rui.

“No, you don’t want to.” System.

“I don’t want to open missions, don’t fall in value.” Xiao Rui.

“Dear, you think.” System.

“Are you forcing me to be the emperor? I don’t want it, I don’t want it.” Xiao Rui.

“No, you want.” System.

——————

Therefore, Xiao Rui, under the pressure of the system, how to step by step and ascend to the throne under the crowd of tigers.

Oh, right. There are still several countries in the neighbourhood watching closely.

Wang Rich came from a very wealthy family. He liked making friends while posing himself as a culture lover. He also liked to show off some of his ordinary poems. At times, he could come up with a few relatively good ones.
After finding out that Brother Muzhi was also a poetry lover, he couldn't wait to show off a little bit.
"That's a good proposal, Brother Wang!"
"I can't agree any more."
They all nodded.
Lu Changsheng simply glanced at Liu Qingfeng.
In fact, Lu Changsheng didn't really hate these kinds of things. But he just really wanted to avoid triggering another unusual phenomenon.
Fortunately, he had the Pagoda of Heaven and Earth with him, it could suppress most of the unusual phenomena from appearing.
"We can give Brother Muzhi some time first. Why don't we read Brother Wang's poem to start off?"
Zhou Haijie suggested this, he knew that improvisation was always difficult.
Lu Changsheng nodded.
Wang Rich immediately cleared his throat and was ready to recite his poem. "Alright, please forgive my incompetence."
He got up and slowly spoke, "A red boat is touring Jingling!"
"The fish are accompanying the boat!"
"It's just like you and me and him!"
"It's fate that we gather!"
Wang Rich's recital was very affectionate.
The last sentence was especially filled with deep emotions.
"That's nice!"
"Good! What a beautiful poem!"
"Brother Wang, you're so talented! It's so good!"
They were all filled with praise for him.
However, Lu Changsheng didn't know what they were talking about.
How could this thing be called a poem?
And they were even giving this thing such a high evaluation? Are you serious?
He didn't know whether this was because of money or just that they had really bad taste.
This kind of rubbish poetry neither had rhymes nor rhythm, the wording was also extremely poor.
He looked at Liu Qingfeng, the latter was slightly nodding. Although Liu Qingfeng didn't make any comments, it seemed that this poem wasn't too bad in his eyes.
At this moment, Lu Changsheng started to feel desperate.
They were a bunch of illiterates!
"In Brother Wang's poem, every single word is filled with emotion. The first sentence describes the real scene and lays a good foundation for the following line. Fate is the essence of the poem."
Zhou Haijie was indeed such a good flatterer.
Zhang Peng also nodded and said, "The last sentence is an amazing finishing touch. Indeed, it is fate that made us gather here together.
Everyone kept nodding.
"Are you ready, Brother Lu?" Zhou Haijie asked Lu Changsheng curiously.
Lu Changsheng slowly stood up. He was pondering about which one to pick, but now, he felt no pressure at all.
"Black clouds—spilled ink half blotting out the hills;"
"Pale rain—bouncing beads that splatter in the boat."
"Land-rolling wind comes, blasts and scatters them:"
"Below Lake Watch Tower, water like sky."
Lu Changsheng slowly recited the poem.
He was rather calm, this was because the poem was written by one of the most well-known poets, Su Shi.
However, after Lu Changsheng finished the last line.
The audience slightly frowned. 
Zhou Haijie started to comment, "This poem isn't bad. The black clouds are like spilled ink and raindrops are like falling beads. Then the wind sweeps over and scatters all of the clouds. In the last sentence, it means that the rain stopped and the waves calmed down. Upon leaning against the rails of the tall tower, the poet saw that the sky was so crystal clear and the lake was so clean and beautiful.
"However, this poem isn't appropriate for the current occasion."
Zhou Haijie wasn't totally illiterate, he could understand the poem.
However, in his eyes, this poem failed to reflect the current scene.
The rest of them all nodded.
Although this poem was extremely beautiful, they failed to share the mood right now. Therefore, it felt like something was missing.
"Why is that so?" Lu Changsheng put on a gorgeous smile.
Zhou Haijie answered, "It's such a good day today. We see neither black clouds nor rain."
This was extremely obvious.
Lu Changsheng then smiled, he slowly walked to the front end of the boat.
He reached out his hand and said, "Here comes the rain."
With the last word, at this very moment,
Pitter-patter!
Pitter-patter!
Ripples suddenly appeared on the calm surface of the lake.
Very soon after, heavy rain fell. Countless water beads bounced all over the river.
Between the mountains and the hills, mist filled the air.
The black clouds were as dark as ink, but they hadn't covered all the mountains.
In the red boat, they watched this scene in amazement.
This… This was unbelievably remarkable.
They couldn't believe their eyes.
From a distance, at the front end of the boat, Lu Changsheng, while dressed in white, looked exactly like an immortal. He stood with his back towards them, staring at the pouring rain and the mountains embraced by the soft mist.
"I've never seen such a gorgeous man in this world," one of the ladies murmured. Her eyes couldn't move away from Lu Changsheng back.
The males in the boat were suddenly attacked by a sense of inferiority.
While staring at the downpour, Lu Changsheng's heart felt somehow touched.
He saw passersby on the bridge taking out umbrellas, he then heard the corner of his robe whistle.
Standing with his hands behind his back, Lu Changsheng slowly opened his mouth, "My leaflike boat braves the perilous waves. I've slept through Southern rain and smoke. My eyes are filled with green mountains when awake; I come back, shaking water off my green straw cloak.
"Spring rain submerged the bridge and people cannot cross; Out of the green shadow came a small boat.
"In spring, the water is bluer than the sky; In a painted boat listening to the rain they lie.
"Raindrops fell on red flowers; Green smoke entangled fine willow branches."
Lu Changsheng spoke out a poem.
Suddenly, vague pictures appeared in the mist.
In the pictures were boats and figures.
A fisherman fell asleep in his small boat in the waves, and when he woke up, he was already among the endless green mountains. After shaking off the water on his green straw coat, he was ready to go back home.
In spring, the water was even clearer than the sky. A man slowly fell asleep in his boat, listening to the rain. What a beautiful scene that was!
The passersby all saw the pictures in the air. They were utterly amazed.
Lu Changsheng smiled.
This smile could easily make all the struggles one had vanish into the air.
The people in the red boat joined Lu Changsheng to enjoy such a beautiful moment together.
"This is so beautiful, In spring, the water is bluer than the sky. Amazing! Brother Lu, you have immeasurable talent!" 
Li Yue sincerely appreciated the beauty of the lines, and bowed to Lu Changsheng.
"Although there is no willow around, your lines have planted willows in my heart, Brother Lu."  Zhou Haijie sighed emotionally.
They were lost in this beautiful scene and amazing poetry.
At this time, the sky suddenly cleared up.
The lake was clear and the sky was blue.
The rain came and went so quickly.
The beautiful and sunny day had come back.
While enjoying this beautiful scene, Lu Changsheng couldn't help but ask himself, "Changsheng, why are you so handsome?"


Lu Changsheng is depressed.
In this world full of cultivators and immortals, because of his face and irresistible fine bearing as a protagonist, women fall in love with him within three seconds. Unusual heavenly phenomena occur to celebrate his breakthroughs. His literary talent can easily shock all scholars and his random citations are eulogized by the heaven and earth. Legendary beasts offer themselves as mounts, celestial treasures throw themselves into his pockets. 
However, there is one thing he does not understand.
He's the main character, the protagonist, the MC! Why does his cultivation suck?
Also known as "Super Ultra Ordinary and Average Eldest Senior Brother," "Why Am I Still the MC Even When I Suck at Cultivation," "My Good-looking Face But Hopeless Cultivation."

