"Se... Senior?"
"Did Liu shi and the others just call Zhang Xuan their senior?"
"He isn't even twenty. On the other hand, the three master teachers are at minimum sixty or seventy. Where is the logic..."
"I've no idea, but... from the looks of it, the three master teachers don't seem to be feigning anything. Can Zhang laoshi truly be that incredible?"
It was as though the crowd had been struck by lightning.
Shocks came like waves today, crashing down on them one after another. They felt as though they were unable to keep up anymore and their heart had reached their limits.
"Is... is he a senior to Liu shi and his company? Can it be..."
Narrowing his eyes, Emperor Shen Zhui seemed to have thought of something as he shuddered.
As the three master teachers had been residing in the palace, he had come into contact with them frequently and knew of their intentions.
They had been trying to acknowledge Yang Xuan as their teacher and given how they were addressing Zhang Xuan as their senior now, no matter how foolish he was, it was impossible for him to not understand what was going on.
"Zhang Xuan laoshi is... Yang shi's student. Furthermore, he is a... direct disciple!"
His breathing quickened.
Yang shi was able to help even the dying Shen Hong reach Zongshi realm, showing the incredible capabilities he possessed. According to Liu shi and the others' conjecture, he was likely to be at minimum a 3-star master teacher.
Such incredible figures often come and go as they please. It was completely possible for him to vanish into thin air within a few days' time.
But if Zhang Xuan was his direct disciple, it would make things much easier. He could make use of Zhang Xuan as a bridge to tie Yang shi to Tianxuan Kingdom.
Even if he were to be unable to bind such a superpower, Yang shi and the others would also find it hard to reject him, given that their senior, Zhang Xuan, hails from Tianxuan Kingdom.
If so, it is only a matter of time before the kingdom rises through the ranks!
If he had thought previously that being a rank less senior than Zhang Xuan was embarrassing, right now, his eyes were glowing and he regarded it as an honor.
Given that Zhang Xuan had managed to acknowledge Yang Xuan as his teacher, it was just a matter of time before he becomes a master teacher. Putting aside calling him uncle, even calling him grandpa would be nothing much.
As the sovereign of a country, he shouldered the responsibility over the entire kingdom in his hands. He had long learned to weigh matters in terms of cost and benefits. The so-called identity, seniority and such were only mere methods of address to him.
Besides, Liu shi and the others were considered as peers with his grandfather, Shen Hong. Given that Zhang Xuan was their senior, he was lucky to be able to get off with addressing Zhang Xuan as his uncle.
"S... S... Senior? The three master teachers' senior?"
While everyone was dumbfounded, Lu Xun stuttered in astonishment.
The reason why he was so against Zhang laoshi previous was that he was vying with him for the opportunity to come under the three master teachers' apprenticeship. Yet... Not only was the other party unbothered, he actually turned out to be a senior to the three master teachers...
In an instant, he felt as though he had been a clown.
After such a huge farce, it emerged that the other party didn't care for what he had valued so highly. Just by revealing his identity, he could easily destroy him.
Grandmaster painter, an expert at the Way of Tea, official apothecary (Given the number of apothecaries that had appeared in the academy, Wang Chao and him immediately knew of Zhang Xuan's identity as an apothecary), the brother of his father, senior of the three master teachers...
Just any single one of those identities was sufficiently imposing, but at this moment, it was all gathered on a seemingly unimpressive teacher... Shivering violently, he felt lost.
He had always thought that he was a genius, and even without his father's help, he could make a name for himself. But now, he realized that his so-called talents meant nothing in comparison to the other party.
Honestly speaking... This blow had caused him to doubt the purpose of life itself!
He was feeling completely loss when he heard Liu shi's voice echo by his ears.
"Lu laoshi is indeed a rare talent. From back then, I had heard of his reputation in Beiwu Kingdom and the reason why I came here was to welcome him as my apprentice. Since senior has spoken on his behalf... Lu Xun. are you willing to become my apprentice?"
Liu Ling looked at Lu Xun with a smile.
Even if he was unable to accept Zhang Xuan as his apprentice, the trip would also have been worth it if he was able to recruit Lu Xun. Besides, his senior clearly intended to resolve the grudge, and he was glad to give him a hand.
"I'm willing..."
Awakening from his daze, Lu Xun's body froze in agitation.
All of his hard work was for this. He thought that he would be doomed after losing the Teacher Evaluation, and never in his dreams did he expect that his wish would be fulfilled so abruptly.
"Yes... Zhang Xuan, oh, no, Uncle Zhang... Teacher!"
Even though Liu shi had said it in that manner, Lu Xun knew that his reputation only played a minor part. More importantly, it was due to Zhang laoshi's recommendation.
Despite me treating him like that, he was willing to recommend me to Liu shi!
What is this magnanimity?
Clenching his fists tightly, Lu Xun's eyes turned red.
"This is the attitude that a teacher should have. Xun-er, you must learn from Master Zhang!"
By the side, Lu Chen, who had witnessed the entire scene, commented.
He had heard the entire matter from Huang Yu, and as such, he knew how much trouble this unfilial son of his had brought to Zhang Xuan. Yet, the other party didn't say a word of criticism. On the other hand, he even helped him to become a master teacher's apprentice. Just his magnanimity showed that he was no ordinary person.
"Yes!" Lu Xun nodded his head.
Only at this moment did he realize how ridiculous his actions had been.
While he was still thinking about how he should become an apprentice of the three master teachers, his rival had already become their senior. While he was thinking about becoming an official painter, the other party was already a grandmaster. While he was thinking about breaking through Pixue realm, the other party was already at Tongxuan realm pinnacle...
That was the distance between them.
"Zhang laoshi, I was foolish in the past and have offended you on multiple occasions. Please forgive me!"
"It's alright as long as you are willing to change! I hope that you will learn properly under Liu shi's guidance in future and quickly become a true master teacher!" Seeing how the other party was willing to let bygones be bygones, Zhang Xuan nodded his head in satisfaction.
In actual fact, he didn't hold much resentment toward this Lu Xun.
Based on the memories belonging to his previous self, this fellow had taught numerous incredible students ever since entering the academy. He had practically no bad track records, and it was mainly due to his competitive nature and his desire to surpass his incredible father that he committed so many mistakes.
"Yes!" Lu Xun nodded his head earnestly. Then, he turned to Liu Ling and asked, "Liu shi, may I beseech you on a matter?"
"Feel free to speak!"
Liu shi said as he stroked his beard.
Seeing that Lu Xun was sincere in wanting to turn over a new leaf, he felt delighted as well.
"In order for me to win this battle, my students had consumed [Insane Demon Breakthrough Pill] and there are likely to be heavy and detrimental side effects. I hope that Liu shi can resolve this issue."
Lu Xun knelt down.
"Teacher..."
Witnessing the situation, Zhu Hong and the others clenched their fists tightly and their eyes turned red.
With the matter exposed, Lu laoshi's reputation would definitely be affected greatly. Even so, for their future, he was willing to reveal it all in public. Just his consideration for his student itself was worthy of awe.
Mo Xiao, who had thought of acknowledging Zhang Xuan as his teacher previously, upon seeing Lu laoshi's actions, felt touched. After contemplating over the matter for awhile, he glanced at Lu Xun once more and made up his mind with a new resolve.