Rays of warm spring sunshine illuminated her body gently, adding to her radiant beauty.
Having finished a poem, she put down her brush and turned over to look at the Dowager Duchess. It seemed as if there were fragments of light flowing about her clear, radiant eyes which glimmered brilliantly with every slight movement she made.
She stuck out her tongue. "Grandmother, I'm done writing, but I don't think I wrote it well. I hope you don't punish me," she said. 
Long Chi stared at her in a daze. He then squinted his eyes slightly. 
He had never known that this dimwitted girl had such stunning visuals! 
"This girl, you're afraid of being punished by me?" the Dowager Duchess bellowed. Nonetheless, the look on her face softened as she got up to head over to the front of Lu Liangwei's table, then proceeded to pick up the paper before her. 
She began reciting lightly, "On this very day last year at this very gate, faces and cherry blossoms both bloomed red. The faces are now in places unknown, yet the cherry blossoms still beam in the spring wind," she read. 
When she finished reciting, the courtyard fell silent. 
A moment later, the Dowager Duchess snapped out of her daze and stared at Lu Liangwei unblinkingly. "Girl, you composed this poem on your own?" she asked. 
Lu Yunshuang clutched the handkerchief in her hand tightly, a sophisticated look flashing across her eyes. 
How was it possible for this dimwitted girl to compose a poem when she could not even memorize a poem? 
Aunt Zheng had the exact same thoughts. This pathetic girl was used to behaving in a capricious manner since her youth due to how much the Lord doted on her. She did not even read many books, how did she know how to compose poems? 
In contrast to the scornful mother-daughter pair, Longchi took a few thoughtful glances toward Lu Liangwei. 
'The faces are now in places unknown, yet the cherry blossoms still beam in the spring wind?'
Assuming that he managed to grasp the connotations of Lu Liangwei's poem, slight contempt glinted in his eyes.
This woman had previously expressed that she did not want to become his concubine. However, it was obvious that she had not forgotten him. Otherwise, why would she compose such a poem?
Seeing the Dowager Duchess's eyes fill up with admiration, Lu Yunshuang was just about to expose Lu Liangwei when she started speaking. 
"Grandmother, you've really overestimated me. How would I know how to compose a poem? I saw this poem from a book I read in the past and memorized it as I found it to be quite good," she said. 
Hearing what she had to say, the corners of Lu Yunshuang's lips curved upward. At least this dimwitted girl had a clear understanding of her own abilities. 
Upon hearing this, the Dowager Duchess was slightly disappointed, but when she thought about it from another perspective, this granddaughter of hers had never liked studying. How could she become so highly skilled within a day's time? 
Thinking that way, she felt relieved and caressed Lu Liangwei's hair. "It is alright if you do not know how to compose poems. I am not demanding you to become a teacher. However, you must read more books daily as it'll definitely benefit you greatly," she said lovingly.
"Weiwei understands," Lu Liangwei responded while appearing extremely obedient.
The Dowager Duchess felt even more delighted upon seeing this. "Grandmother has read a few books before as well. However, how have I never come across this poem that you've written down? Which book is it from?" she asked. 
Lu Liangwei blinked. "I do not recall the book I saw it from, but if I do see it the next time, I'll definitely send it over to Grandmother," she said. 
"Alright," the Duchess Dowager nodded.
Dismal flitted across Lu Yunshuang's eyes. 
It was obvious that the poem she composed was way better than the poem Lu Liangwei copied from some unknown source. Nevertheless, in the eyes of the Dowager Duchess, there was only Lu Liangwei. 
Deep in her heart, this made her feel extremely uncomfortable. 
Turning around, she saw Long Chi staring at Lu Liangwei thoughtfully. Beyond shocked, she was instantly filled with jealousy. 　　
The Duchess Dowager was being like this, but even the Crown Prince had his attention on Lu Liangwei. 
Lu Yunshuang gave Lu Liangwei a fierce, ruthless glare. 
This dimwitted girl! 
Noon followed soon after. The kitchen had already prepared the dishes and drinks, so everyone remained in the Longevity Hall to have their meal. 
　


Lu Liangwei wakes up to find herself transmigrated as a supporting character in the novel she had been reading a few days ago. According to the novel, this character has everything—beauty, wealth, status—except brains. Before Liangwei had taken over, she even went as far as to hang herself for the male protagonist that she loved: the Crown Prince as well as her sister's lover. Now that she has become a "brand new" person, it is time for her to turn her life around with charm and wit! She will get everyone to fall in love with her, even the Crown Prince's uncle—the Emperor! Who needs a prince when you can become the Empress herself?

"Lord Gu Masters, please come in!" The waiter bent his back as he invited Hua Song and An Chong into the shop.
"This is a famous teahouse of the capital city, it is very crowded, I have come here many times in the past." Hua Song transmitted as he explained to An Chong.
The two had disguised as Gu Masters as they came to the capital city of Profound Literature grotto-heaven.
An Chong was more willing to observe the capital city from above the clouds. But since Hua Song had such interests, he could only accompany the person who invited him.
"I want a table on the fifth floor." Hua Song was very familiar with this place.
The two came to the fifth floor, they entered the room and saw through the windows that the streets were bustling with people outside, the street with the bronze gate where the first round of the competition was held was completely packed with people.
"These are the current generation scholars of my Profound Literature grotto-heaven, they are the hope of our future as well. Please observe." Hua Song sighed as he handed a rank five investigative Gu worm to An Chong, it could observe the target's talent qi.
An Chong took a look and used it immediately, his field of vision changing immediately. He could now see the talent qi above the heads of countless scholars. These talent qi had all sorts of colors, some were taller than others, they all had different forms, it was an eye-opener.
"Since you have such a Gu worm to observe talent qi, what is the point of holding this competition?" An Chong asked.
Hua Song chuckled: "You might not know, talent qi is like cultivation level, even if one possesses a larger talent qi, they might not be able to use it properly in actual competition. Furthermore, this competition requires them to make poems on the spot, they cannot cheat. We want to test the upbringing of these scholars, some who have abundant talent qi might not have sufficient inspiration to create the highest quality poems."
An Chong nodded: "I see that the formations here are interlinked, they are able to amplify the creative thinking of the scholars?"
Hua Song nodded: "Indeed, you are very perceptive! Within the immortal formation, scholars are able to display greater abilities than usual, they will make full use of their talents."
As they spoke, the door was knocked.
After getting Hua Song's permission, the waiter brought over an array of dishes and wine.
"Eight treasure duck, golden thread crispy sparrow, panda crab meat, they are all signature dishes of our teahouse, please enjoy the food." The waiter said.
Hua Song gave the waiter one primeval stone as a tip before he left the room.
Hua Song explained to An Chong: "Envoy, even though the tea here is mortal tea, it was created by Lord Hua Yu in his youth, when he was still a rank four Gu Master, he became the top scholar and thus this tea was named by him as the top scholar tea."
"Oh?" An Chong became interested now, this was the creation of a rank eight Gu Immortal in his youth.
"Then I will have to savor this well." An Chong drank it, he shut his eyes as he tasted the tea, in a daze, he felt a rush of excitement in his heart, it was as if he had attained success after decades of hard work, he finally gained the reputation and fame that he deserved, life was at its peak!
"Good tea, good tea." An Chong praised sincerely: "Even though this is a mortal tea, it has a trace of human path ingenuity within it!"
During the fate war, Central Continent's Heavenly Court used multiple human path killer moves with shocking power, the entire world knew about it. Thus, human path became renowned in the world, everyone knew about it.
While the two immortals were enjoying their tea, the bronze gate of the first competition ground opened slowly.
The crowd of people waiting before the gate erupted into a huge commotion.
"It's opening, it's opening!"
"Don't squeeze."
"Quickly let me in."
The crowds charged through the gate.
Li Xiao Bai was among them, but he was at the back instead.
He moved along with the people as he analyzed the rules of this competition.
"The world poetry competition has eighteen rounds, each one has a question, everyone has to answer it, regardless of how many people, their final product will be assessed and only half will be able to pass."
"Towards the later rounds, the numbers will continue being halved. Like this, once someone passes all eighteen rounds, they will fulfill the condition."
"If someone fails once, they will have to return to the previous round. If they keep losing and fall out of the first round, they will be out."
"However, this poetry competition will last for seven days. Everyone has three opportunities to try even if they get kicked out of the first round."
"This way, Profound Literature grotto-heaven will be able to pick the most eligible Gu Immortal seeds. Even if someone makes a mistake, they will have a chance to try again. But if any scholar fails to perform throughout the seven days, it will mean that they are not up to standard, they are not qualified to receive the grotto-heaven's help to become an immortal."
Li Xiao Bai retracted his thoughts, he had already arrived at the first arena.
The arena was large but packed with scholars.
There were males and females, young and old, the number of people exceeded the thousands.
This was just the first day.
Li Xiao Bai waited for another fifteen minutes in the arena before all of the scholars had joined the first round.
There was truly a sea of people, the liveliness was overwhelming.
Thankfully, the first arena was an immortal formation space, it could expand casually and hold so many scholars without problems.
Bang… bang… bang!
As the drums rolled, a voice was transmitted into the scholars' minds: "World poetry competition, first question — Spring, the time limit is five minutes."
After saying that, the voice vanished.
"The first question is spring?"
Many scholars frowned while many scholars showed happy expressions.
Li Xiao Bai thought to himself: "There are simply too many spring poems in existence, this question seems really easy. After all, most scholars would have some sort of verses related to this theme. Even though the world poetry competition requires the creation of poems on the spot, a person can easily modify existing verses to create their own new poems."
"But in reality, this question is quite the tough one." Li Xiao Bai had an expression of deep thought.
He knew that his poem was going to compete against the surrounding people. As long as he was stronger than half of them, he would progress to the next stage.
Many scholars noticed this as well.
Many people started to think, some sat down on the ground while others paced around with their arms behind their backs, some lowered their heads, muttering softly to themselves.
Li Xiao Bai's thought was: "Which poem do I use, or steal?"
There were many spring related poems in his memory, they were all amazing classics.
But using a legendary classic from the start was not good, this would not allow Li Xiao Bai to explain himself in the future. He did not have top tier talent qi, if he took out a shocking poem now, he would attract suspicion.
If his luck was good now, Li Xiao Bai might take slight risks. But now that he was having bad luck, Li Xiao Bai decided to play safe.
While Li Xiao Bai was thinking about it, many scholars already started to make their poems.
Thus, all kinds of lights shining in all colors, weak or strong, appeared. Whenever the light fades from a scholar's body, they would have some gains.
Some gained Gu worms, some gained a rise in cultivation level, some recovered primeval essence, while others recovered from fatigue.
This was the killer move known as assisting literary talents.
Profound Literature grotto-heaven's creator, its original owner, had used this move before his death. Because of assisting literary talents, more and more scholars were encouraged to study, it eventually created the environment of Profound Literature grotto-heaven where most people were scholars.
Li Xiao Bai decided on his poem.
He coughed lightly before starting his recital.
"A moonlit night[1]."
"Deep into the night the moon shines on half a cottage, across the sky the Big Dipper lies, the Little Dipper tilts an incline."
"The warmth of spring is readily felt tonight, through the green window screen, insects buzz and hum."
After Li Xiao Bai finished his recital, a light buzzing noise could be heard around him, his entire body shined in an intense green light.
Whoosh.
The scholars around Li Xiao Bai felt an invisible pressure as the green light forced them to move aside, a huge empty space was created with Li Xiao Bai at the center.
"Such, such a strong light!"
"A famed poem has appeared!"
"To think that a famed poem would appear so quickly. I wonder who created it?"
Many scholars lost their train of thought, they all looked towards Li Xiao Bai with admiration and suspicion.
Li Xiao Bai had a calm expression but he was a little conflicted inside: "Sigh, I went overboard a little, the effect was so eye-catching, I gained too much attention."
He looked around, hoping someone would step up and take the attention away from him.
As the green light entered his aperture, his cultivation level rose.
"Oh! A famed poem has appeared, let me go read it." At the teahouse, Hua Song had a sensation.
After reading Li Xiao Bai's work, Hua Song nodded in satisfaction: "Brilliant, brilliant! This Li Xiao Bai is very young but his poems are very mature."
"Normally, spring poems would use verses involving greenery or peach blossoms. But this poem uses another train of thought, using the night scene to conceal the spring light, it is quite interesting."
"The final verse must be created using Li Xiao Bai's personal experiences. It has a refreshing, happy, and lively feeling."
"Poems take after the creator, this Li Xiao Bai has a superb mindset!"
Hua Song praised it for a while, as if he had just eaten a delicacy of the world. He looked at An Chong as he smiled: "I wonder what envoy thinks of this poem?"
An Chong felt a headache as he thought: "If you didn't tell me, I wouldn't know what's so good about this poem. Sigh, he wants me to critique it, what should I say?"
[1] Poem by Liu Fangping.


With his Three Fundamental Views* unrighteous, the demon is reborn.
An old dream in the ancient days, a new author with an identical name.
An old story about a time traveler who was constantly being reborn.
An eccentric world that grows, cultivates, and uses Gu. 
The Spring Autumn Cicada, Moonlight Gu, Liquor worm, Comprehensive Golden Light Worm, Fine Black Hair Gu, Hope Gu. . . . . .
And a peerless great demon that freely acts to his heart’s content.
Translator's Synopsis: 
A story of a villain, Fang Yuan who was reborn 500 years into the past with the Spring Autumn Cicada he painstakingly refined. With his profound wisdom, battle and life experiences, he seeks to overcome his foes with skill and wit! Ruthless and amoral, he has no need to hold back as he pursues his ultimate goals. In a world of cruelty where one cultivates using Gu - magical creatures of the world - Fang Yuan must rise up above all with his own power.
--------------------------------
Gu is a legendary venomous insect, often used in black magic practices. It can take on the form of several insects, usually snakes, crickets, worms etc.
* = one's world view, values of worth and philosophy on life 