While incredible teachers got to chose their students, talented students were also qualified to choose their own teachers.
The reason why he wanted to acknowledge Zhang Xuan was because Lu laoshi's recent actions and performance were disappointing. However, upon seeing this, he realized that the formidable Lu laoshi of the past, the number star teacher of Hongtian Academy, was back.
Only with a big heart can one surpass all odds.
At that instant, the intention to come under Zhang Xuan's tutelage disappeared.
"Insane Demon Breakthrough Pill? That is one of the forbidden medicine which forcefully raises one's cultivation. Even though it can induce a rapid rise in cultivation, the remanant toxins of the pill will sink into one's meridians, causing one's cultivation speed to become increasingly slower. This will affect their future achievements! To have had them consume these things was equivalent to ruining the future of these kids... Lu Xun, you are truly foolish!"
Taken aback by Lu Xun's words, Liu Ling shook his head.
"Yes, I know that I was reckless. Liu shi, I beg of you to help them!"
Lu Xun pleaded earnestly.
He also knew the aftereffects of consuming the pill, but the humiliation he felt yesterday had blinded his judgment. His desire to win in this Teacher Evaluation had caused him to commit the mistake in a moment of folly.
"Insane Demon Breakthrough Pill is a pill which forcefully drags out one's potential by tapping into his lifeforce. My skills are still insufficient to treat such conditions!"
Liu Ling sighed.
If the trauma from such medicine could be solved that easily, everyone would have bought one to hasten the growth of their cultivation.
It was because there was no way to solve the trauma that it became a forbidden pill.
Even as a master teacher, Liu Ling was helpless before the matter.
"You cannot treat it?"
Lu Xun's face turned pale.
He thought that he could solve their problem once he became a master teacher, but now, it seemed that his thinking was too naive.
If even Liu shi was incapable of treating the trauma, didn't it mean that for his own selfish motive, he had ruined the lives of several students?
Intense self-reproach struck at Lu Xun's conscience.
"All of you consumed the Insane Demon Breakthrough Pill?"
Zheng Yang heard the conversation clearly from the side. He rushed to the side of his good buddy hurriedly and questioned him anxiously.
"Yes!" Mo Xiao nodded his head.
"You..." Zheng Yang clenched his fists rightly.
It was true that consuming the Insane Demon Breakthrough Pill would help one to achieve a breakthrough in their cultivation within a short period of time, but climbing to greater heights in future would become immensely difficult.
It was no different from pulling a seedling for it to grow faster.
Having grown up with Mo Xiao, he knew that his buddy was as obsessed over strength as him. The other party would definitely be unable to bear the burden of watching his own cultivation slow down, and eventually fall behind the others.
"Zhang laoshi, I beg of you, please save Mo Xiao!"
Gritting his teeth, Zheng Yang ran to Zhang Xuan and knelt down.
In his mind, Zhang laoshi was omnipotent. Even if Liu shi was helpless before the matter, Zhang laoshi would definitely be able to do the impossible.
"Save him?"
Hearing the plea of his student, Zhang Xuan nodded his head, "Alright!"
Back then, during the Teacher Evaluation, when Mo Xiao and the others executed their battle techniques, he was able to immediately identify their problems. The trauma left by the Insane Demon Breakthrough Pill is actually toxin that the medicine leaves in one's body. While 3-star or even 4-star master teachers would be helpless before the matter, Zhang Xuan possessed the ability to treat them.
The Heaven's Path zhenqi was clear and pure as though water. Regardless of how incredible those toxins were, by infusing his zhenqi within, Zhang Xuan would be able to easily flush them out.
He was even able to suppress a seemingly sentient poison aura who was able to escape his assault, what challenge can mere pill toxins pose?
"You can save them?"
Hearing the other party agree to it so readily, Liu shi and the others were taken aback.
Without explaining anything, Zhang Xuan had Mo Xiao come over. Grabbing his hands, he sent a surge of zhenqi into the other party's meridians. Soon, the toxins were all expelled.
Sensing the change in his body, Mo Xiao was so agitated that his body trembled.
After consuming the pill, he clearly felt something restraining his body from within, but at this instant, the inhibition disappeared completely. The shackles that limited his cultivation had disappeared completely.
"Thank you, Zhang laoshi for treating me!"
Knowing that the side effect of the Insane Demon Breakthrough Pill had been resolved, Mo Xiao immediately knelt to the ground in gratitude.
"It's treated already?"
Liu Ling could not believe what had happened. He walked over hurriedly and sent a surge of zhenqi into Mo Xiao's body. After taking a look within, his eyes widened, "It's... It's true!"
Zhang laoshi had so casually resolved something, which he was helpless about, right before his eyes...
What is that amazing capability?
It is no wonder that he was able to catch Yang shi's eyes and become their senior. His means are simply too incredible!
Watching the sight, Lu Xun knelt before Zhang Xuan and pleaded, "Uncle Zhang, I beg of you to treat the others as well!"
This time, he had called out 'Uncle Zhang' willingly and sincerely.
"Un!"
It wouldn't take much of his effort to treat these few people. Zhang Xuan nodded his head and soon, the traumas of Lu Xun's five students were completely resolved.
The only hassle that emerged was with Zhu Hong. As he hadn't fought at all, there wasn't any book compiled on him. Thus, Zhang Xuan had to have him execute a battle technique before he was able to pinpoint the locations of the toxins.
Looking at the glowing faces of his students, Lu Xun felt truly impressed by Zhang laoshi.
In the world, there exists a kind of person who, even though you two started on the same footing, end up on completely different levels!
They are beings which one can only look up to, with no hope of catching up with.
Clearly, Zhang laoshi is such a... godlike person!
Lu Xun was completely impressed with the other party and had decided to set him as his ultimate goal when he saw this godlike person looking at him with a wide grin.
"Um... Lu laoshi, do you still have any more of these Insane Demon Breakthrough Pill? Or... Maybe you can tell me where you bought it? Can you buy a few for me? If it can raise one's cultivation by an entire realm so quickly, will eating more of it allow one's cultivation to soar several realms at once?"
"..." Lu Xun.
"..." Liu Ling and the others.
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Chapter 227: State of Insight
Translator: StarveCleric Editor: GaiaNove
Of course, Zhang Xuan knew that it was impossible.
As an apothecary, he knew that no matter how incredible a medicine was, a person would gradually gain increasing immunity to it the more they consume, needless to say, pills that raises one's cultivation.
After treating their traumas and resolving the grudge between him and Lu Xun, he was finally done with everything here. Just as the teacher-in-charge was about to announce the start of the Freshmen Tournament, countless students rushed to the stage suddenly, their eyes reddened with agitation. They stared at Zhang Xuan fervently, as if they were voracious wolves looking at their prey.
"Zhang laoshi, I hope to come under your tutelage. Will you accept me as your student?"
"I beg of you, please accept me. Not only am I talented, I can help you pack your bed and do your housework..."
"Actually, I've always revered you. Even if I can't become your student, I don't mind just listening in to your classes..."
"Teacher, my clan is rich. As long as you accept me as your student, money isn't a problem!"