The activities began.
Due to the station head being present here today, many of the other station leaders came down to the event hall as well. The staff who were in charge of the venue were also being more cautious in their work, as they announced in high spirits,"Good afternoon leaders, colleagues, and everyone else. With the bountiful year coming to an end, Central TV is commencing this year's staff calligraphy competition. This event will see very generous prizes be given out, with a laptop for the first prize, a cell phone for the second prize, and 500 yuan worth of call credits for the third prize. Could we please have the contestants come forward to the tables in front to write your calligraphy pieces?"
Nobody moved.
Everyone hesitantly looked at each other, before finally looking at the station head.
"Station Head, why don't you kick off the competition?"
"Yes, Station Head, please do so."
"If only I knew that you'd be taking part, then I wouldn't have joined the competition myself. My writing can't compare to yours, Station Head, so it would be better if I don't embarrass myself."
Hearing that, the station head politely laughed and said,"You all go ahead instead."
Central TV Department 2's director laughed."If you don't start off writing first, I don't think any of us would dare to do so before you."
Seeing that there was really no one who went forward, the station head could only state with a smile,"Alright then, please bear with my pending performance. I will initiate the competition, but the rest will have to depend on all of you." Saying so, the station head walked up to the nearest desk in front of him, then attentively picked up a hand towel to wipe his hands before taking the brush. He dipped the brush into the inkstone full of ink, and then with a look of concentration, put the brush onto the Xuan paper.
With several lively and vigorous strokes!
He had written out a piece in cursive script!
A lot of people were already praising it.
"Good!"
"It's great!"
"Good writing, very good writing!"
"Our station head is truly highly skilled!"
Everyone in the station knew that the station head's calligraphy writing was quite good. There was even a calligraphy scroll written by him that was hanging in the premises of Central TV Tower. Since they knew that the station head had a liking for cursive script, they were not exactly surprised, and instead used this chance to suck up to him.
Seeing this, Zhang Ye felt a little curious. He knew that cursive scripts were the hardest to write. If one was not highly skilled in calligraphy, they probably couldn't write a good line of cursive script. That was why when he walked closer to have a look, he was slightly taken aback by what he saw. He did not say anything and just silently turned back around.
Ha Qiqi looked at him."What's the matter, Director Zhang?"
"It's nothing," Zhang Ye replied quietly.
That cursive script was really not that presentable. It was not bad looking, but it was absolutely not considered good looking either. However, thinking about it, the station head was just a hobbyist after all, so being able to pen it this way was already pretty good. He definitely should not be compared against the likes of a professional calligrapher.
He finished writing.
It was a very simple phrase: Tranquility yields transcendence.
Everyone applauded!
The station head put down the brush and smiled as he waved it off."I've regressed."
Jiang Yuan smiled and said,"If you call that a regression, then other people's calligraphy won't even be worth looking at."
Xu Yipeng brazenly stated,"Station Head, dare I ask on behalf of our Rise to the Dance program team if you would so generous as to bestow upon us this calligraphy piece of yours? Might we deserve that honor?"
The supervisor of Central TV Department 3 interjected,"Station Head, please bestow it upon us instead!"
"Station Head!"
A lot of people were asking for the piece.
The station head chuckled and then had a look at them, but still pointed to Xu Yipeng in the end."Since Little Xu asked first, I will give it to him."
The others could only watch with regret.
Meanwhile, Xu Yipeng, Chen Ye, and a few others were beaming with joy."Thank you, Station Head." Then they turned around and instructed one of the staff members,"Frame it up properly when we get back so that we can hang it up in the office space!"
This act of gifting by the station head had left Yan Tianfei and the people of Department 14 with a peculiar expression.
Whoever asked first would get it? Even if this was a valid reason, was there also a possibility that this was expressing another meaning? But whatever it was, everyone present at the venue could see the station's and station head's supportive attitude of Xu Yipeng, Chen Ye, and the entire Rise to the Dance program team. This support was so great that even a blind man could "see" it.
Unable to help himself, Jiang Yuan peeked at Yan Tianfei.
Quite a number of people were also observing Zhang Ye's reaction.
However, Zhang Ye just showed an indifferent expression and did not seem like he was affected by that action at all.
People were still gradually arriving at the event hall, and at this moment, Central TV Department 11's Director Chen Huo and a deputy director arrived. The moment they saw Zhang Ye near the entrance, they looked sullen. To clarify, they were the earliest group of people from Central TV who had come into contact with Zhang Ye. Back then, during the crosstalk and skit competition, Zhang Ye was one of the competitors who joined. As a result, the competition met with all kinds of incidents and even got foiled by the duo of Zhang Ye and Yao Jiancai. Importantly, the station head of Central TV was a party member within the SARFT's organization. This was a position only afforded to Central TV's station head and also the reason why Central TV had a special status within the industry. But even so, the crosstalk and skit competition was still forcefully ordered to be canceled, so you can imagine just how much trouble was stirred up back then. And that was the reason why Chen Huo and his deputy director did not have any good impression of Zhang Ye.
In the entire Central TV organization, there were just too many people who disliked Zhang Ye!
"Who's next?"
"Let's do it together?"
"Then let's all go up and write our own individual pieces?"
"Hur hur, let's not be polite and just write!"
There were a total of three desks. Everyone slowly gathered around them and humbly insisted for the other contestants to go ahead first. At times, someone would go on up and write their piece, with those observers around praising them when they finished. Then the next person would do the same.
Yan Tianfei also went up to the table and wrote a single word: Bravery! Yan Tianfei had used the regular script in his piece, writing a very large character that took up a foot of the Xuan paper. His calligraphy writing was just like him, with rigid and sharp strokes at the edges and corners, which was also quite a unique style.
Jiang Yuan also went up to write. He wrote in a style that was seemingly a regular script yet also looked like a semi-cursive script. A few strokes were even done in the style of a cursive script, making it look neither here nor there. The standard was very low, but Xu Yipeng, Chen Ye, and many others were still praising and flattering his writing for a long time. But to Zhang Ye, it was simply too ridiculous. A layman might not be able to see it, but how could Zhang Ye not be able to differentiate between good or bad?
Urged on by her boyfriend's encouragement, Department 14's Huang Dandan also went forward to try. Huang Dandan's writing was surprisingly quite good as she wrote a seven character poem by one of the great ancient poets of this world. Her words were very delicate and softly beautiful, which made Zhang Ye's eyes light up when he saw it. [1.]
Zhang Zuo looked at Tong Fu and said,"Your girlfriend's calligraphy writing is that good?"
Tong Fu coughed violently."What girlfriend? We're just friends, just friends."
Actually, everyone already knew that they were a couple, but perhaps because office relationships were still quite frowned upon, they rarely admitted to it.
Gradually, most of the contestants finished penning their pieces.
"Director Xu."
"Why don't you give it a try too?"
"Yeah, teach us a little!"
The Rise to the Dance program team were making a commotion over there. With the imminent announcement of the viewership ratings, they were all feeling full of confidence right now. In a good mood, they had a lot more to say. Besides, in the entirety of Central TV, only their program team had the highest viewership ratings, the highest investment amount, and carried the most expectations from the leaders, so they could afford to act so proudly. Any other program teams without good viewership ratings would never dare to be so showy in public like they were.
Xu Yipeng laughed."Then allow me to embarrass myself!"
He went forward.
Picked up the brush.
And started writing.
With a flourish of the brush, the piece that he was writing turned out to be "Spring in Qin Garden: Plum."
Spring in Qin Garden was not about a garden named Qin during springtime, but a ci tune similar to that of a song. From the ancient times, it was one of the fixed-tone tunes anyone could fill in with the appropriate words. Spring in Qin Garden already existed in this world prior and was also referred to as a ci tune. The poem Shuidiao Getou, which Zhang Ye had written during the Mid-Autumn Festival Poetry Meet, was also based on this tune and this established history did not differ much from his previous world.
Of course, the poem that Xu Yipeng wrote was not his original composition, and neither was he capable of doing so. This "Spring in Qin Garden: Plum" was written by an ancient poet of this world who wasn't too well known. As such, not a lot of people had came across it before. Unlike Zhang Ye's previous world, there were not too famous works based on Spring in Qin Garden in this world. Among all the ci tunes passed down from ancient times, Spring in Qin Garden was considered to be one of the least known ones. There were hardly any good works using this tune, and if one did not research on this topic professionally, they might not even know that a ci tune like Spring in Qin Garden existed."Spring in Qin Garden: Plum" might even possibly be one of the more well-known ones, as there was a historical story that mentioned it. [2.]
Xu Yipeng moved his brush around suavely as he wrote out the poem.
Everyone applauded incessantly!
"Nicely written!"
"Director Xu's calligraphy is really good!"
"What a great 'Spring in Qin Garden: Plum'!"
The poem was very lengthy and Xu Yipeng was fully focused on writing for a long time. Perhaps because of the presence of so many leaders, or because of the station head gifting his writing to him, Xu Yipeng was more roused. He wished to perform to his best and was so engrossed that beads of sweat started forming on his temples—which of course also had to do with the fact that the event hall's internal heating was too strong.
"Good writing, the poem is very good too!"
"I know this poem. Even though it's not very well-known, I still especially like it. If the original poet were more famous, this poem would definitely be much more well-known!"
"I like it too!"
"This is the first time I've come across this poem. It's great!"
"How can it not be good. Every time a staff calligraphy competition is held, as long as Director Xu participates, he will surely place within the top three!"
He finished writing.
Xu Yipeng said to everyone,"Please excuse my poor writing."
Everyone started clapping.
Even Huang Dandan subconsciously followed them and clapped along. Although she felt that her own writing was quite good, but when compared with Xu Yipeng, she knew that she was still lagging behind by a large margin, especially since the poem he chose was also very good. However, when she remembered that he was her competitor, Huang Dandan immediately put down her hands and stopped clapping.
Zhang Ye was also quite shocked and was very surprised that Xu Yipeng could write so well. He might not have seen everyone's writing, but of those that he did, Xu Yipeng's calligraphy piece probably stood out the most.
The station head walked over and admired the calligraphy piece for a long time. Then, he nodded and declared,"Good calligraphy!"
Xu Yipeng said humbly,"It can't compare to yours."
The station head shook his head and laughed."It's much better than mine. I saw your calligraphy a few years ago. Your calligraphy is probably considered one of the best among the amateur calligraphy hobbyists!"
Jiang Yuan added,"It's even comparable to that of a professional's!"
Was there a hidden meaning to that?
A professional?
Some people looked at Zhang Ye.
Ha Qiqi was a little hesitant, but she asked Zhang Ye quietly,"Director Zhang, Xu Yipeng's calligraphy looks rather good. Are you…" She did not know how to appreciate calligraphy nor claimed to understand it much.
Zhang Zuo, Tong Fu, and the others also did not know what would be considered good or bad, but when they heard the station head saying that he admired Xu Yipeng's writing, they also lost some of their confidence.
When Zhang Ye heard that, he chuckled."It is indeed quite good."
Little Wang responded,"Then what about your calligraphy? How does it compare to his?"
Compared to his?
Compared to Xu Yipeng's?
Zhang Ye did not say anything. He really did not know how he would answer that question, because if he did, it would make him feel like he was degrading himself!


Zhang Ye was originally a mundane college graduate with aspiring dreams to become a star, but unfortunately has below average looks and height. However one day, he woke up and suddenly found himself in a parallel world! 
It’s like the same world, but wait a minute…many brands, celebrities and even famous works from his world changed and are gone in this new world! Armed with the profound literary knowledge of his previous world and a heaven-defying Game Ring that gives him magical items, stats and skills, Zhang Ye embarks on a journey to pursue his life-long dream of becoming famous!
Follow Zhang Ye as he takes the new world by storm, one plagiarized piece at a time, to hilarious reactions!

Ling Tian smiled, ignoring XiMen Qing completely as he said to Qian ShuiRou, "If that’s the case, this little brother will continue the poem from before," as he said that, he tapped the table lightly with his finger and pondered for a moment before reciting,
"The gentle rain and light fog forms a smiling tower,
With a flower-like spirit but yet gentle like the willows.
My silence doesn’t represent heartlessness,
The spring winds represent my desire and rain represents my worries!"
Qian ShuiRou showed a trace of embarrassment as she turned around. A few grunts could then be heard as the eight tall guards burned in anger, looking as though they wanted to rip Ling Tian to shreds. With a chuckle, Ling Tian ignored them completely.
"Good! What a ‘The spring winds represent my desire and rain represent my worries’!" An old scholar stroked his beard and nodded his head. Ling Tian’s gentle poem was greatly to his liking and it was a love poem about love at first sight.
As the six judges compared Ling Tian and XiMen Qing’s poems, they all began to frown. Be it depth or substance, they were extremely similar and each had their own strengths. It was just impossible to place one above the other and a draw was declared.
Ling Tian shook his head with a smile and said with a trace of helplessness, "Ling Tian was only continuing the poem which brother Qian had created a few days ago. The inspiration for this poem is from brother Qian and it has nothing to do with young noble XiMen or this poetry competition. How can such a poem be judged or be rated as a draw? Haha, if some casual nonsense by me can be considered a draw, it is far too much of preferential treatment to me. Haha…"
As Ling Tian said that, the faces of all the judges turned purple on the spot. None of them would have imagined that such a beautiful poem was not Ling Tian’s true talent to deal with the provoking XiMen Qing! If that’s the case, then just how talented was this young noble Ling? Furthermore, this Ling Tian was just too arrogant, actually calling such a beautiful poem nonsense. How was this trying to be humble? This was just complete arrogance!
In the eyes of everyone present, Ling Tian’s previous poem was already considered to be a fantastic piece of work almost good enough to be crowned champion. While XiMen Qing’s poem was far ahead of the other poems, it was slightly inferior as compared to Ling Tian’s poem! For the judges to rule it as a draw, it was already giving the XiMen Family a great deal of face! While XiMen Qing’s poem was outstanding, it was limited and far from being considered the work of a grandmaster. But for Ling Tian’s poem, especially the final two phrases, it was completely able to describe the tender feelings of youth in love. In love but yet unable to say a thing, wishing to confess but yet staying silent from shyness. With just these two phrases alone, it was already enough to be a work passed down for generations to come!
Furthermore, Ling Tian purposefully emphasized on the word ‘draw’ when he was speaking previously, making the faces of the judges turned red. Especially the three judges who were invited by XiMen Qing, naturally showing some biases towards XiMen Qing and greatly supporting both the poems to be ruled as a draw. As for Mister Qing and Meng LiGe, they were obviously on Ling Tian’s side but they still stuck to their principles. If they were to fight the other judges about such an issue, it would only make things ugly! Ling Tian had already won a round, and it wouldn’t do any harm to declare this round as a draw. Besides, XiMen Qing’s farewell poem also had its specialties and thus the both of them did not say anything, silently agreeing to rule this round as a draw.
Furthermore, both Mister Qing and Meng LiGe wanted to see all of Ling Tian’s abilities. If Ling Tian were to win an overwhelming victory at this moment, the both of them were worried that Ling Tian would just give up on the fight later and not reveal any of his talents anymore. With Mister Qin’s understanding of Ling Tian, he knew that Ling Tian was someone who liked to lay low, feigning a pig to eat the tigers. It was entirely possible for Ling Tian to stop revealing his talent at this moment!
At this moment, XiMen Qing was also puzzled in his heart. He was indeed trying hard to regain his reputation to rebuild his prestige. For Ling Tian to give up such a beautiful poem, wasn’t it as good as shooting himself in the foot?
With his own talent, XiMen Qing could naturally tell that Ling Tian’s poem was better than his. Thus, he was extremely nervous that the judges would rule his defeat again, causing him to lose all his reputation! He was greatly relieved the moment that he heard that the judges ruled this round to be a draw.
Now that he heard that Ling Tian wanted to give up this poem, XiMen Qing was completely at ease as he thought to himself, For a single poem to have one or two phrases capable of being passed on for generations, it requires a stroke of inspiration and most scholars would never be able to come out with anything better than that. There were even some scholars who were well-versed in multiple fields and had their fame spread across the world but were never able to come up with such a poem capable of being passed on for generations! Did Ling Tian really think that such a fantastic poem was a worthless scrap that could be found along the sides of a road? Even my own farewell poem was something which required a flash of inspiration and is my best work to date. I don’t believe this Ling Tian will be able to beat me over and over again!
Thinking about this, XiMen Qing snorted coldly, "Young noble Ling is indeed a talented individual and XiMen Qing is in awe! If young noble Ling is able to create another poem worthy of being passed down for generations, I will swear to never play with poetry in my life again!"
Ling Tian laughed and filled up his glass again. Looking at the wine in his glass, he slowly recited emotionlessly, "One who abandons me, the day yesterday cannot be kept; one who troubles me, the day today will be worrisome!"