"Money money, money your head! Scram, do you think that Zhang laoshi is a materialistic person? But Zhang laoshi, if you really want... My clan is also rich, so please accept me as your student..."
His incredible performance in the Teacher Evaluation, as well as his ability to solve a problem which stumped the three master teachers, had sent all of the students here into a frenzy. They could no longer hold themselves back and charged forward in an attempt to acknowledge him as their teacher.
In an instant, an uproar broke out in the dueling ring.
All those doubts that they carried for Zhang laoshi had disappeared without a trace. Countless students pushed one another to get nearer to Zhang laoshi, afraid that to miss this opportunity.
There were even a few who felt so regretful that they wanted to commit suicide. They felt that if they hadn't been so blind back then to listen to all sorts of rumors, they would have already become Zhang laoshi's students.
If they had acknowledged him at the very start of the school term, the ones who had shone on the stage wouldn't have been Zheng Yang and the others, but them!
One has to know that Zheng Yang and the others were far from being at the top of the batch, and Yuan Tao was the very last in the cohort.
But at this moment, even Yuan Tao was able to force Lu laoshi back with his charge. The scene of how he forcefully restrained Lu laoshi was still fresh in their mind, and the thought of it agitated them.
From a student, who had barely made it into the academy, to become an expert who can threaten even a Pixue realm expert within half a month... If they hadn't witnessed it personally, they would have never thought this to be possible.
"This..." Zhang Xuan was astounded as well.
Clearly, he didn't expect that his actions would cause such a stir.
"Teacher... has finally regained his prestige after that all he has gone through!"
Upon realizing what was happening, Zhao Ya and the others clenched their fists tightly.
Ever since Lu Xun challenged Zhang laoshi, they had been suffocated with anger and indignance. These emotions motivated them to work hard to bring honor and glory to their teacher, and now... They have finally done it!
Zhang laoshi's brilliance was finally being recognized.
A special pride welled up within them.
At that moment, it was as if they wanted to shout to the whole world proudly...
Look, this is my teacher...
Zhang Xuan!
...
"I already have five students and I don't intend to accept any other students anytime soon. However, given how passionate all of you appear to be, how about this, I can conduct a lecture on the fundamentals of cultivation, and perhaps, it would be useful!"
Knowing that he will die of fatigue if he were to accept so many students, Zhang Xuan hesitated for a moment before coming up with an idea.
Just these five students had caused him to almost go bankrupt. If he were to accept so many students at once... He probably wouldn't even have the money to eat!
"Zhang laoshi is not accepting any students?"
"But listening to his lecture is good as well..."
Finding out that Zhang Xuan wasn't intending to accept any students, everyone felt disappointed initially. However, upon hearing that Zhang Xuan would conduct a lecture for them, the glow on their faces returned.
With the ability to induce such a rapid growth in Zheng Yang and the others, how can his lesson be anything ordinary?
"This lecture on the fundamentals of cultivation will be held tomorrow afternoon, the location right here. Those who wish to attend can come earlier, but for today, let's proceed with the Freshmen Tournament!"
After addressing and calming down the crowd, Zhang Xuan left the dueling ring.
If he doesn't leave now, he might really end up eaten by those frenzied students.
Besides, the Freshmen Tournament should be the main show of the day. The Teacher Evaluation can only be considered as an appetizer, and he shouldn't steal the spotlight from the event.
Right after he returned back to his classroom, the three master teachers followed in swiftly.
"Senior!"
The three of them clasped their hands.
"Un! Please be seated. Actually, I have something that I'll need to trouble you with!" Zhang Xuan smiled.
"You're Yang shi's direct disciple while we're only his students. As our senior, please feel free to give us instructions. It's no trouble at all..."
Liu Ling smiled awkwardly.
Even as fellow students, a hierarchy exists. Direct disciples possess the highest standing, and other students have to address them as 'senior' regardless of their cultivation realm or age.
As juniors, it was only right for them to obey the commands of their seniors.
"It's like that!" Seeing them agree to the matter so readily, Zhang Xuan nodded his head and continued. "You know that Yang shi likes to travel about and rarely gets involved with worldly affairs. Even though he has accepted me as his direct disciple, he had only instructed me to study on my own and he hadn't officialized my identity in the records... Thus, I might need to trouble you three for my master teacher examination!"
The reason why he accepted them as his students was for this. Since it wasn't convenient for 'Yang shi' to bring the matter up, Zhang Xuan could only bring it up himself.
"Oh, I was thinking what kind of matter it was. This isn't difficult." Liu Ling smiled. "In order to take the master teacher examination, one has to be at least an assistant master teacher. Since Yang shi has decided to retreat from the spotlight and it isn't suitable for him to reveal his identity, the three of us can do it in his place."
As he spoke, he flicked his wrist, retrieved a jade token, and passed it to Zhang Xuan.
"This is an identity jade token with our aura in it. As long as you carry it with you, you will be recognized as an assistant master teacher whom we have tested and acknowledged. You just have to drip a drop of blood on it in order to claim ownership, and thereafter, no matter which Master Teacher Pavilion you go to, you will be identified as our apprentice, thus giving you the qualifications to take the master teacher examination."
"Oh? This simple?"
Casually accepting the jade token, Zhang Xuan found the situation unbelievable.
He had always thought that it would be a complicated process, but to think that it would actually be so easy.
"It isn't difficult to become an assistant master teacher. As long as a master teacher recognizes you, all star teachers and high-level teachers are qualified to become an assistant master teacher. The true difficulty lies in meeting the prerequisites to become eligible for the master teacher examination!" Liu Ling said.
"Oh? Then... what are these prerequisites?"
After claiming ownership of the token, Zhang Xuan kept the token and asked.
There were no master teachers in Tianxuan Kingdom and there weren't any records of it in the kingdom's Book Collection Vault either. Even though he had been impersonating a master teacher these few days, he had no idea what the prerequisites were, where he could undergo the examination and other such basic knowledge.
"There are some external and internal conditions one had to meet to be eligible for the master teacher examination. The external conditions are a recommendation from a master teacher, the identity of an assistant master teacher, and at least one supporting occupation!"
Liu Ling explained.
"Un!" Zhang Xuan nodded his head.
He had heard all of these before.
"As for the internal conditions, there are two of them!" Liu Ling continued on. "The conditions are reaching the State of Insight of the Heart of Tranquil Water and Tongxuan realm cultivation!"
"State of Insight?" Zhang Xuan asked doubtfully.
He knew that the Will of Mind 2-dan was Heart of Tranquil Water, but he had never heard of the term 'State of Insight'.
Liu Ling explained, "The Will of Mind is something all cultivators and professionals in all occupations have to temper continuously. The Heart of Tranquil Water is a terminology to refer to the level where one is able to control their mind, allowing them to focus their entire attention on a single task without any influence from external factors."
Zhang Xuan nodded his head.
Liu Ling's words were true. It was precisely because Apothecary Chen Xiao, Apothecary Meng Yan and the others had not reached such a level that their negative emotions affected the Tranquil Heart Pill they forged, causing their pills to lose its original functions.
"There are two classifications to the Heart of Tranquil Water. One relates more to master teachers whereas the other is relevant to normal cultivators and professionals."
"The reason why there are two different classifications is simple. The Heart of Tranquil Water that a master teacher has to achieve is different from what other occupations require. This is also the reason why master teachers are so highly respected."
"The other professionals and cultivators merely have to reach the level of complete tranquility, such that they are released from influence by any external or internal factors. On the other hand, the Heart of Tranquil Water concerning a master teacher is about being able to peer into the essence and discerning truth from false!"
"Discern truth from false, peer into the very essence?"
"Indeed. If you find that hard to understand, let me put it this way. The Heart of Tranquil Water that ordinary cultivators reach is known as the 'State of One'. It is sufficient for them as long as they are able to pour all of their attention into one matter without being distracted by any other factors. On the other hand, the Heart of Tranquil Water relating to master teachers is known as the 'State of Insight'. It grants one the ability to peer into the order of a matter and determine the crux of a problem."
"That's to say, even though they are both at Heart of Tranquil Water, the state which a master teacher reaches is different from that of ordinary humans. Only those who possess the State of Insight of Heart of Tranquil Water are eligible to take the master teacher examination. This is also why apothecary teachers, tea master teachers, formation master teachers, smithing teachers and such aren't master teachers."
With a supporting occupation, one is eligible to take the master teacher examination. Zhang Xuan had been thinking that it was odd that Elder Tian didn't take the master teacher examination even though he was a tea master teacher in Beiwu Academy. It turned out that the crux of the problem laid here.
Without the State of Insight, one is ineligible.
"Then... How should one cultivate to reach the State of Insight of the Heart of Tranquil Water?" Understanding the reason behind it, Zhang Xuan asked.
"How to reach?" Liu Ling, Zhuang Xian, and Zheng Fei glanced at one another before smiling. "There's no way for one to cultivate that state, it's a talent! Those who possess the potential to become a master teacher, upon reaching Heart of Tranquil Water, would reach the State of Insight, granting them the ability to discern truth from false!"
"This is similar to how apothecaries must have the physical constitution of wood element. Without talent, no matter how hard one cultivates, it is impossible to become a master teacher! To use an analogy, no matter how incredible a man is, it is impossible to him to bear children. Without talent, no matter how hard one trains, it will be in vain!"
"Upon reaching the Heart of Tranquil Water... one would be able to discern truth from false?" Gedeng, Zhang Xuan's heart skipped a beat.
He had already reached the Heart of Tranquil Water, but why hadn't he gained such an ability?
"How does one differentiate between State of Insight and State of One?"
"Taking the simplest example, when watching a person execute a battle technique, a person who has reached State of Insight would be able to instinctively analyze the logic behind the moves, arrange them, and infer the best way to cultivate to achieve the optimal effects. On the other hand, a person in the State of One is unable to do the same."
Liu Ling continued, "The reason why master teachers often choose star teachers to become their apprentice is because it is likely that they possess such a talent, for them to have students following them so willingly."
"Instinctively analyze the logic behind battle techniques?"
Zhang Xuan's body shuddered.
The heck, he has long attained the Heart of Tranquil Water, but why hadn't he experienced such an occurrence?
Could it be that... he doesn't have the talent to become a master teacher?
If that is the case, he is doomed.
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Chapter 228: Shouldn't Toy with Someone Like That
Translator: StarveCleric Editor: - - Not too long after his reincarnation, after fusing the soul of his previous self with his own, Zhang Xuan had reached the Heart of Tranquil Water.
All along, he had been depending on the library to look for flaws to determine the crux of the problem. He had never paid attention to his ability to discern truth from fiction. Could it be that… his Heart of Tranquil Water wasn't State of Insight?
If it wasn't the State of Insight, he would be unable to take the master teacher examination. If so, what was the use of having such a powerful library?
This couldn't be true….
Zhang Xuan was on the verge of tears.
But soon, he soon thought of another possibility.
Since the library would compile a book whenever he saw a battle technique, he would refer to it instinctively. With such a cheat code, no one would bother analyzing the logic behind the moves and their orders. Thus, it was still too early to say for sure.
"So… how do you check if a person possesses the State of Insight or State of One?" Zhang Xuan asked upon thinking of this.
"Oh, actually that's simple. I have a [Stone of Insight] here. After holding it and adjusting one's state of mind to reach Heart of Tranquil Water, if numbers appear on it, it means that you possess State of Insight. Otherwise, it means you possess State of One!"
Liu Ling retrieved a green stone. There was a dense congregation of lines on it, making him feel dizzy upon seeing it.
"Of course, there are different levels to State of Insight as well. The higher the number, the more talented one is. If your Soul Depth has reached 3, you are eligible to take the 1-star master teacher examination. Given how Senior has such outstanding results as a teacher and how you caught Yang shi's eyes, you should have already reached 4 or above. This is something that the rest of us are unable to compete with even after we sap our potential dry!"
At this, Liu Ling and the others stared at Zhang Xuan in admiration.
The Soul Depth of one's State of Insight determined the talent of a master teacher. The higher the value, the more one was able to peer into the essence of things, the higher the heights one could reach.
The few of them had barely met the prerequisites for 1-star master teacher. Even though they had been training diligently throughout the years, they had already sapped their potential dry. Even if they reached Zongshi, it was hard to say whether their Soul Depth would reach a level that would allow them to be eligible to take the 2-star master teacher examination.
Given how the youngster before them managed to catch Yang shi's eyes, he likely wielded incredible potential. In their view, his Soul Depth likely exceeded 3. This was precisely the reason why they were willing to call him Senior.
"Can you give me this Stone of Insight?"
"This stone is normally used by master teachers to ascertain one's standards when choosing an apprentice, similar to the Strength Measuring Rock Pillar. As such, I have a few of them here. If Senior wants to use it, feel free to take one!" Liu Ling smiled. "However, given Senior's age, you probably haven't reached Heart of Tranquil Water yet. There's no need for you to panic. You can test it whenever you reach the state!"
"Yeah!" Taking hold of the Stone of Insight, Zhang Xuan lowered his head to take a look at it.
The lines on it were formed naturally. There were no signs of intentional chiseling or such. Somehow, it induced in him the sensation that it was capable of peering into the essence of everything.
"Right, where can I take the master teacher examination?" Keeping hold of the Stone of Insight, Zhang Xuan lifted his head and continued asking.
"The master teacher examination is of course conducted at the Master Teacher Pavilion. The closest branch to Tianxuan Kingdom is at Tier 1 Tianwu Kingdom. There are 2-star master teachers there and a complete facility to conduct the test. In fact, you could even take the 2-star master teacher examination there."
Liu Ling added, "If Senior reaches Heart of Tranquil Water, you can head there and give it a try. As long as you meet all of the prerequisites, you can register for it."
"Great!" Zhang Xuan nodded his head.
"Alright. Senior, if you have any other instructions, feel free to relay them to us. For now, we'll be taking leave!"
After chatting for a while longer, Liu Ling and the others stood up and left.
Seeing them leave, Zhang Xuan flicked his wrist and the Stone of Insight appeared in his palms once more.
"I should test it to see if I possess the State of Insight of Heart of Tranquil Water…."