With just these two phrases, the almost one thousand people in the Smoky Thea Tower were completely silent! XiMen Qing’s face was also completely ashen. With just these two opening phrases, this poem was definitely worthy of being passed on for generations!
Mister Qin and Meng LiGe’s faces gleamed as they looked towards Ling Tian as though they had just obtained a treasure. As they muttered these two phrases to themselves, they felt as though they had just tasted a hundred-year-old fine wine, with the strong aftertaste lingering in their mouth as they reminisced the taste of the wine!
Qian ShuiRou, Xiao YanXue, and the other ladies were completely in shock. They were all experts in this field and were fully capable of discerning good from bad. When they heard what Ling Tian said previously, they also thought that he was being extremely arrogant. But now that they had heard this beautiful opening, they stared at Ling Tian with an incredulous expression! When Ling Tian had casually opened his mouth previously, a beautiful phrase like ‘The spring winds represent my desire and rain represent my worries’ was recited. Who would have imagined that in this short 10 minutes, they would be able to hear another fantastic poem! Just how many people from the ancient times until now will be able to do that?! While Ling Tian’s talent couldn't be said to be unmatched in history and the following generations to come, it was more than enough for him to be crowned the number one talent in this generation!
Ling Tian frowned lightly as he walked out from the door of the Heavenly Moon Chamber as though he was in deep thought. Everyone couldn't help but hold in their breaths, afraid that their soft breathing might interrupt Ling Tian’s thoughts and destroy this historic work. If that happened they would definitely be scholarly sinners for life!
Ling Tian then took a few steps forward and looked up with an unrestrained demeanor like a hermit who was traveling the continent. At this moment, Ling Tian was no longer the number one silkpants, or the young noble of a Great Family. Instead, he was a broad and open-minded scholar, one who could see through all worldly affairs!
At this moment, Ling Tian’s crisp voice sounded, and he actually recited the whole poem in a single breath!
"The flock of geese migrating in autumn, one can enjoy a drink while viewing this scenery.
With the hopes of cruising the skies in flight, desiring to embrace the bright moon in one’s arms.
Just like how severing a stream with a knife increases its flow, drowning one’s sorrows with wine brings more sorrows
One cannot do as he desires in life, waiting for the time he has the freedom to float around in life!"
While the poem was already recited fully, the whole hall remained silent for a long time. Finally, someone began to lightly applaud, waking everyone up from their daze with the whole hall breaking out in thunderous applause!
What a beautiful poem this was! What a poem filled with wisdom! What an unrestrained mood! What a wise poem fully clear about worldly affairs!
What a talent he was! Even calling Ling Tian an outstanding talent wouldn’t be enough to describe one percent of Ling Tian’s talent!
Such a beautiful poem would definitely be passed on for generations to come! Ling Tian’s name would also be passed on with this poem, living on eternally!
As the applause died down, a white-haired old scholar walked forward with his body swaying. Everyone present could recognize this old scholar, he was well-renowned in the scholarly circle and was the publicly acknowledged number one scholar, Rong ZhiYu from Western Han. XiMen Qing was the disciple that he was the proudest of! Who would have thought that he would be present today? Rong ZhiYu had an upright character and was more knowledgeable than others, gaining respect from all scholars in the world! Seeing his teacher coming forward, XiMen Qing quickly went forward to support him.
Letting out a long sigh, Rong ZhiYu shook off XiMen Qing’s support and looked towards the crowd, "We are now in the territory of Sky Bearing and this old man shouldn’t be poking my nose in! However, this old man just cannot help but say something. I need to ask all the scholars in Sky Bearing something!"
Rong ZhiYu pointed at Ling Tian with his frail arms as his fingertip trembled and his voice turned hoarse. It was as though it took all he had to shout out, "Such a talent cannot even be described with the words ‘overflowing talent’ and he is a one in a thousand years genius! How did he become the number one silkpants in all of your eyes?! Are the people of Sky Bearing really that talented?"
"How can all of you even be fit to be called scholars?" Rong ZhiYu shouted, "Before this old man came here, everyone would only be filled with disdain towards the name ‘Ling Tian’. There were even some who told their children that it was better to be someone without talent than become like Ling Tian." Rong ZhiYu began laughing as tears filled his eyes, "This old man was still wondering just how horrible of a character young noble Ling must be! Now that I finally know the truth, it is really completely laughable! Completely lamentable! Completely intolerable! This is a complete destruction of something so beautiful! It is really like the saying, ‘The lack of talent is a virtue, who can be compared to Ling Tian?’ The foolishness of the world can really be seen!"
"Young noble Ling, this old man apologizes for my prejudice towards you before today!" As he said that, Rong ZhiYu gave a bow to Ling Tian. Before Ling Tian could even reply, Rong ZhiYu had already straightened his back and shouted, "Today, this old man will shamelessly give a title to Ling Tian on behalf of the scholars in the world! With young noble Ling’s age and talent, while there may be others like him in the future, he is definitely the first in history! He is definitely capable of being the number one poet in the world! Does anyone have an objection?"


Ever met someone who started cultivating from his mother’s womb? 
He does not care for his image, willing to take all steps necessary to ensure his plans succeed!
Watch Ling Tian, martial arts genius, who crossed from the modern world to the ancient times, bringing with him all his memories from his past self!
A person with high comprehension talent, blessed with the gift of eloquence as well as a burning desire to be the best!
Join us as we follow Ling Tian’s adventures in this new world has appeared in! Watch as he plays with the politics of the court and of the Great Families, and how he finds his allies which will help him to conquer this world!
(Hi all, Chuchutrain here. Our Patreon is officially up and running! Please visit us @ https://www.patreon.com/LegendofLingTian :) Thank you for your support!)