In this world, the master teachers possessed unparalleled prestige. Becoming one would allow Zhang Xuan to operate much easier, and would also grant space for Zhang Xuan to display the prowess of the Library of Heaven's Path. If he turned out to be lacking talent in that aspect, it would truly be regretful.
Clutching the Stone of Insight with both hands, he adjusted his state of mind and entered the Heart of Tranquil Water. In an instant, all emotions, including his anxiety, disappeared from him.
This was the state that allowed one to rid themselves of their frustration and agitation, allowing one to analyze matters rationally. This was the state that countless cultivators dreamt of.
Just that, to reach such a state, one had to be capable of directing all of their attention onto a single thing. Just by the fact that only the principal of the entire Hongtian Academy had reached such a state showed the difficulty of doing so.
This was the exact reason why Shen Bi Ru nearly fainted from shock when she saw Zhang Xuan reaching this state.
Weng!
Upon reaching the Heart of Tranquil Water, the Stone of Insight in his hands shuddered and numbers slowly floated onto the surface.
Upon seeing that something had appeared on the stone, Zhang Xuan was relieved.
Liu Ling had said that if one only possessed the State of One of the Heart of Tranquil Water, numbers wouldn't appear on the stone. Thus, this meant that he possessed the State of Insight.
It was a huge relief. At least he still wielded the potential to become a master teacher.
Just a while ago, he was still worried about how he wasn't able to see through the logic and order of the battle techniques of others with his own capabilities and that maybe he didn't have such talent. Now, it seemed like he was just overthinking the matter.
No matter what, he was an incredible existence who possessed the Library of Heaven's Path. How could he not even have the potential to become a mere 1-star master teacher?
Heaving a sigh of relief, Zhang Xuan glanced downward to look at the numbers on the Stone of Insight.
If the value reached three, Zhang Xuan would be eligible to take the 1-star master teacher examination. Given his talent, he should be at least 4, 5, or even 6, 7, 8, 9!
Otherwise, it would be unbefitting of his identity.
He thought gleefully as the numbers on the Stone of Insight finally stopped swaying and appeared clearly before him.
Just when he was happily dreaming about taking the master teacher examination and showcasing his overwhelming talent, Zhang Xuan saw the numbers on it. In an instant, his eyeballs nearly popped out of his eyes.
"This… Are you for real?"
Zhang Xuan's face twitched. He was on the verge of tears after seeing the results.
He saw the numbers on the stone—0.1.
You shouldn't toy with someone like that!
According to Liu Ling's words, the average was around 3 or 4. As for the more incredible ones, they reached 5, 6, or even 7. Zhang Xuan thought that even if he wasn't a genius, he should at least reach the borderline for taking the 1-star master teacher examination and obtain a value of '3'. Yet... 0.1, what the heck is this?
Brother, is it even possible to go any lower than that?
"I don't believe it…."
On the verge of tears, Zhang Xuan placed the Stone of Insight in his hands and tried once more.
A moment later.
Staring at the 0.09 on the stone, Zhang Xuan felt as though he had been slapped square on the face. The corners of his lips rapidly twitched.
The heck, you really gave me a lower value!
He had always thought that he was an unparalleled genius, a genius among geniuses, yet… reality slapped him right in the face!
Taking the master teacher examination with such a low Soul Depth? He would just be mocked!
If he were to really go there now, he would be driven out in the next moment.
"I don't believe it…."
After trying it a few times, Zhang Xuan finally accepted the fact that his Soul Depth was truly that low. Every time he tested it, his Soul Depth would be lowered by 0.01, to the point that… it was only 0.05 now.
"The next time I meet Liu Ling and the others, I have to ask them if there's a technique to increase one's Soul Depth. Otherwise, with such a low Soul Depth, becoming a master teacher would be nothing but a dream!"
Suppressing the urge to pass out, Zhang Xuan consoled himself.
Right now, he could only pray that there was a secret technique to raising one's Soul Depth in the Master Teacher Pavilion. By then, he just had to make use of the Library of Heaven's Path, compile a Heaven's Path manual, and raise his State of Insight value swiftly.
Otherwise, given his current value, he wasn't even qualified to be considered a star teacher.
Just when he was contemplating over what he should do about his low Soul Depth, he heard a knock on the door of the classroom.
"Is Zhang Xuan laoshi in?"
"Emperor Shen Zhui?"
Zhang Xuan recognized the voice and said, "Feel free to enter!"
Creak!
The doors opened and two men walked in.
One of them was Emperor Shen Zhui while the other was a middle-aged man. He looked dashing and if Zhang Xuan looked closely, traces of Zhao Ya's features could be seen in him.
"Zhang laoshi, this Zhao Ya's father, City Lord Zhao Feng. He specially made this trip here to thank you for the care and guidance you had shown to his daughter," Emperor Shen Zhui spoke with a humble tone.
Even though the other party wasn't a master teacher yet, he was Yang shi's direct disciple, the senior of the three master teachers.
Before such a person, even as the sovereign of the country, he didn't dare act impudently.
"Zhao Feng pays respect to Zhang laoshi!" City Lord Zhao Feng stepped forward and greeted Zhang Xuan.
"Since you're Zhao Ya's father, there's no need to be so formal. Take a seat!"
Zhang Xuan welcomed them.
"I've heard from Yao Han how Zhang laoshi has taken care of my daughter for the past several days, and I am very grateful to you for that. I know that given Zhang laoshi's identity and strength, you don't lack money. Thus, I had my men search the treasury and they found an [Enlightenment Jade], so I want to give it to you as a show of gratitude!
After exchanging some small talk, City Lord Zhao Feng handed something to him.
"Enlightenment Jade?" Upon seeing the object the other party handed him, Zhang Xuan was perplexed.
"Enlightenment Jade can be absorbed by a cultivator through touch, similar to spiritual energy. Not only can it restore one's expended Soul Depth, it can also slowly increase it. It is what master teachers use to cultivate their State of Mind and it is extremely valuable. Of the countless jade mines in my Baiyu City, I only managed to find a single one," City Lord Zhao Feng explained.
"It can raise one's Soul Depth?" Zhang Xuan's eyes lit up.
His gift truly came at a timely moment.
He was just perplexed over how he could raise his low Soul Depth when City Lord Zhao Feng suddenly sent this Enlightenment Jade his way. This was great!
"Such a valuable object… how can I accept this?" Zhang Xuan felt embarrassed.
It was clear to see how valuable it was, given that there was only one of it in the entire Baiyu City. Its value could not longer be measured using money.
The other party probably spent a great deal of effort trying to find this.
"What is a single jade worth next to the favor Zhang laoshi has bestowed upon my daughter!" City Lord Zhao Feng said respectfully.
Not only did he see through Zhao Ya's unique constitution, he even went all out to awaken it….
The favor was so great that even though the Enlightenment Jade was valuable, it wasn't enough to repay the gratitude.
"Then, you have my thanks!"
Knowing that the other party sincerely wanted to gift this to him, it would be impolite for him to reject it. Furthermore, he had a use for it, so he nodded his head and accepted it.
"Zhao Ya is my student. Guiding her cultivation so that she can improve faster is part of my responsibilities. This isn't a trade, so I don't need your compensation."
Zhang Xuan continued, "However, I do need the Enlightenment Jade. How about this? Zhao Ya has shown me the cultivation technique of your Baiyu City before, and I'll write down a modified version for you. You can take this as the compensation for the Enlightenment Crystal!"
"Cultivation technique? Modified… version?"
Zhao Feng and Emperor Shen Zhui widened their eyes in astonishment.
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Chapter 229: Guiding Zhao Feng
Translator: StarveCleric Editor: - -
Every single cultivation technique that was passed on had been refined over and over again by the efforts of countless experts.
Putting others aside, the [White Jade Art] had been passed down for no less than three hundred years. Countless ancestors had used this skill as their cultivation technique, and if not for Zhao Ya's incompatibility with the skill as a lady, she would have cultivated this skill as well.
After he started to sense the spiritual energy starting from age four, he had come a long way, becoming the second most influential person in the kingdom now. The White Jade Art had accompanied him for forty years, but he had never experienced any problems with it. Yet this Zhang laoshi who wasn't even in his twenties said that he could modify it?
Seriously?
Modifying and bettering a cultivation technique required an in-depth understanding of cultivation. Only those who had reached Zongshi realm were capable of doing so.
Thus, upon hearing his words, City Lord Zhao Feng and Emperor Shen Zhui were a little doubtful.
Even though Old Ancestor Shen Hong had reached Zongshi realm, he was still unable to refine a cultivation technique that had been passed down for centuries. Yet… Zhang Xuan said he could?
Zhang Xuan saw the doubt in the two of their eyes, but he didn't pay them any heed. Retrieving a paper and a brush, he started writing.
The last time he passed a cultivation technique to Zhao Ya and the others, they also behaved in the same manner. He was already used to it by now.
Not too long after, he finished jotting down a complete cultivation technique.
"This…"
Grabbing the paper, City Lord Zhao Feng lowered his head to take a look. It was indeed the cultivation technique he had been practicing and Zhang laoshi had edited a few portions of it. However, after looking at it, a bizarre expression appeared on his face.
"Is there a problem with it?" Emperor Shen Zhui couldn't help asking.
"Your Majesty, take a look!" Zhao Feng handed the cultivation technique to him.
Casually flipping through it, Shen Zhui was perplexed as well, "I once got the old ancestor to take a look at your cultivation technique, and he commented that it was imposing and powerful. However, this modification erases the strengths of the technique, and there are even some conflicts between several portions…. Can this really be cultivated?"
As a Tongxuan realm pinnacle expert and the sovereign of a country, Shen Zhui had access to profound cultivation technique manuals, so he was knowledgeable on such matters. At the very least, he was still able to see the strengths and weaknesses of a cultivation technique.
If one were to cultivate according to the formula written, it would cause the zhenqi in their body to go into disarray and clash at several acupoints. At worst, one's cultivation might even go berserk.
"You'll know whether it is useful or not after trying to cultivating it!"
Seeing the doubt in their eyes, Zhang Xuan wasn't angry in the least.
"I believe Zhang laoshi!" After hesitating for a moment, City Lord Zhao nodded his head.
Even though this White Jade Art was modified in an extremely bizarre manner, he trusted Zhang laoshi.
To be able to see through his daughter's Pure Yin Body and induce such a massive improvement in all five of his students in just half a month, Zhang Xuan's discerning ability and his knowledge on cultivation was clearly not something he could compare with.
Upon thinking so, City Lord Zhao memorized the changes, sat on the floor with crossed legs, and started cultivating.
Huhuhu!
As he focused his mind, spiritual energy from the surroundings started surging to him and entered his body through his pores.
The moment he started cultivating, his cultivation realm also became apparent. Tongxuan realm advanced stage!
Gugugugu!
It didn't take long for the healthy glow on City Lord Zhao's face to turn pale. Trembling slightly, sweat streamed down his body.
"This…"
Upon seeing his state, Emperor Shen Zhui swiftly turned to look at Zhang Xuan. "Zhang laoshi, has he cultivated incorrectly? Hastened breathing, unstable state of mind… These are the signs of one's cultivation going berserk!"
Usually when one cultivated, the absorption and refinement of spiritual energy into zhenqi should give a sense of comfort. Yet City Lord Zhao was trembling all over. It seemed as though he was losing control of his strength, and it was threatening to burst out of his body. Clearly, something was wrong.
Unlike Juxi realm and Dantian realm, it wasn't a small affair if a Tongxuan realm cultivator's cultivation went berserk!
Even if one didn't die, at the very least, his cultivation would be destroyed completely.
There wasn't any way of saving someone when it came to that point!
"Don't panic. If City Lord Zhao finds that something is amiss, he'll stop!"
Zhang Xuan simply smiled calmly in response.
"This…"
Zhang Xuan's words rang true. Having cultivated for several decades, he was no longer an amateur who would follow a teacher's words blindly.
If he sensed that something was amiss, he would definitely stop.
Understanding that, Emperor Shen Zhui's worry lightened. Even so, his eyebrows were still furrowed.
He had seen the modifications Zhang laoshi made. The concept behind the modification went against the idea of the White Jade Art, and there were even a few clear conflicts between the two. Was it really fine… cultivating like this?
It must be known that an illogical modification could result in death!
Furthermore, wasn't City Lord Zhao being too rash!
Even though Zhang laoshi had modified it personally, he should have first checked the theories and verified it to be safe. If he cultivated it straightaway in this manner, it was plausible that a problem might occur in his cultivation.
Pu!
As he was thinking about that matter, City Lord Zhao's complexion suddenly turned even more awful, and unable to hold himself back, he spit out a mouthful of blood.
"City Lord Zhao…"
Upon seeing him spit blood, Emperor Shen Zhui immediately stood up to support him, but before he could even move toward the other party, Zhang laoshi spoke up, "Don't be in such a hurry. First look at the blood he has spat out."
Looking down, he saw that the blood on the ground was maroon, unlike from the normal crimson color of blood.
A grim expression appeared on Emperor Shen Zhui's face.
Upon seeing this sight, it was clear that something was wrong.
Just when he was hesitating about whether he should ask Zhang laoshi about this problem, he suddenly saw City Lord Zhao furiously propelling all of the strength within his body.
Boom!
Along with the sound of a loud explosion, his aura abruptly grew stronger.
"Tongxuan realm… pinnacle? He achieved a breakthrough?"
Emperor Shen Zhui's eyes narrowed.
It seemed that the cultivation technique Zhang laoshi passed to City Lord Zhao was beneficial to him, allowing him to reach Tongxuan realm pinnacle.
Even though it was just a small leap within a realm, being able to accomplish this feat in such a short period of time showed how impressive the modifications Zhang laoshi had made to the cultivation technique were.
"This cultivation technique…"
Thinking that, Emperor Shen Zhui reached over to pick up the cultivation technique written by Zhang Xuan to analyze it. However, Zhang Xuan beat him to it and he casually threw it aside.
Huala!
The several pieces of paper fell into the fireplace not too far away and were reduced to ash.
Emperor Shen Zhui grew even more confused.
As the sovereign of a country, he had always prided himself on his superior wisdom. However, Zhang laoshi's actions today had stumped him. He felt like a fool, utterly unable to understand the rationale behind the other party's actions.
Zhang laoshi said that he was going to modify City Lord Zhao's cultivation technique, but he gave him a clearly flawed modified version instead. In the end, such a cultivation technique allowed City Lord Zhao, who had been stuck at Tongxuan realm advanced stage for numerous years, to break through in a few moments.
Since it was so effective, this cultivation technique should be extremely valuable. Yet… he threw it in the fireplace, burning it to ash….
'Since you modified the cultivation technique for the other party, your intention should be for him to cultivate it properly in the future. If so, why did you destroy it?'
"As expected of Yang shi's disciple. Incredible…"
In his perplexion, a figure suddenly appeared in his mind.
Yang shi!
Honestly speaking, the actions of Yang shi were even stranger, but they had extraordinary effects. As his direct disciple, Zhang Xuan had inherited this quality of his.
"Thank you, Zhang laoshi!"
As he was thinking that, City Lord Zhao Feng had already completed his cultivation. Looking at Zhang laoshi once more, deep respect and admiration for the other party could be seen on his face.
"You understand it?" Zhang Xuan asked.
"Yes, I understand!"
City Lord Zhao nodded his head.
"Good, you may go now!" Zhang Xuan waved his hands.
"OK!" City Lord Zhao nodded his head and backed down. Surprisingly, he didn't mention the burnt secret manual at all.
"This…"
Seeing how peculiarly the two of them were acting and how incomprehensible their words were, Emperor Shen Zhui had no idea what he should start asking about. Thus, he stood up and bid farewell as well. "Zhang laoshi, I'll be taking my leave as well."
After which, he hurriedly left.
Walking out of the classroom, he saw City Lord Zhao looking at Zhang laoshi's classroom with admiring eyes.
"What happened?" Emperor Shen Zhui couldn't help asking.
He was about to die from curiosity over the bizarre actions of the pair.
"Your Majesty saw the cultivation technique Zhang laoshi modified for me. What do you think of it?" City Lord Zhao didn't reply to his question. Instead, he asked one of his own.
"I think that… it's messy. I can't make heads or tails of it…." Emperor Shen Zhui spoke his mind after hesitating for a moment.
Even though he had seen City Lord Zhao achieving a breakthrough through cultivating that technique, he still felt that the contents within were illogical. Something was amiss.
"Indeed, it is indeed a mess. In all honesty, Zhang laoshi did so intentionally…."
City Lord Zhao nodded.
"He intentionally modified it wrong?" Emperor Shen Zhui felt faint. "You knew but you still continued cultivating?"
An incorrect cultivation technique wasn't a joke. It was easy for one's cultivation technique to go berserk if one cultivated in the wrong manner. Yet, even though he knew it was wrong, he went ahead with it. 'What the heck was wrong with these two?
'Furthermore, if it was wrong, how did you reach Tongxuan realm pinnacle?'
What in the world was going on?
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Chapter 230: Book of Heaven's Path (First Half)
Translator: StarveCleric Editor: - -
"Our Zhao Clan's cultivation technique is grand and imposing. Your Majesty should be well aware of this!"
Upon seeing the confusion in the other party's eyes, City Lord Zhao Feng immediately explained the matter to him.
"Indeed!" Emperor Shen Zhui nodded his head.
Actually, many years ago, the Zhao and Shen Clan had worked together to establish the current Tianxuan Kingdom. The Shen Clan had claimed supreme power over the country whereas the Zhao Clan claimed supreme wealth for themselves. As partners, the two clans had maintained an intimate relationship generation after generation, not even hiding their cultivation techniques from one another.
Emperor Shen Zhui had come into contact with Zhao Clan's White Jade Art when he was younger and as such, he was familiar with it. Due to the ferocious might of the technique, it wasn't suitable for a lady like Zhao Ya to cultivate.
City Lord Zhao Ya continued, "Ever since the establishment of Tianxuan Kingdom, my Zhao Clan has been guarding the City of Jade, even naming it 'White Jade.' As such, we have been in contact with jade for generation after generation. Rationally speaking, given the complementary nature between humans and jade, it should enhance one's training speed. Unfortunately, jade has a cold attribute, which clashes with the warm nature of White Jade Art. While carrying a single jade or two isn't a problem, excessive contact could potentially cause a conflict between the energies and damage one's body.
"At first, you wouldn't notice it due to the slow accumulative nature. However, as the conflict continued on for a long period of time, it would slowly leave a unique trauma in your body. It would remain in your bloodline, inherited by one generation after another. This is also the reason why I have been stuck in Tongxuan realm advanced stage for countless years."
The talent of City Lord Zhao Feng back then wasn't inferior to Zhao Ya's. Reaching Tongxuan realm in his twenties, his reputation as a young genius spread far and wide.
However, it was a pity that he found himself at a bottleneck ever since he had reached Tongxuan realm advanced stage. A decade had passed, but he wasn't able to progress at all. Initially, he thought that he had sapped his potential dry. Yet, contrary to all of his expectations, it turned out to be a trauma passed down by his ancestors due to excessive contact with jade.
"Zhang laoshi recognized this problem and intentionally modified the White Jade Art erroneously so as to cause the energies in my body to go on a rampage and expel the cold air from my body. As such, the trauma in my body was expelled, and given the zhenqi which I have accumulated over the numerous years, I was able to achieve a breakthrough and reach Tongxuan realm pinnacle!" Admiration gleamed in Zhao Feng's eyes as he spoke.
To be able to deduce all of this just by looking at his cultivation technique and knowing that he came from Baiyu City, it was clear that Zhang laoshi's understanding of cultivation techniques and cultivation wasn't inferior to a Zongshi.
"Since the trauma is solved, then that cultivation technique…" Emperor Shen Zhui was still puzzled.
"Is Your Majesty curious why Zhang laoshi destroyed the modified cultivation technique?"
City Lord Zhao Feng chuckled, "That cultivation technique is full of errors. The reason why he modified it in that manner is to treat the trauma within my body. Now that it has been removed, if I were to continue cultivating it, my cultivation might really go berserk. Thus, Zhang laoshi destroyed it to indicate that… I can forget about it, and that there is no need for me to continue cultivating the modified version."
"I get it now…." Finally comprehending the situation, Emperor Shen Zhui was astonished by Zhang Xuan's capability.
Even though it sounded simple, accomplishing this feat wasn't easy at all.
As a cultivation technique that had been passed down from several centuries, countless experts had worked on the White Jade Art. Just by modifying some of the zhenqi circulation methods, he was able to completely solve a trauma which had settled into the Zhao Clan's bloodline for several generations.
Even the three master teachers were probably incapable of such a feat.
"Your Majesty and Father, why are you both here?"
Suddenly, Zhao Ya's voice sounded. Then the several young men and ladies who had the spotlight on them for the day walked over.
"Oh, I am here to pay a visit to Zhang laoshi!" Zhao Feng nodded his head. "Aren't you all participating in the Freshman Tournament as well? Why would you all…"
The duels before were classified under the Teacher Evaluation. To ascertain their ranks among the freshmen, they had to compete in the Freshman Tournament. Thus, Zhao Feng was surprised by their return when the tournament had yet to begin.
"Given our current state, who would want to compete with us?"
Zhao Ya gestured helplessly.