Days continued uneventfully for Meixiang as the girl would either be at the Zhao or Lin estate. 

After the Prime Minister brought forward the wedding invitation to the Empress for approval, everyone in the country soon learn of the wedding date. By the end of the year, Zhao Meixiang will marry Lin Heng as his official wife. 

While Lin Heng's reputation as a intelligent young scholar and strategists is far and wide, Zhao Meixiang was relatively unknown. Other than being the Viscount's lovely daughter, not much else is known about her. 

Because the second male lead, is after all, a good catch, he has several young maiden admirers; thus, those very admirers wanted to know who the lucky girl was to catch someone like Lin Heng. On the other side, Lin Heng's friends and acquaintances were also curious to know who his fiancé was - since Lin Heng never disclose any information about Meixiang. Just like that, Zhao Meixiang became the talk of the country with everyone wanting to know what she was like.                  

The Royal Spring Banquet was the best opportunity for everyone to see who the mysterious Zhao Meixiang. Normally only daughters and sons of first and second rank Duke or Marquise can attend royal banquets, so as a daughter of a 2nd rank Viscount, Meixiang never had the opportunity to attend such banquets. But the Royal Spring Banquet was rarely thrown by the reclusive Empress Dowager who hadn't hosted any events in the last 10 years, so had extended the invitation to all young maiden of the 1st or 2nd rank official of any position. The invitation had many young maiden very happy and excited as it was the best opportunity for them to create a good image before the royal family.                  

Zhao Meixiang, on the other hand, was not as excited as many others was. For an engaged young woman, there was really no gain on her end to attend such banquet. If anything, it's stressful. To maintain proper representation for her father on one end and to uphold her image toward her future husband family on the other end. At these type of banquets, young maiden are often use as a source of entertainment. Dancing, music, poetry, or painting, everything is through the young women who put themselves out there to be seen as potential brides for sons of nobility or aristocratic families. Meixiang understood the intention and only sneer inside at the idea of being used as entertainment.

  "Good daughter, do not be nervous and try to enjoy yourself"                  

The Banquet was hosted in the largest garden in the Imperial City. In the center of the banquet hall was the largest tent made with pure gold. As expected, the Emperor, Empress, Empress Dowager, princes, and princess all sat within the open tent. Then to each side of the golden tent held two rows of ten silver tents for each officials and their family. With the Viscount rank and position, Meixiang and her father sat on the Right row, eight position from the top - practically at the end of the row. 

From the Viscount's tent, Meixiang could barely see the royal family or Lin Heng who sat in the Prime Minister's tent at the top of the Left row. Even the female lead seat was better than hers with the first rank Duke being next to the Prime Minister. Instead of nervous, Meixiang felt bored out of her mind. The entertainment had been closer up front so her view was always of people's back. 

But not wanting to cause her father's concern, Meixiang gave a light smile and kept her boredom hidden. Seeing his daughter's usual graceful behavior, the Viscount was pleased and continued to watch the event.                  

It didn't take long before the female lead made her grand appearance. As the fourth prince's future consort and was well liked by the Emperor and Empress, the young woman was soon called forward to give her performance. Everyone already knew of Liu Jiaying's talents so watched with admiration as she played the Guzheng. And being the story's female lead, it was expected that everyone was entrance by her music and beauty. Listening quietly, Meixiang smiles were unreadable. When Liu Jiaying finished, everyone applaud loudly. The Empress was a known music lover so was very happy with Liu Jiaying's performance. No one was surprised with the Empress gifted a rare Guzheng to the young woman. 

 "Jiaying has long heard Viscount Zhao's daughter, Lady Meixiang's talents. If Lady Meixiang does not mind, Jiaying wish to play a duet with her"                  

All of a sudden, Meixiang was called forward by the female lead. Startled, Meixiang hadn't expected to be called out. On top of that, the female lead actually is taunting a small character like herself? Sneering inside, Meixiang could take a guess it was due to Lin Heng. It seems the female lead does not like her so-call good friend being stolen by another woman. Meixiang wondered how the fourth prince was feeling? Did he care that his woman was taunting his best friend's fiancé? Or was he foolish not to see the female lead's aim?                  

While everyone attention suddenly turned to Viscount Zhao and his daughter, Meixiang could see how her father's face went slightly cold. With a soft smile, she understood the Viscount was unhappy on her behalf. Even if the man was seen as cunning fox in court, at home, the man was a good, kind father. So for her to behave as a good daughter was only normal. 

Standing up quietly, Meixiang did not make any move to leave the tent. Instead, she bow properly toward the royal tent. 

 "Zhao Meixiang is untalented. How can this small status Meixiang think to perform a duet with Lady Liu? If Meixiang caused others to laugh, and thus, harm Lady Liu's reputation, how can Meixiang live with herself?" Meixiang's voice was clear and sweet like always. "Instead, please allow Meixiang to impart with a poem which was inspired by Lady Liu's beautiful performance"                  

Everyone was amazed by Zhao Meixiang's response to Liu Jiaying's request. Admitted to having no talent is one thing, but Meixiang boosted Liu Jiaying's talent as if it was untouchable showed her humility. With a response like that, Liu Jiaying was unable to refute. 

 "Oh, then let's hear your poem" The Emperor, on the other hand, was intrigued by the lovely voice.  

"Meixiang obeys his royal majesty and hopes that Lady Liu would laugh at her poor poem"                  

Giving another proper bow, Meixiang lifted her head and begin to recite.  

My Soul, there is a world  Far beyond the heavens  
All the dexterous in the wars  
Where swords and arrows cease  
Sweet Peace lay, sleeping with smiles  
And the Crown born with wings  
Commanding Peace and Joy  Our Souls, there is a country  
Here in this world  Flower blooming, Spring everywhere  
Sweet Peace sits, forever smiling
  And the Crown spread wings  
Give Peace and Joy                  


Meixiang's poem was met with silence. Liu Jiaying's music was a well known piece written by the previous Emperor to his Empress - who now the Empress Dowager herself. Everyone had thought the music expressed love and affection, yet Meixiang's poem was that of peace. Moreover, no one had ever heard such a heart-moving poem which meant the young woman had created herself. Hearing it made anyone feel thankful to be living in a time of peace. Meixiang had indirectly implied her thankful toward the Royal Family for providing peace to the Country. It had been much more powerful than Liu Jiaying who had played originally to please the Empress Dowager.

  "Very good" The Empress Dowager's soft but fervent voice carried through the banquet.                  

The Empress Dowager who had not spoken since the beginning of the banquet had only said two words. But the two words was more rewarding than any young maiden had wished to receive.  

"Yes" The Emperor agreed and clapped with a smile. "A very good poem"                  

Everyone immediately applaud after the Emperor. Meixiang bowed graciously before she sat back down behind her father and away from anyone's clear view. The Viscount with a proud smile, even sat up straighter.