"Ah… that's true!" Zhao Feng and Emperor Shen Zhui smiled wryly.
Regardless of whether it was Zhao Ya, Yuan Tao, or the others, they were able to stand their ground against a Pixue realm expert. They could match up to even the weaker teachers, so which freshman would dare duel with them?
They would probably admit their defeat immediately.
Besides, given their current level of strength, achieving a victory in the Freshman Tournament wouldn't bring glory to them. As a result, they chose to withdraw from it instead.
"Right, Father, have you met with Zhang laoshi yet? Do you need me to introduce you two?" Zhao Ya said, seeing the two of them standing by the doorway.
"I've already met with Zhang laoshi." At this point, Zhao Feng looked at his daughter. "Little Ya, it's your fortune to be able to come under Zhang laoshi's tutelage. You must listen to him obediently in the future, you mustn't throw tantrums like you did in the past!"
"Yeah!" Zhao Ya nodded her head.
"Also, given Zhang laoshi's capabilities, it is unlikely that he will remain in Tianxuan Kingdom for long. If he asks if you are willing to follow him, you must grab hold of the opportunity. Otherwise, you will regret it for your entire life…." Zhao Feng emphasized the word "regret" strongly and his high expectations for his daughter reflected in his eyes. "Perhaps… the matter regarding saving your mother… he might be the only one who can do it!"
"Yes!" Zhao Ya clenched her fists tightly.
...
"I should first see how this Enlightenment Jade works!"
After the pair left, Zhang Xuan turned his attention to the Enlightenment Jade in his hands.
Logically speaking, as Zhang Xuan possessed the Library of Heaven's Path, he could easily see the flaws in the cultivation of others. Even if he didn't possess the State of Insight of Heart of Tranquil Water, it didn't affect him much.
However, it was the prerequisite for one to take the master teacher examination.
It wasn't feasible for Zhang Xuan to continue passing off as a master teacher for long.
It was analogous to driving without a license in his previous life. Even an experienced racer would have to keep his guard up at all times when on the road, fearful of getting nabbed.
More importantly, the Master Teacher Pavilions of the world were known to have innumerable books. If he wanted to raise his strength swiftly, it was important for him to have this official identity so that he could access them.
"Absorb!"
Thinking so, Zhang Xuan entered the State of Mind 2-dan once more and he felt a cold sensation seeping into his body through his palms. Slowly, his expended Soul Depth recovered.
"It works!"
Sensing the change in his body, Zhang Xuan's eyes lit up. Thus, he continued to immerse himself within the absorption of the Enlightenment Jade, greedily taking into the energy within it.
Soon, he felt his that his expended Soul Depth had finally recovered, reaching 0.1 once more.
However, after reaching 0.1, he was unable to absorb any more from the Enlightenment Jade, as though he had reached his capacity.
"Looks like without a suitable technique to utilize along with this, this object is useless!"
Zhang Xuan deduced that the object worked like one's cultivation. Even with the necessary resources raise one's cultivation, without a cultivation technique, it was impossible for one to achieve a breakthrough.
Unable to absorb any further, Zhang Xuan could only retreat from the Heart of Tranquil Water.
Spiritual energy and zhenqi worked just like flowing water. It would only travel downhill. If one wanted to reverse the situation, one had to utilize special methods, and practicing a cultivation technique was one of them.
It was true that the Enlightenment Jade could raise one's Soul Depth, but without a suitable technique to pair with it, it was futile.
"Forget it, I'll just put aside for now until I find some books on it. I should first skim over the golden book."
Knowing that worrying over this problem was useless, Zhang Xuan turned his attention to the golden book in the Library of Heaven's Path.
When his students stood up against Lu Xun to protect his reputation, the golden book abruptly appeared in the library. Now that he was finally done with his work, it was time to look into the matter.
With a jolt of his mind, the book appeared before him. A new golden page had appeared in it.
"Whether it appears due to one's gratitude still needs some looking into, just that… what is the use of this thing?"
Staring at the book intently, Zhang Xuan was puzzled.
The last time he was studying the book, the book suddenly disappeared and he passed out. When he finally regained consciousness, all of the knowledge contained in the library assimilated with his mind, becoming his.
Could this be the only use of this seemingly incredible-looking object?
If it wasn't, there wasn't any an instruction manual to it…. The more he tried to examine it, the more confused he became.
"I should try using the Library of Heaven's Path to ascertain it!"
After staring at it for a long time, Zhang Xuan was still unable to comprehend anything about it. Suddenly, a thought appeared in his mind.
He might not be able to tell anything about it just by looking at it, but the library could!
Just like the poison aura from before, there didn't seem to be anything which this overpowered tool couldn't see the flaw of.
However, the golden book existed in his mind. Even though he seemed like to be holding the book, it was actually an avatar of his spiritual consciousness. Since he wasn't coming into direct physical contact with it, he didn't know whether a book on it could be formed.
"Flaws!"
Clutching the book in his grasp, Zhang Xuan thought.
Looking around, there weren't any new books in sight. From the looks of it, spiritual contact didn't allow him to look into the flaws of an object.
"Seems like I can only use the brute force method then…."
After trying for a few times, Zhang Xuan smiled wryly.
Since that method didn't work, he could only write down his hypothesis and allow the library to ascertain them.
Taking out an empty book, Zhang Xuan lifted up his brush and started writing on it. "The only use of the golden book is to assimilate the content contained within the library and turn them into the owner's."
Weng!
A similar book appeared in his mind. Flipping through it, the flaw in his statement appeared. "Assimilating knowledge is just one if its abilities. It isn't its only use."
"There really are other uses for it!"
Zhang Xuan's eyes lit up.
How could a book generated by such an overpowered cheat code only have one use? There were indeed other uses to it!
However, Zhang Xuan would have to guess the uses of the page.
"The name of this book is... Golden Book!"
After hesitating for a moment, Zhang Xuan continued writing.
Soon, the flaws on the statement appeared in the compiled book. "The name 'Golden Book' is wrong. The name of the book is [Book of Heaven's Path]."
"Book of Heaven's Path? Such a domineering name…. However, its name doesn't matter to me at all. I need to know its uses!"
Zhang Xuan frowned.
He already knew that assimilating the contents of the book into his knowledge was one of the uses, but the other uses eluded him.
"Can it create a cultivation technique that can raise one's Soul Depth?"
Just when he was pondering over what he should ask, a thought appeared in his mind.
He had been worried over his Soul Depth for the entire day. Since the Book of Heaven's Path seemed to wield incredible abilities, could it create a cultivation technique that could raise his Soul Depth?
As his thoughts was wandering about, before he could do anything, the book before him trembled violently before turning into a radiant burst of light, covering the entire library with its brilliance.
Hu!
This time, he didn't pass out. Soon, the light gradually faded and the library returned back to normal. Swiftly turning his vision to the golden book, just like before, the golden book was still there, but the empty golden page had disappeared once more.
"Could it be that… it has really formed a cultivation technique that can raise my Soul Depth?"
The moment he was pondering if it could raise his Soul Depth, the golden page disappeared. Could there be a secret manual regarding the cultivation of Soul Depth in the library now?
As he thought this, he immediately looked around anxiously.