Ye Lingchen's voice was not too loud and he spoke as calmly as the water's surface, yet an inexplicable strength was present as it resounded in everyone's ears.
'Debasement is the password of the base, nobility the epitaph of the noble!'
The first sentence alone shook the audience like thunder, silencing everyone. For a while, the clamor on the scene died down and they all looked at Ye Lingchen.
It was poetry! Modern poetry!
God Ye knew how to create poetry?
Everyone was stunned.
Ye Lingchen used a modern poem to answer the interviewer's questions, and the title of that poem was called The Answer!
Ye Lingchen was, without a doubt, the main character there. Even Hyun-Min Kim's diehard fans stopped cursing and wanted to hear what he had to say!
Zhao Liangying looked over!
So did Chen Xiaoyan!
Ye Lingchen literary talent was clear to see, considering his ability to write such a brilliant song and create an excellent crosstalk script in a hurry.
The leaders, superstars, reporters, and Sergeant Gao's team of policemen were all transfixed on Ye Lingchen.
When the last sentence 'they are the pictographs from five thousand years, they are the watchful eyes of future generations' ended, everyone still had yet to come back from their senses.
Modern poetry was known as modern poetry because it was not complicated. It was easy to discern their underlying meaning from the literal sentences alone.
It was not as obscure as ancient poetry and classical Chinese.
The scene before Ye Lingchen made him unpleasantly depressed, which then allowed him to answer!
After speaking, Ye Lingchen's gaze seemed rather distant. He looked at the stars and the bright moon surrounded by the boundless night sky.
The group of girls were at the peak of their youth and were the gems of their motherland, yet they lost themselves in a Stick Nation superstar that went so far as to look down on them and detest them. Meanwhile, those reporters relinquished the moral principles of their jobs, willing to slander and twist the truth just for the sake of getting attention.
In an era of somewhat free speech, everyone was still surprisingly dumb.
Loss, sorrow, and anger had finally reverted to calm.
The Answer was an expression of his inner thoughts.
Many veteran celebrities were silent, and many of the older generation among the crowd took a deep breath. They could not believe that such a poem could be written by a young man like him.
The person in charge of the Spring Festival Gala felt ashamed and the security guards lowered their heads.
The reporters stopped talking and no one asked any more questions.
That one poem alone silenced the crowd. Everyone felt suffocated and speechless, with Ye Lingchen's poem echoing constantly in their consciousness.
Why did Ye Lingchen assault Hyun-Min Kim?
Were those reporters unaware of the reasons? Were those diehard fans blind as to why?
They were just pretending to be unsure.
Others sneered, thinking that Ye Lingchen was an idiot by bringing upon himself so much trouble just for such an insignificant issue. Violence was not the way to solve a problem.
Would Ye Lingchen be oblivious to that fact? Was Ye Lingchen stupid?
Did he not know the consequences of doing that? He knew, of course!
What else was it for if not for the dignity of their country and the pride of their people!
However, all those people were just feigning ignorance, putting themselves first before matters of principle. Judgmental though they might be, they would rather neglect their own beliefs.
They were precisely the ones in the first sentence of Ye Lingchen's The Answer: 'Debasement is the password of the base, nobility the epitaph of the noble!'
Ye Lingchen could not just ignore what happened that day.
It was the Spring Festival—a holiday for the Chinese nation. The sight of the Chinese being so depraved was truly heartbreaking!
Ye Lingchen walked away slowly.
Everyone was still quiet and merely watched silently as he left.
"Let's go."
Ye Lingchen walked to Sergeant Gao and remarked calmly.
"You " Sergeant Gao stared blankly at Ye Lingchen.
"I assaulted someone, so it's only right that I go to the police station and have my statement taken." Ye Lingchen spoke in a nonchalant and relaxed tone as if going to the police station was like going home.
As far as he was concerned, it was no different from going home, because...he was a sentinel!
"Mm, please get in the car." Sergeant Gao immediately led Ye Lingchen into the police vehicle.
Meanwhile, the other policemen gathered around Hyun-Min Kim and said coldly, "Bring him away! "
"Blabla!" Hyun-Min Kim's expression changed suddenly and he pointed angrily at the police, "Blablabla!"
"We're the victims. Where's the law? On what grounds are you arresting us?" one of the bodyguards asked.
Despite their fear of Ye Lingchen, it did not in any way signify that they were afraid of other people. So what, if they faced the police? They had privileges, and everyone who met them treated them with the utmost courtesy!
"You gathered here for a public fight, resulting in disorder and disturbance! Bring them away!"
"We were assaulted! "
"Didn't you fight back? There are even more people on your side! Whatever it is, head over to the police station for your statement to be taken! Please cooperate with our work!"
Hyun-Min Kim became speechless, and they were led one by one into the police car.
Before getting into the car, Hyun-Min Kim was still cursing and was very much upset.
"God Ye!" Everyone snapped back to reality at that point and many began looking worryingly at Ye Lingchen.
"Hyun-Min Kim's bodyguard was the first person who pushed the girl. Plus, they were ones who chose to surround God Ye and start attacking!"
"Exactly, why are you bringing God Ye away!"
"I can testify that God Ye was being over-defensive at most!"
The masses began rallying against Ye Lingchen's injustice.
Sergeant Gao immediately clarified, "We're not arresting anyone. He's just coming with us to the station to help with the investigation. Don't worry, everyone! "
"Go home, everyone. Don't worry about me." Ye Lingchen smiled casually.
As Ye Lingchen, Hyun-Min Kim, and the others were taken away, things came to an end and the crowd gradually dispersed.
The impact, however, was nothing short of huge and caused a nationwide stir!
At that time of the year, everyone would be talking about the Spring Festival Gala, its programs, or its stars. It was the same across the board, whether it was television channels, media, or on the internet.
Despite that, the convention had been broken that year. After the Spring Festival Gala's broadcast, the topic on everyone's mouths was the assault incident!
Midnight marked the new year, which was welcomed with a cheer from everyone after the countdown. However, everyone was getting ready for bed when a viral piece of news spread like wildfire on the internet. It came like a landslide and a tsunami, dispelling the people of their sleepiness.
"F*ck? F*ck? F*ck?"
"F*ck! Did God Ye beat Hyun-Min Kim up?!"
"Goodness me, are you sure that the pig-headed guy in this photo was Hyun-Min Kim?"
"Please prove that this Hyun-Min Kim is really Hyun-Min Kim. That guy doesn't look anything like him, except for his clothes..."
"He's been assaulted so terribly. His mother might not even recognize him anymore."
"Hahaha, well played! This sissy boy has irked me for a long time. Long live the mighty God Ye!"
"F*cking hell? Is he okay after being clobbered like this? God Ye's balls are pretty huge."
"Is this fake news? Can anyone share the entire incident?"
"Upstairs, your news is a bit too late. Weibo, Douyin, Toutiao, WeChat Moments, and other chat groups are all being spammed! "
...


Ye Lingchen was a regular high schooler who struggled with exams and expectations from his parents.
All that changed after he woke up from a strange dream and discovered that he had been granted the 'Prodigy System'. His life changed from this point on. Reading a book allowed him to learn its content immediately. Listening to lectures granted instant understanding of the lesson. Observation of a technique imprinted knowledge of the technique used.
Learning had never been so easy, and as the saying goes, knowledge is power. In this case, he now had access to a ton of unbridled power. 
What does it feel like to become a 'prodigy' overnight? Follow Ye Lingchen on this journey to discover the limitless possibilities...

spring poem novel

A Midnight Summers Eve

Ultimate Scheming System

The System Forces Me to Be the Emperor

I'm the MC, Why Do I Suck at Cultivation

Transmigrated As My Former Uncle's Sweetheart

Reverend Insanity

I’m Really a Superstar

Legend of Ling Tian

***^

I Am A Prodigy

People search spring poem also like: