Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 44: I Will Choose One

“What?”

“That little fellow dares to say that of Master Mo Yang?”

“Master helped him pick out a treasure out of goodwill, and yet he claims that the master is trying to deceive him?”

“What an arrogant lad!”

Hearing Zhang Xuan’s words, the crowd was dumbfounded for an instant before bursting into commotion.

[Is that lad’s head alright?

The master went through so much difficulty to help him choose a treasure, and yet he says that… Fraud, acting cool?]

“What did you say?” Apparently, he didn’t expect the young man to respond in such a manner. ‘Master Mo Yang’s’ face darkened. “Little friend, do you have some kind of misunderstanding against me?”

“Misunderstanding? You should be more than aware of what I am saying. If you want to scam someone, go ahead. It’s none of my business, and I am not interested in interfering in your affairs as well! I choose my own artifacts while you scam your victims, let’s stay out of each other’s path. So, stop putting on that haughty look of yours in front of me!”

Zhang Xuan waved him away, annoyed.

He had never borne any goodwill towards scammers. Even so, as long as the other party didn’t get on his nerves, he was willing to let the issue slide. Yet, this fellow intended to make use of him to act cool, he was truly courting his death!

“What audacity!” ‘Master Mo Yang’s’ face paled and he flung his sleeves, his actions carrying an aura of righteousness with it. “I have attained the qualifications of an appraiser 30 years ago, and I have helped numerous people out of difficulty. My conscience is clear! There has never been a single person who had accused me of scamming them. Everyone here can bear testimony to that, when had I ever scammed anyone of you?”

“Master Mo Yang is compassionate and saves those who are in precarious situations. How could he possibly be a fraudster!”

“That falsifying youngster over there, you must be tired of living!”

“Master, don’t get angry. I will teach that fellow a lesson in your place, so that he will learn to not to spout lies in the future…”

…

With just a few words, ‘Master Mo Yang’ managed to stir up the rage of everyone here. Every single of them looked at Zhang Xuan as though he had murdered their family.

“Attained the qualifications of an appraiser 30 years ago? Conscience is clear?”

Zhang Xuan was speechless.

[You are just a small apprentice appraiser, must you try so hard to act as though you are bigger than that?

Your skin is much thicker than I thought.

No wonder you are able to become scammer wanted by the Liuzhu Kingdom. Not only is your skin unbelievably thick, your ability to adapt to abrupt changes is truly frightening.]

Other scammers would panic when they were exposed before others. Yet, this fellow skillfully reversed the tip of the arrow back towards him, making it hard for him to step down from the current situation.

If Zhang Xuan didn’t possess the Library of Heaven’s Path, upon seeing how righteously the other party was acting, he would have surely suspected that he might be making a mistake. However, with the library in his hands, since it was stated on it that he was a scammer, then he was definitely one!

“Everyone, calm down!” Seeing that everyone’s anger was stirred and that he was on the offense now, ‘Master Mo Yang’ waved his hands and said, “I am a forgiving person. If you can apologize for the words you said a moment ago, I can choose to not pursue the matter. Otherwise, you should be well aware of the punishment awaiting you for intentionally slandering me!”

“Punishment?” Zhang Xuan shook his head. “It isn’t that hard to verify whether you are a scammer or not and whether I am lying or not. As long as they clean the outer coating off the artifacts they just bought, we will know the results instantly! What is the use of speaking so much nonsense here?”

“Clean it?” ‘Master Mo Yang’ seemed to have predicted that he would say such words. He replied calmly, “I have already said previously that I will be leaving Tianxuan City by tonight. The artifacts that I have chosen for them are all large in size and will require at least half a day before their true form emerges. I still have urgent matters to attend to, and I cannot delay my departure for that long a time! Why, are you going to say that the reason why I am unwilling to stay here any longer is because I feel guilty, so that you can make use of this to accuse me?”

At this point, the elderly swung his arms and exuded a haughty disposition. “I, Mo Yang, lived an upright life, so there’s no reason for me to fear your accusations! However, I had helped you pick out an artifact out of goodwill on my part, only to have you accuse me of scamming you. Since you don’t have concrete proof, it is an act of slander. Do you know the consequences of slandering a master appraiser?”

Hearing these words, Zhang Xuan realized that he was still underestimating the shamelessness of the other party.

As expected of a professional scammer, to have already thought of a plan to back away if the situation were to turn awry.

He had already clearly expressed that he would be leaving Tianxuan Kingdom tonight, thus paving an escape path beforehand. Before Zhang Xuan could even speak, he was already counterattacked. Right now, even if he were to say that he was afraid of waiting until the artifacts were cleaned thoroughly, no one would believe his words!

Furthermore… Zhang Xuan really didn’t have any evidence to prove that he is a scammer!

The secret on the Library of Heaven’s Path could not be revealed. Even if it was revealed, there must be at least someone here who was willing to believe him!

“Lad, kneel down and apologize to the master now!”

“To dare to say that the master is a scammer, do you think that I dare not to kill you right now?”

“Where did this audacious beast come from, to dare to lay doubt upon the master’s innocence?”

…

Upon seeing how righteous and indignant the ‘master’ was, many people chose to believe in him instantly, and the lot of them started to chastise Zhang Xuan.

These people were completely furious.

Those who were scammed had self-hypnotized themselves due to their reluctance to accept the claim that they have been scammed. No matter who it was, if someone dared to interrupt their beautiful dream, they would be refuted adamantly and rebuked.

From their viewpoint, ‘Master Mo Yang’ was an upright person, so how could he possibly be a scammer?

What kind of joke was this!

“Since this fellow dares to claim that the master is a scammer, he should be skilled in appraising, right? If you are that capable, why don’t you choose one artifact out for us to see? If the one you chose turns out to be trash, you shall stop putting on an act here and scram!”

A voice from the crowd snorted.

“Indeed. Since you said that I am a scammer, and you are unwilling to accept the artifact I chose out for you, I’m sure you must be knowledgeable in appraising as well!”

At this point, ‘Master Mo Yang’ nodded his head and looks over, “How about this, I will give you a chance! We will each choose a simple and small artifact together, so that we can clean it quickly for appraisal! As long as you are able to profit out of the object you chose, I will acknowledge that you are skilled and I will let the issue drop! But if you choose a useless trash, then I’m sorry, but you will have to buy the treasure I just picked out for you, kneel down and apologize to me!”

“You want to compete with me in a battle of appraisal?” Just a moment ago, Zhang Xuan was still in a dilemma on coming up with evidence against him. However, hearing his words, he was slightly taken aback and he almost laughed on the spot.

[This fellow must have a screw loose!]

Zhang Xuan himself possessed the Library of Heaven’s Path. If he were to claim that he was second in appraising, no one would dare to claim that they were first in the world… [Are you sure that your head didn’t get jammed between doors?]

However, after giving it some careful thought, he was also able to comprehend the rationale behind the other party’s action.

In the other party’s perspective, Zhang Xuan was only an eighteen or nineteen year old youth, so what could he possibly know about appraising? Besides, since he was able to help others profit a few days ago, he must have prepared several means beforehand. If both of them appraised concurrently and Zhang Xuan were to choose a useless artifact, he would be able to make use of this opportunity to further build up his prestige. Perhaps, he might even be able to attract a few fools to invest frenziedly.

“Why? You don’t dare to accept the challenge?”

‘Master Mo Yang’ was resolute to eat Zhang Xuan whole.

“Fine!” Since the other party was seeking some thrill, how could Zhang Xuan bear to refuse him?

“Alright, then I’ll go first!” ‘Master Mo Yang’ flung his robe and walked along the long, elevated platform with large strides. He quickly stopped before a palm-sized artifact and picked it up.

This object was covered by a thick layer of rock, such that even the shape of the object inside could not be ascertained, needless to say, determine whether it was valuable or not.

“Dealer, how much does this cost?”

Picking up the object, ‘Master Mo Yang’ inquired.

“This object is small in size and there isn’t much spirit energy movement that can be felt from it. 200 gold coins!” The dealer replied and he walked over to Master Mo Yang.

“Alright, find someone to help me clean this up!”

Passing over the money, ‘Master Mo Yang’ said calmly.

“Yes!”

The dealer grabbed hold of the treasure and sent it to the hall at the back. A moment later, he came out with a golden toad in his hands. With an excited look, he said, “Congratulations, master. It is the shed skin of 【Spirit Horned Golden Toad】!”

“What is a Spirit Horned Golden Toad?”

“Spirit Horned Golden Toad is a tier-6 savage beast. Of its entire body, its most valuable part is its skin. It only molts once in its entire life. This object can be used in medicine and it is extremely valuable!”

“As expected of Master Mo Yang, to be able to pick out a treasure amidst everything else. Your ability of discernment is incredible!”

…

Upon hearing that it was the shed skin of the Spirit Horned Golden Toad, the hall burst into commotion.

“Many people may not know of this item, so why don’t you just state a price! It will be much more spectacular that way!” With his head up high, ‘Master Mo Yang’ constantly exuded an acting cool aura as he spoke flatly.

“This object is worth… 2000 gold coins!” The dealer exclaimed.

“2000 gold coins?”

“After buying it with 200 gold coins, the price grows to 2000 gold coin in an instant? A revenue of tenfold?”

“This is too incredible!”

“As expected of the master. If you can profit so much through a small object, then surely I will be able to make a killing over that giant artifact you chose for me previously!”

…

Upon seeing this sight, the eyes of the slightly worried crowd started burning fanatically again.

[A master isn’t just for show, a clear difference in standards shows the moment he makes a move!]

“Alright, it’s your turn!”

‘Master Mo Yang’ gestured with a cold gaze.

“I…” Zhang Xuan nodded his head.

Knowing that the other party was a scammer, he was aware that he would surely have a contingency plan. Even so, he didn’t expect his contingency plan to be so incredible!

He had to choose something at least of the same level as him.

“Can I choose the artifact first and decide on a price after the artifact has been cleaned?”

Stepping forward, Zhang Xuan suddenly recalled something and looked at the dealer.

“No way! You have to pay first before cleaning it! This is a part of the rules. Otherwise, what if it turns out to be a trash after you clean it and you no longer want it, or if it turns out too valuable and we no longer want to sell it? It would be impossible to resolve such situations!”

The dealer stated coldly.

In order to prevent such contention, one had to pay after deciding on an artifact in treasure speculation. This was equivalent to signing a contract, no one would be able to turn their back on it.

“Alright then…”

After being informed of the rules, Zhang Xuan could only nod his head. Then, turning over to look at the artifacts, he said without blushing, “Come, point out for me which artifacts are worth less than eight gold coins in this pile! I will choose one from them…”

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 43: Someone is Acting Cool (2)

The numerous flaws and the past deeds of Master Mo Yang were recorded on the book.

“Originally known as Yang Mo, an apprentice appraiser. A scammer in Liuzhu Kingdom who made his name as an appraiser, notorious for his frauds to earn wealth and the favor of women!”

“Battle Techniques: Voice of Allurement (Rookie). Beguile the mind of others through words, making it easier to convince them!”

“Flaws: No. 1, outlawed by the royalty of Liuzhu Kingdom. No.2…”

Zhang Xuan didn’t know whether he should laugh or cry.

To think that the fellow who had the appearance and disposition of an expert would turn out to be a scammer! For a moment back there, even Zhang Xuan thought that he was an amazing figure!

Looks like there were quite a few people in the crowd that were his men. The dealer selling the artifacts must be an accomplice of his as well. They worked together to build up his fame out of appraising treasures, so that they could convince people to buy useless trash at a high price, thus profiting out of it.

“If there is someone conducting a fraud, there must be someone that would be tricked as well!”

Despite knowing that the other party was a fraudster, Zhang Xuan had no intentions to expose him at all.

Firstly, he didn’t have the evidence to prove it. The matter with the Library of Heaven’s Path must not be exposed at all costs! Secondly, those who had been scammed by him had already lost their rationality. If he were to try to convince them that he is a fraudster, it was possible that he might end up getting lynched by them.

Zhang Xuan would never do deeds that did not benefit him, not to mention that it would bring him a string of troubles.

“Forget it. I think I will just look through and buy my own items!”

Couldn’t be bothered with the ‘Master Mo Yang’ who was busy trying to act cool by putting on an ‘expert’s demeanor’, Zhang Xuan continued to browse through the treasures placed on the platform, casually touching them as he passed by them.

A book would be compiled in his mind as long as he came into physical contact with the item. Although the prices of the item weren’t reflected in the library, the items with fewer flaws were definitely of higher value.

After touching forty to fifty items, he realized that there was not a single valuable one among them. The absurdly low possibility of finding a treasure in the mix made him shudder.

“The final chance will be given to… you!”

Just as Zhang Xuan was busy touching the artifacts around the room, an authoritative voice resounded within the room.

Turning his head to take a look, he saw the ‘worldly expert’ Master Mo Yang looking at him, nodding his head slightly as though to ascertain Zhang Xuan’s doubts that he had been chosen. Countless gaze were affixed to him and they were filled with envy.

“Me?” Zhang Xuan was taken aback.

“This little friend here, there’s no need for you to be so unconfident about yourself. You are the one!” Master Mo Yang stroked his beard with a proud expression, as though saying that it was Zhang Xuan’s honor to be chosen by him.

“Unconfident?” Zhang Xuan shook his head.

Which part of him looked unconfident? Rather, he was thinking about how he could be so unlucky to be chosen. [Of so many frenzied followers following behind you, why did you have to choose me?]

However, after a short moment, he came to a realization. Those who were here for treasure speculation today were mostly following behind the back of the ‘master’. Given that Zhang Xuan was the only one strolling about the hall, browsing through and touching the artifacts casually, it would be hard for him to not stand out!

“I appreciate your goodwill, but I don’t need it!”

Knowing that the other party was a fraudster, he was unwilling to become the gold mine for him to profit from. Zhang Xuan waved his hand and continued to look through the pile of treasures.

“Don’t need it?” Master Mo Yang frowned.

Of the nine slots he had given out previously, regardless of who they were, they all responded to him in enthusiasm, some even on the verge of fainting due to excessive agitation. Yet, when he chose this fellow, he actually… didn’t want it?

He concealed his darkened face quickly. Waving his hand, he walked forward while stroking his beard and looked at Zhang Xuan with a pained expression, “Since you’re here for treasure speculation, surely you would wish to buy a true treasure. I noticed that you have been browsing around the hall unskillfully, so I decided to offer you some guidance so that you won’t end up bankrupt at such a young age. Are you certain that you don’t need it? Don’t disappoint me by rejecting the goodwill that I hold for you!”

“Lad, if you don’t want the slot, give it to me!”

“He actually doesn’t want the slot the master gave him, is there something wrong with his head?”

“It is clear to see that he is abnormal with a single look. I have noticed the fellow previously. He had been touching all of the artifacts in the room, it could be that he is thinking of stealing something!”

“If master were to grant such an opportunity to me, I would probably awake from my sleep smiling everyday!”

…

Everyone could hear the conversation between Zhang Xuan and the ‘master’ clearly, and they stared at the former as though they were looking at a monster.

[He is a master appraiser!

He will be leaving today after appraising for ten people! It is such a good opportunity and everyone is vying for it frenziedly. Yet, this fellow… doesn’t want it?

If his brain isn’t damaged, what else can it be?]

“I really don’t need it…” Zhang Xuan shook his head.

[End up bankrupt? If I listen to your words, then I will truly end up bankrupt…]

“Don’t be so quick to reject me!” Before Zhang Xuan could finish his words, ‘Master Mo Yang’ interrupted. With deep eyes that reflected his compassion for the world and his determination to save those in suffering, he said, “It isn’t easy for a youngster like you to earn some money. I do not hope to earn anything from granting you this slot. It is out of the kindness of my heart that I hope that you do not buy something useless and waste your fortune!”

“Master Mo Yang is too compassionate!”

“Not only is he capable of authenticating treasures, he is also kind! I am going to idolize him!”

“From today onward, I will only respect one person and that is Master Mo Yang!”

…

Hearing his words, everyone felt a resurgence of respect for him.

[Look at how compassionate he is?

Despite possessing the ability to appraise treasures, he doesn’t use it to earn great wealth. Instead, fearing that other people would suffer from making a wrong judgment, he is willing to expend the additional effort to appraise for him! One probably can’t find another person as kind as him, even if one were to roam the world with a lantern!]

“I…”

He didn’t expect him to be so shameless to declare these words in such a righteous tone. Zhang Xuan shook his head, but just as he was about to speak, the other party interrupted him once more.

“Alright, I know what you are thinking! Say no more!” The elder looked at him calmly with pride reflecting in his eyes.

“You know my thoughts?” Zhang Xuan asked doubtfully.

“Indeed. You must be thinking that you are too young and do not possess sufficient strength. Even if you successfully obtain a treasure, you don’t have the strength to guard it! Instead, you might even attract disaster to yourself!” ‘Master Mo Yang’ said in a ‘know-it-all’ tone with his hands behind his back.

“So that’s the reason!”

“Not only is the master incredible at appraising treasures, to think that he would have the capability of peering into the thoughts of others as well!”

“It is true that owning a treasure beyond one’s ability can attract disaster. It is normal that this lad would have such thoughts!”

…

After hearing ‘Master Mo Yang’s’ explanation, the crowd came to a realization. They finally understood why Zhang Xuan would reject such a wonderful opportunity.

“This…” Zhang Xuan had no idea how he should respond.

[This fellow is way too narcissistic.

Don’t have the strength to guard it… To think that you could think of such a thing.]

“Everyone!” Just as Zhang Xuan was about to clarify the situation, the ‘master’ before him glanced at the surroundings and proudly declared, “I have chosen this little fellow. So, regardless of what kind of treasures I have picked for him, I hope that you all wouldn’t have any greedy thoughts towards it! Otherwise, you will be going against me. If so, don’t blame me for being merciless!”

“Master, what are you talking about? How would we dare to lay our hands on a person you have chosen!”

“Master, rest assured. We would definitely not do such a stuff…”

Everyone quickly replied in chorus.

“Alright, since I have already informed everyone else, feel free to buy it. You don’t need to worry about attracting unwanted trouble!” ‘Master Mo Yang’ looked at Zhang Xuan with an encouraging smile.

“I…”

Zhang Xuan didn’t expect that this fellow would be so self-assuming. Just when he was about to speak, the other party interrupted him yet again. “You don’t need to feel too touched by it. Since I have given the final slot to you, it means that our meeting is fated! It is hard to explain a thing such as fate through rational explanations, so you don’t have to feel too thankful to me. I don’t wish for anything in return for picking out a treasure for you, it is just purely kindness of my part!”

“That…”

“No need for this and that. This treasure is it. I can guarantee you that once you buy it, you will definitely rake in great profits!”

‘Master Mo Yang’ didn’t even give Zhang Xuan an opportunity to talk. He retrieved an item from the pile of artifacts and passed it over.

“Earn…”

Seeing this treasure, Zhang Xuan was speechless.

He had already analyzed it previously. It was a trash that could not be more useless. It wasn’t even worth a single gold coin. Your loss would be equivalent to the price that you bought it at!

“Boss, can you collect the bill from this little friend here!”

Passing the treasure over, ‘Master Mo Yang’ gestured for the artifact dealer to come.

“A total of 30000 gold coins!” The dealer walked over.

“Hurry up and foot the bill, this is the most valuable treasure I have appraised tonight! Little friend, you have struck it rich!” Seeing how Zhang Xuan remained motionless, the elder stroked his beard and a doting smile appeared on his face, “After you return, clean up the outer layer. Try not to be too agitated by your newfound wealth!”

“Agitated? Agitated your head!” Upon having his words interrupted multiple times, Zhang Xuan could no longer rein his temper in. “If you want to scam others, go ahead, I won’t interfere in your affairs! Why did you have to look for me? Is it that enjoyable to be trying to act cool? Didn’t you notice how hard I have tried to spare your pride?”

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 42: Someone is Acting Cool (1)

“Leaving tonight? Master, why don’t you stay for a few more days?”

“Why are you leaving so soon?”

Hearing that the master was about to depart from the city, looks of anxiety appeared on the faces of the crowd.

[It is rare for an appraiser to appear in Tianxuan Royal City, and yet he is leaving just after a few days?]

“I still have matters to attend to!” Master Mo Yang’s eyebrows shot upwards. He carried with him a demeanor unique to experts, and his disposition was reminiscent of a flowing river, unable to be grasped with certainty. “How about this, I will increase the number of treasures I will appraise today from five to ten! You all also know that appraising isn’t an easy task, it drains one’s strength and energy. Ten is already my limit…”

“Master, rest assured! As long as you help me pick out an artifact for me, I am willing to compensate you…” A middle-aged man shouted from the crowd.

“Yeah, we are willing to compensate you!”

“As long as master chooses something out for me, regardless of the cost of the item is, I am willing to pay master the same amount of money!”

There were quite a few people who started yelling in response to his words.

Based on the ‘battle records’ of the master, those who had received his pointers had each earned several folds of the amount they had invested initially. As long as they were able to obtain a true treasure, paying a little bit of money in compensation was nothing in comparison.

“Hmph!”

Master Mo Yang flung his arm and interrupted the discussions of the crowd. Frowning, he declared with an aura of superiority, “I, Mo Yang, didn’t learn appraisal for money. The reason why I am appraising for you all is not to make a wealth! If I really desired money, there is no need for me to help you all. I just have to appraise an artifact and sell it myself, then won’t I earn a bigger fortune that way?”

“Keng…”

The crowd was stumped for words.

His words weren’t wrong. With his eye of discernment, he could just buy those artifacts that he had appraised to become treasures for himself, and he would be able to easily earn a big sum out of it.

“The reason why I promised to appraise for you all is because your warmth has moved me! Money is fleeting to me, similar to the clouds! Money is easy to earn, but friendship is priceless!”

With both his hands behind his back, Master Mo Yang exuded an aura of an unworldly saint that mortals could only look up to. He continued, “The reason why I promised to appraise artifacts for you all is because of our relationship, not for money. If anyone were to continue talking about money, then don’t bother asking me to appraise for you!”

“Master, your words are wise! We were too impertinent!”

“We can never hope to match up the master in terms of morals!”

“I have never conceded to anyone in my entire life. Today, you are the first one I will concede to, master!”

…

Hearing the words of the master, those who were shouting about paying him previously felt ashamed of themselves.

[Look at how he carries himself, then look at ourselves…

Is there even a basis for comparison?

No wonder he is a master while we are just small fries.]

“However, before I start appraising for you all, I would like to say something. An appraiser can only heighten the possibility of attaining a treasure. I cannot promise you all that you all will get a treasure with 100% probability!”

Master Mo Yang continued.

“Master, we all are aware that treasure speculation brings about risk. Your ability to discern treasure from trash is far superior to us and we trust in you!”

“We believe in master’s judgment!”

“We know the rules, how can one possibly lay their hands on treasures all the time? However, we believe that master would definitely be able to help us profit!”

…

Everyone started shouting simultaneously.

“Since everyone believes in me, then I will go ahead and embarrass myself. May I know which friend here would like me to choose an artifact for him?” Master Mo Yang surveyed the surrounding.

“Me!”

“Me…”

In an instant, innumerable people raised their hands and leapt about in excitement.

The appeal of an appraiser was clear to see. Every action of theirs could make people go into frenzy.

“Alright, you!”

Master Mo Yang pointed, and a pot-bellied middle-aged man walked out from the crowd, still unable to believe the fact that he had been chosen. “Me… Is it really me?”

“It’s you!” Master Mo Yang nodded his head with a smile on his face, the aura of a master clearly exuding through his actions.

“Thank you, master!”

The middle-aged man leapt in excitement as he stared at the elder before him with a desirous gaze. “Master, may I ask which one of them I should buy?”

“Let me take a look!”

Flinging his sleeves, he walked forward. He calmly gazed upon the numerous artifacts placed on the platform.

The crowd turned silent along with his actions, not daring to speak out loud for fear of distracting him.

Soon, he stopped and placed his palm on one of the artifacts. After feeling the exterior of the artifact gently, he seemed to use some kind of special technique that resulted in the shuddering of his entire body. A moment later, his face paled slightly.

“Alright, you can buy this one. I have just taken a look at it with my special technique and it is worth quite a sum!”

Master Mo Yang turned around and informed the middle-aged man.

“This one?”

The eyes of the middle-aged man lit up and he rushed forward to take a look.

It was a gigantic treasure that had been enveloped by a thick layer of rock, to the point that the entire artifact simply looked like a giant boulder.

This kind of treasure was the hardest to clean. Furthermore, given its massive size, being around the height of a human, it would take at least a day or two to chip the stone off of it carefully.

“Un!” Master Mo Yang nodded his head.

“Since it is a recommendation by the master, I will buy it!” The middle-aged man nodded his head and looked towards the dealer. “How much does it cost?”

“50000 gold coins!” The dealer of the treasure speculation hall stepped forward.

“50000?” The middle-aged man was taken aback.

This wasn’t a small sum. Even despite the great wealth he possessed, it was about the limit of what he can come up with.

Even a popular high-level teacher like Shen Bi Ru only earned around 1000 gold coins every month. She would take several years just to reach 50000.

“Buy it! This is a recommendation by the master. If you don’t want it, I will take it…” Upon seeing his hesitation, someone in the crowd shouted.

“Indeed, the master’s recommendation can’t possibly go wrong. It might cost 50000 now, but if it is worth 1000000 after it has been cleaned up, then you would have landed on a gold mine…”

“The previous few times, the treasures that the master appraised were of smaller scale. This time, he seems to have decided to go all out. You really struck it big this time…”

Quite a few people shouted out.

“Alright, I will buy it!”

After hesitating for a moment, the middle-aged man nodded his head and footed the bill.

“Alright, the second one!”

After the middle-aged man bought the artifact, Master Mo Yang seemed to have also recovered from his exertion and surveyed the surroundings once more.

“Me!”

“Me…”

The rest of the crowd raised their hands hurriedly. Glancing over, Zhang Xuan noticed the vendor from before whom he had helped solve his problem in the crowd. His hand was raised up high and he waved it with an enthusiastic expression, his strong desire to be chosen by the master clear to see.

“You!”

Master Mo Yang chose another person. This time, it was an elderly who was dressed extravagantly. With just a single look, it is apparent that he owned great wealth.

Similar to the first time, the master walked past the pile of treasures and soon set his sights upon one of it. noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

“80000 gold coins!”

This treasure was even more expensive than the one from before. However, this elderly didn’t even hesitate and immediately paid the bill.

“This… Isn’t this the Ornamental Vase crafted by a 1-mo craftsman from the Southern Kiln? 80000 gold coins?”

After taking a good look at the treasure Master Mo Yang chose for the elder, Zhang Xuan blinked his eyes in disbelief.

He might be unable to ascertain the value of the other treasures, given that he had yet to take a look at them, but he had already peered into the one Master Mo Yang just chose. It might be big, but only a decorative vase was contained inside. It wasn’t even worth a single gold coin and yet… 80000 gold coins?

“Could he be off the mark…”

Just as puzzlement filled his mind, Zhang Xuan couldn’t help but stare at the righteous-looking face of the master when his mind suddenly jolted and a book appeared in the library.

The words ‘Mo Yang’ was written on it.

“Could he be using a battle technique at the moment?”

Based on the unique properties of the Library of Heaven’s Path, a book could only be compiled when one showcases his battle technique. Could it be that the fellow was using one at the current moment?

Filled with bewilderment, he flipped open the book.

“This… This…”

Taking a look at it, Zhang Xuan’s lip twitched and a bizarre expression appeared on his face.

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 41: Treasure Speculation

“Is the Master Mo Yang you all speak of that incredible?” Zhang Xuan asked doubtfully.

To be capable of inciting the agitation of so many people and causing them to go into a frenzy, who was this Master Mo Yang? Just what kind of magical abilities did he possess?

“Yes, he is extremely incredible!” Reverence could be heard from the vendor’s tone. “He is an expert appraiser!”

“Appraiser?” Zhang Xuan nodded his head.

Appraiser and gourmet were both special occupations. However, the former was a Middle Nine Paths occupation.

This occupation might not be as glorious as apothecaries, blacksmiths and formation masters, but it was capable of sending innumerable people into hysteria.

That was because they were able to tell whether an item was a treasure or not just by looking at it. In the field of 【Treasure Speculation】, they possessed golden fingers that made them an existence similar to the God of Gambling. Many people would follow behind them reverently the moment they appeared in public.

Treasure speculation was a commercial activity similar to Earth’s rock speculation. There were some ancient treasures whose original radiance was buried under the cloak of rock and faunas. Just by the outer appearance itself, the most one could do was to identify what the artifact was. It was impossible to tell the tier of the treasure and the specifications of it.

Its true form would only be revealed when the exterior of the artifact was cleaned!

There were many treasure dealers who chose not to clean up these treasures and sell them in such a form instead. This was similar to the concept of rock gambling. After which, the buyer would purchase the artifact based on their discernment ability and intuition and clean up its exterior afterwards.

If they were lucky, it might turn out to be a supreme treasure, which would make them millionaires in an instant. On the other hand, it was also possible for them to go bankrupt after investing greatly on some useless object!

Heaven on one side and hell on the other.

It was due to the unreasonable unpredictability of the game that many people were obsessed with it, sometimes even going crazy over it.

Appraisers were capable of ascertaining whether a treasure was real or not. Those who were more capable were even able to make a judgment on an artifact before it has been tidied up. Thus, even though the occupation was only of the Middle Nine Paths, the charms of it had attracted many to walk on such a road.

After all, it was the Midas’s touch. As long as they thought that it was a treasure, people would buy it no matter how expensive they were.

“This Master Mo Yang arrived here seven days ago. It is rumored that he is an incredible appraiser from some other kingdom. However, back then, no one paid him any notice!”

The vendor introduced Master Mo Yang excitedly. “The first day, when someone wanted to buy a wine bottle-like object that costs about 100 gold coin, Master Mo Yang tried to persuade him otherwise. However, that person refused to listen and in the end, after wiping it clean, it was proven that there is a problem with the object and it wasn’t worth a single gold coin!

“The second day, Master Mo Yang persuaded a fighter to spend 200 gold coins to buy a treasure. That person refused to believe him, so he didn’t buy it. Thus, Master Mo Yang bought it himself and after it was wiped clean, it turned out to be a mortal pinnacle weapon! It is something that cannot be bought even with several thousand gold coins! He profited several dozen folds in an instant! That filled the fighter with so much regret that the thought of suicide even crossed his mind…

“By the third day, he was already very famous. There were many people who wanted his guidance on what they should buy. However, only a lucky lad was granted that opportunity. He advised him to buy a small jade bottle that is worth 500 gold coins! At that moment, many people thought that he had erred. No matter how incredible that jade vase was, it couldn’t possibly be worth such a sum… Who knew that the moment it was opened, six tier 6 pills were found inside! Someone even offered to buy that vase for 10000 gold coins on the spot!”

The vendor’s eyes lit up, “That is to say, a profit of twenty-fold! That is too incredible! The next few days, he came by the market every day and he only advised a single person on each day. Even so, the person that he chooses is certain to strike it rich! Many people went frenzied over this. Thus, they started to camp here from day to night, hoping to win his favor, so that he would offer them his pointer! Now that he’s here again, it is not abnormal for those people to be so agitated…”

“Amazing!”

Hearing the story of Master Mo Yang, Zhang Xuan’s eyes lit up as he nodded his head in approval.

[To be able to appraise the true worth of a treasure under a layer of moss and silt, his eye for discernment must be extraordinary.]

“Un, that’s right. I possess the Library of Heaven’s Path, so does it mean that… I am able to do it as well?”

Zhang Xuan’s eyes lit up.

The Library of Heaven’s Path allowed one to see through the true nature of things just by coming into contact with it. Other people might need some luck in treasure speculation, but he didn’t need such a thing!

“There is an easy way for me to strike it rich!”

Upon such thoughts, Zhang Xuan was unable to calm his agitated heart.

In rock speculation, before buying a rock, others would need to study the various aspects of the rock to deduce whether jade would come out of it. However, Zhang Xuan was different. Just by touching the artifact with his hands, the Library of Heaven’s Path in his mind would automatically generate an answer for him. Purchasing the artifact after knowing the answer, it would be a simple matter for him to profit out of this trade!

It just happened that his wage was low and he didn’t have much money. So, this was a good opportunity for him to give it a try to earn a sum!

Following the directions given by the vendor, Zhang Xuan soon arrived at the hall where treasure speculation was conducted.

As he expected, the sight in here wasn’t much different from rock speculation. All kinds of treasures were placed on an elevated platform and every single one of them was thickly covered by a layer of moss, silt, rust and rock. It was already a difficult task to make out the shape of the artifacts, needless to say, appraise its value.

“Let me give it a try first!”

It was true that Zhang Xuan was unable to discern between them just by sight alone. Although Zhang Xuan suspected that the Library of Heaven’s Path was able to peer into the true nature of the artifact, he was unable to ascertain it. Thus, to verify his theory, he casually touched an artifact that was about the size of a human’s head.

Weng!

His mind jolted and a book appeared in the library.

“Ornamental Vase, forged by a 1-mo craftsman from Southern Kiln. Flaws: It has cracks on it and could shatter at any moment…”

The description of the artifact was compiled into a book.

“Despite being massive, it turned out to be a trash!” Zhang Xuan commented impassively as his eyes glittered in excitement.

Just as he thought! As long as he came into physical contact with it, he was able to receive a detailed introduction on the artifact. Thus, he need not fear no matter how well-hidden these treasures were, he would surely be able to identify them accurately!

He casually touched a few of the larger artifacts before him and realized that none of them were of great value. He continued on with a dozen of the artifacts by the sides, but they weren’t really valuable either. Zhang Xuan couldn’t help but shake his head. It was no wonder the sellers of these artifacts were able to profit out of it and that appraisers were so well-received, the probability of a true treasure appearing among them was way too low!

“Ah, master, please give me some pointers!”

“I am willing to pay you for your advice!”

“Master, I’m begging you…”

…

Just as he was randomly touching the treasures casually, piercing screams echoed outside the hall as the sought-after Master Mo Yang walked over.

The eyes of those chasing behind him were crimson red, and they looked as though they have gone mad.

“Master, as long as you offer me your pointer, this young girl will obey every single command of yours…”

“Master, I am willing to bear your babies, as long as you guide me…”

There were even women who were sticking close to him, trying to seduce him with their physical charms.

Zhang Xuan was flabbergasted.

[He is way too popular! It seems as though with but a single word of Master Mo Yang, countless girls will be willing to serve him tonight.]

“I will be leaving Tianxuan Royal City tonight. In order to show my gratitude for the warmth everyone has welcomed me with, I will appraise for five people today! You all need not vie over it. There is a chance for everyone who is fated with me!”

Upon reaching the treasure speculation hall, Master Mo Yang stopped.

This Master Mo Yang had a snowy-white beard, which exposed his advanced age. Yet, his skin was smooth and shiny without a single crease on it, probably because he maintained his skin diligently. His eyes have an aura of superiority, making one feel inadequate in comparison. As such, no one was willing to meet his gaze.

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 40: The Master is Here

“Give me a punch?” The vendor didn’t know what the young man was up to.

“Indeed!” Zhang Xuan nodded his head.

“You are trying to make a fool out of me!” Seeing the serious look on the other person’s face, the vendor’s rage came surging out and he sent a fist towards Zhang Xuan.

He had seen crazy people before, but he had never seen such a crazy person. [You still want me to let you give me a punch? Why don’t I beat you up to death instead?]

Putting all of his strength into his punch routine, the wind rustled from the force of his blow, thus exposing his level of cultivation. Fighter 3-dan Zhenqi realm primary stage!

“Not bad!”

Smiling faintly, Zhang Xuan moved his body slightly to dodge the attack.

He had already reached Fighter 5-dan Dingli realm pinnacle. Naturally, the strength of a Fighter 3-dan primary stage could not hurt him!

“Un?”

He assumed that the young man was here just to cause trouble, so he thought that he would just be a delinquent without cultivation. However, upon seeing him dodge his attack easily, he immediately realized that the young man’s cultivation was on a higher level than his. The vendor stopped as bewilderment overwhelmed him. A fellow who had at least reached the level of Fighter 3-dan couldn’t possibly be really trying to buy stuff with just 8 gold coins…

“If I’m not wrong, you are from Xia Pingyi!”

The moment the vendor made a move, a book about him was compiled in the Library of Heaven’s Path. Getting what he had intended for, Zhang Xuan smiled faintly.

“How… How did you know?” The vendor was taken aback.

Xia Pingyi was one of the provincial cities around Tianxuan Royal City. It wasn’t a large city and there were at least eighty of such cities around the capital. The vendor was puzzled by how Zhang Xuan could pinpoint it out accurately.

He couldn’t resist looking down to study his appearance, but there didn’t seem to be any defining traits on him that would reveal his place of origin!

“It doesn’t matter how I know it!” Zhang Xuan activated his ‘acting cool mode’. He looked at the other party once again in a calm and dignified demeanor, “Half a year ago, you probably met with danger in Tianxuan Forest and was bitten by a 【Cold Bamboo Snake】! Although you managed to escape with your life, your kidneys were damaged. If I’m not wrong… When you are doing that, it is difficult for you to showcase your masculinity!”

“You… You…”

The vendor staggered backward. His eyes were widened so great that they were on the verge of falling to the floor.

It was true that he was bitten by a Cold Bamboo Snake in Tianxuan Forest half a year ago! After which… The latter half of Zhang Xuan’s words were true as well.

However, other than him and the lady from the brothel, he had never talked about it with another person. How did this young man know about it?

[Could it be that he is a seer? Someone who is capable of divining the future?]

The vendor was still filled with disbelief.

“Why? Are my words wrong?” Seeing the expression on the other party’s face, Zhang Xuan knew that what was written in the Library of Heaven’s Path wasn’t wrong. Thus, he expressed a look of pity and said, “If you find what I have said inaccurate, I can do without the medicinal herb and leave right now. However… Your only chance at treating your problem will disappear as well! Sigh, you won’t be able to be a man from henceforth, don’t blame me for not reminding you now…”

“I… Gongzi [1], don’t go!”

Hearing that the other party was capable of treating him, the vendor’s body trembled in agitation as he hurriedly took a step forward, “You… Can you really treat me?”

To a man, nothing was more pathetic than losing one’s potency. These days, he dared not respond to the invitations of his friends, afraid that his problem would be exposed in front of them. Suffering silently, he had looked for many different physicians, but they all came to the same conclusion, that his symptoms were hard to treat and the only solution was amputation…

He dared not believe that a casual buyer would point out his problem directly and even claim that he was capable of treating it.

“I won’t force you to believe me! However, since I am able to tell what is wrong with you, naturally, I have my own ways to treat it as well!” Zhang Xuan declared.

“Gongzi, I plead you to help treat me. As long as you can treat me… Not just that single stalk of Frigid Sun Grass, you can take all of my herbs!” The vendor lunged forward in panic, the plea in his eyes clear to see.

There were too many incredible people in the world. The words of the young man were logical since he was able to see through his problem, he definitely had a way to treat it!

Besides, he had no choice but to grasp onto every straw of hope that he could find. After all, this concerned his future happiness…

“Un, you were bitten by the Cold Bamboo Snake. This creature inherently possesses cold attribute. When you were bitten by it, cold energy irrupted into your body, causing you to lose your physical function! Furthermore, it is unable to be dispelled by any medicinal herb, thus even quite a few apothecaries will find themselves helpless before it!”

“However, what is bizarre about this snake is that even though its entire body is cold, its gall is warm. As long as you find another snake, kill it and consume its gall, you are able to expel the cold energy from your body completely. Your damaged kidney will gradually recover and you will be able to showcase your masculinity as a man once more!”

Zhang Xuan said.

There were many antidotes to the poison of the Cold Bamboo Snake, but the best antidote of all lied in its body. Its gall was the crux to counteracting its unique cold energy.

This was written on one of the manuals in Hongtian Compendium Pavilion. Upon the thought of Cold Bamboo Snakes, this information popped up into his mind.

This was also precisely the reason why he only mentioned the gall bladder of the Cold Bamboo Snake. Otherwise, with the Library of Heaven’s Path capability of displaying innumerable flaws, there was a multitude of remedies he could provide him; he need not specifically choose this one.

“Eating the snake gall of a Cold Bamboo Snake?” The vendor was still in a state of disbelief.

[So simple?]

If this was true, why did none of the many physicians he had visited say so?

“There should be Cold Bamboo Snakes on sale in this commercial city. If you doubt my words, you can buy one of them and try it right now. I will only leave after we verify it!” Zhang Xuan said.

Medicinal herbs weren’t the only things on sale in Tianyu Commercial City, there were also all kinds of treasures, savage beasts and animals. Cold Bamboo Snake was one of the lower tier savage beasts. Although it contained lethal poison within it, it could be used in concocting medicines, so there were people selling it.

“Fine, wait for a moment…”

After hesitating for a moment, the vendor turned around and left. A short moment later, he returned with a cage, and a Cold Bamboo Snake was coiling around in it.

As a Zhenqi realm fighter, as long as he was prepared, killing a Cold Bamboo Snake wasn’t a difficult task. It didn’t take long for the snake gall to be extracted. Without any hesitation, the vendor swallowed it directly.

“Un?”

Soon, the vendor’s eyes lit up.

The vendor seemed to have already gotten an answer to whether the remedy worked or not.

“I thank gongzi for your help. These Frigid Sun Grass are all yours!” With his eyes glowing with excitement, the vendor nearly knelt down in gratitude from the joy surging through him.

This was a problem that had been plaguing him for a long time. In fact, there was even a period when he didn’t want to live anymore. In order to treat this deficiency of his, he spent several years’ worth of his savings, and never did he expect to be treated just like that!

“See, I didn’t lie when I said that you would give them to me for free!”

Zhang Xuan helped himself to the generous gifts of the vendor and grabbed the box filled with Frigid Sun Grass.

Knowledge was a type of wealth as well. It was natural for Zhang Xuan to receive some compensation from the vendor after solving the illness that was plaguing him.

“Gongzi, I apologize for my inadequacy for not realizing your capabilities… I beg for your forgiveness!” The vendor scratched his head in embarrassment.

Just a moment ago, he was still declaring resolutely that if he were to give the Frigid Sun Grasses to Zhang Xuan for free, he would call him grandpa. Never would he expect for Zhang Xuan’s words to truly come to be…

“It’s nothing!” Zhang Xuan casually waved his hand to show that it was a small matter. Just as he was about to leave, a crowd of people suddenly dashed forward, their faces red from agitation.

“Quick, Master Mo Yang is here!”

“One would be able to prosper through the guidance of Master Mo Yang. This is an opportunity not to be missed!”

“This time, as long as it is a treasure that Master Mo Yang appraised, I will buy it no matter how much it costs!”

“Indeed, I felt regretful after missing that opportunity by the previous time…”

…

The crowd discussed as they ran over.

“What is happening?”

Seeing how the crowd were agitated as though a star had arrived, Zhang Xuan was puzzled.

“Master Mo Yang has come!” Even the eyes of the vendor were glowing with excitement.

------

[1] Gongzi -> Gentleman

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 39: Frigid Sun Mother Grass

"Right, do you sell Frigid Sun Grass here?"

Shaking his head to dispel the additional thoughts in his mind, Zhang Xuan asked.

On top of miscellaneous items, this vendor also sold some herbs.

After finishing those books in the Compendium Pavilion, he had already found a solution to Zhao Ya's problem. With a Pure Yin Body, she should cultivate a gentle and neutral cultivation technique. This way, the problem of the accumulation of yin energy should be solved!

However, she had already cultivated a pure yin cultivation technique for a long time and the meridians in her body have already adapted to it. If an abrupt change were to be introduced, her body might sustain a severe trauma and her cultivation would fall steeply. To prevent this from occurring, some preparations have to be made in advance!

One of them was to nourish her meridians through medicinal herbs!

Frigid Sun Grass grew in cold regions despite favoring sunny conditions. As a result, the warm and cold spiritual energy contained within it clashed, causing the amalgamation of yin and yang, thus making it the ideal choice for nourishing her meridians. Since he was in the commercial city now, it was a good time for him to ask around about it.

"Frigid Sun Grass? It is a coincidence that you ask this. Not to brag, but I can guarantee you that I am the only vendor in Tianyu Commercial City that has this good. I procured them a few days ago from a dangerous region in Tianxuan Forest. I have a total of ten stalks and each stalk costs 100 gold coins. How many do you need?"

The vendor smiled and turned around to take out a box. Opening it, a few fresh-looking plants were revealed within.

White flowers with red stems and leaves.

"Let me take a look first!"

Zhang Xuan only knew about the Frigid Sun Grass through reading books, so he wasn't very familiar with it. He reached out to grab a stalk and placed it on his palm.

Weng!

The library jolted and a book appeared.

"Frigid Sun Grass, harvested from an unknown valley 200km into Tianxuan Forest. Aged 2... Flaws..."

The name of the herb was written on the cover of the book, and the location of its procurement and its flaws were recorded in it.

"It is Frigid Sun Grass, this fellow isn't lying!"

Confirming that there was no mistake with the name on the book, Zhang Xuan knew that the vendor owner wasn't lying to him. This was the authentic medicinal herb, so he nodded his head. Just when he was about to speak, his eyes happened to glance on the interiors of the box.

"Why does this stalk of Frigid Sun Grass look slightly withered? Could it be that your procurement method is incorrect, causing its death?"

There was a specific method to harvesting medicinal herbs. If the method was wrong, the medicinal properties of the herb might be lost, causing its price to drop steeply.

The stalk of Frigid Sun Grass he was talking about was withered thin and slightly yellow, seemingly immature. Furthermore, it didn't look fresh at all. With a shriveled large head, it seemed as though it would die at any moment

"This gentleman here must be joking. I depend on this for a living, so how could I possibly get it wrong! This stalk of herb isn't of good condition from the very start, it was already like that when I procured it initially. If you want it, I will sell it to you at half price, 50 gold coins!"

The vendor said.

"Un!"

Zhang Xuan picked up the yellowish and withered stalk of Frigid Sun Grass.

Weng!

"Frigid Sun Mother Grass, the origin of other Frigid Sun Grasses. harvested from an unknown valley 200km into Tianxuan Forest. Aged 15..." Flipping open the book, the name of the herb and details on it were recorded.

"Frigid Sun Mother Grass?" Zhang Xuan's eyes lit up.

He had read it on the books previously. This extremely valuable and rare herb was the core of all other Frigid Sun Grass. If this herb were to be used in the creation of a medicine, its effectiveness would at least be ten times the latter!

He didn't expect to stumble upon this treasure when he was just casually looking for herbs. Furthermore, this herb was 15 year old. Just by this determined its extraordinary worth.

If Zhao Ya were to use the Frigid Sun Grass to nourish her meridians, she would still require the augmentation from several other means to successfully change her cultivation technique. However, with this stalk of Frigid Sun Grass, the problem could be easily solved. She wouldn't even need the augmentation from other means!

This was the most suitable medicinal herb for her, no questions about it!

"Wrap this stalk up for me!"

Although he was agitated, his face still remained expressionless as he casually passed it back to the vendor.

If the other party realized that this was a mother stalk and not a sickly one, its price would instantly shoot up by ten times and even so, he might still be unable to purchase it from him!

As a Four Haves Youngster [1] who grew up in the modern civilized world, he wouldn't do himself any injustice when he was able to profit out of something.

"50 gold coins!"

Seeing how well-dressed the young man seemed to be, he thought that he would purchase a few stalks. He didn't expect that he would just buy a sickly one. Pursing his lips, he wrapped it casually, the warmth from before absent on his face.

Even a vendor judged his own customers when doing sales. The person before him wasn't even willing to buy a good medicinal herb, thus making it clear to see that he was a poor bloke. Since that's the case, it would just be a waste of time to try to coax him otherwise.

"Alright!"

Grabbing the herb, Zhang Xuan reached out to his pocket and awkwardness immediately showed on his face.

Due to being too absorbed in the library, he forgot about the matter of money... As a low-level teacher, his wage was low. Furthermore, due to scoring a zero in the Teacher Qualification Examination, his fortunes were penalized severely... In other words, he didn't even have 10 gold coins in his pocket, needless to say, 50.

"Is there anything wrong?" Sensing that something was amiss from his face, the vendor asked.

"Cough cough, can you... sell it to me for eight gold coins?" Zhang Xuan counted the gold coins he retrieved from his pocket, only having eight pieces of them.

"Eight? You must be joking! Since you didn't bring any money, why are you trying to buy anything at all..."

Seeing the few coins placed on the other party's palm, the vendor owner was on the verge of doing a somersault and crashing to the floor.

He had met with miserly customers, but he had never met with such a miserly one!

[Trying to buy Frigid Sun Grass with just eight gold coins? You must be dreaming! Even if this stalk is sickly, it is still worth far beyond this price.]

Snatching back the herb, he waved his hand with an annoyed look, "Scram if you don't have any money. I don't have the effort to be arguing with you over this!"

"Cough cough! It is true that I didn't bring sufficient money, but are you sure that you don't want to sell it to me?"

Seeing the attitude of the vendor, Zhang Xuan shook his head.

"Nonsense! Even if this stalk looks awful, it still contains medicinal properties. At worst, it can still be sold for 30 or 40 gold coins. Yet, you offer me eight gold coins? What a joke! Hurry up and leave, or else I will be calling for the security enforcement team!"

Seeing how this fellow was reluctant to leave despite being broke, he angrily chased him away.

In order to prevent people from coercing others to buy or sell goods, as well as to deter troublemakers, most large commercial cities operated a security enforcement patrol team in their perimeter. As long as one called out for them, they would appear quickly. Even if you were a Fighter 5-dan Dingli realm expert, you would be chased out of the commercial city instantly!

Furthermore, to make a move on the security enforcement team meant making a move on the entire commercial city. Normally, no one would have the guts to stand up against them.

Upon seeing how this fellow refused to leave despite not possessing sufficient money, he was certain that he was here to cause trouble. So, he opened his mouth to call for the security enforcement team.

"Don't call for the security enforcement team, I'm really interested in buying it!" Zhang Xuan interrupted him. With a calm and steady look, he chuckled softly, "I might not have sufficient money, but I'm not here to cause trouble. Do you believe that if I were to open my mouth, not only will you be willing to sell it to me, you would even offer to give it to me for free?"

"Give it to you for free? Are you still in the midst of your sleep?"

The vendor didn't expect the poor bloke to say such words. He looked at the young man before him with an attitude as though he was looking at an idiot, and sneered coldly, "If I were to really give it to you for free, I'll call you grandpa!"

In his opinion, this fellow must have a screw loose. Not mentioning how he didn't bring sufficient money to purchase goods, he even thought that he would give it to him for free...

[I am not insane, why would I give it to you for free?

Who do you think you are!]

"Call me grandpa? You don't need to do that!" Zhang Xuan shook his head. He looked at the vendor with a bright smile and said, "You will give it to me for free because I said so. If you doubt my words... I will take two steps... Cough cough, let's see what will happen after I give you a punch!"

------

[1] Four Haves refer to Dream, Moral, Culture and Discipline. Originated from Deng Xiao Ping in 1980.

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 38: Reprise Bell

It was a scene of chaos in Hongtian Pavilion.

“What happened? I have barely been away for a while and such a sight awaited my return?”

In a room, an elderly was staring coldly at the kneeling Manager Wu.

He was the mastermind behind Hongtian Pavilion, Elder Hong Hao.

“Elder, it is like that. The grandson of Elder Shang Chen, Shang Bin, has been here…” Manager Wu didn’t dare to conceal anything and disclosed everything that had happened.

This included the affair which he swapped the Drunk Immortal with Green Crag Brew.

“Wu Chou, how dare you!”

After hearing Wu Chou’s words, Elder Hong Hao’s face darkened and he angrily sent a kick towards him.

Peng!

Manager Wu was immediately sent flying backward. His face paled as he vomited mouthful after mouthful of blood. “Elder, spare me! I do not dare hope to be forgiven for my crimes, but that fellow is even viler. To expose all of these in public and causing the reputation of our Hongtian Pavilion to be ruined, he obviously disregards you completely…”

“Hmph! After doing such shameful things, you still expect others not to talk about them?” Elder Hong Hao’s face looked hostile, as though a violent storm was gathering on it

“I…”

Manager Wu trembled uncontrollably.

Changing the contents of the dishes to earn more profits was a decision he made at his own discretion. He thought that he had concealed it perfectly. Yet, he was exposed by that young man in public. Naturally, he felt great resentment against him.

“I’ll give you five days to settle this problem thoroughly. I want the negative impacts to be reduced to the bare minimum! If so, I can consider not to pursue the matter of your corruption. Otherwise, don’t even dream of getting away alive!” Elder Hong Hao’s eyes were cold, like blizzard at night. Standing up, he asked, “Also, what is the name of that fellow? Is he a teacher of the academy? If he had informed me discreetly, I might have rewarded him with a sum of fortune, but he chose to cause trouble in public instead, soiling the reputation of my Hongtian Pavilion. I will have a good look at him tomorrow to see the one who gave him such guts!”

Bellowing furiously, a savage aura filled the surroundings. It felt like a frontal assault by a wave of frost, causing one to shiver uncontrollably despite the warm weather.

Fighter 7-dan Tongxuan realm!

This Elder Hong Hao was a Tongxuan realm expert! It was no wonder that he was able to vie for the position of the principal. Just his level of cultivation itself was already astonishing!

“It… It is Zhang Xuan laoshi!”

Manager Wu quickly said.

“Zhang Xuan? The one who was the last in the Teacher Qualification Examination?” Elder Hong Hao was taken aback.

Hongtian Academy had never had a single teacher scoring at the very bottom of the Teacher Qualification Examination throughout its centuries of history since its inception. Thus, even a person like Elder Hong Hao had heard of Zhang Xuan’s name.

“That’s him…” Manager Wu nodded his head.

“A trash would actually dare to trample on the dignity of Hongtian Pavilion? Excellent!” Clenching his fist, a cold glint flashed across his eyes. A heavy, murderous intent emanated from Elder Hong Hao.

If the other party was a star teacher or an influential figure in the academy, he might have some hesitation over punishing him. However, since he was a trash… Then, don’t blame him for being heartless!

………………………………

“Sigh, how troublesome!”

Returning back to his dwelling, Zhang Xuan massaged the center of his eyebrows.

He would have never thought it possible for so much trouble to evolve from just a simple meal.

“Forget it, there’s no use pondering over it. I better spend my time thinking about how I can break into Pixue realm!”

Quickly, he dumped all excessive thoughts to the back of his head.

Despite being a transcender, he knew that in this world, power reigns over might. Only with sufficient power would the problems of one cease to be.

He was currently at Dingli realm pinnacle and to break through, he would need the cultivation techniques of Fighter 6-dan.

However, an ordinary teacher didn’t have the qualification to browse through the 6-dan cultivation techniques of the academy. They could jot down a copy of it only with the approval of an elder.

In the previous examination, he only had the strength of a Fighter 3-dan. If he were to rush to an elder to ask for a 6-dan cultivation technique now, he might end up being researched like a guinea pig. Many troubles would grow out of it.

Furthermore, even with the approval of the other party, with just one copy… He was still unable to cultivate!

Based on the first five dans of Hongtian Nine Dan Formula, this cultivation technique possessed too many flaws. Without the cross references from numerous other cultivation techniques to seek the correct cultivation method, there wouldn’t be any results in his training even if he were to train nonstop for several years.

To him, the most pressing matter at hand was to seek a huge pile of Fighter 6-dan cultivation techniques and draw comparisons among them to deduce the correct cultivation method.

“Un, I’ve heard that quite a bit of trading is done in Tianxuan Royal City, and cultivation techniques are one of the goods that are being traded. It would solve quite a bit of problem if I am able to purchase a few 6-dan cultivation techniques!”

Suddenly, upon recalling something, Zhang Xuan’s eyes lit up.

Hongtian Academy was located in the capital of Tianxuan Kingdom, Tianxuan Royal City. Tianxuan Royal City was an extraordinarily prosperous city. With numerous large commercial cities in here, all kinds of trade were being carried out. 6-dan cultivation techniques might be rare, but it was still sold in numerous shops here.

Furthermore, to Zhang Xuan, there wasn’t really a need for him to buy them. As long as he managed to flip through them, it would be as good as gaining possession of the secret manual.

With the Library of Heaven’s Path, the quality and price of the secret manual no longer matter. As long as there was sufficient quantity, he would be able to derive the correct path out of the innumerable errors, and the Heaven’s Path Divine Art would be automatically compiled, thus allowing him to cultivate swiftly.

“It is still early. Let’s see if I am able to get a few books today!”

At this point, Zhang Xuan stopped hesitating and stood up immediately.

The sun had just set and the nightlife had just begun. Since he was free anyway, it was a good opportunity to stroll through the commercial cities. Perhaps, he might even find some useful items.

Tianyu Commercial City was the largest trading market in Tianxuan City. It was said that as long as one possessed sufficient money, he was able to buy everything he desired here.

Stepping into the market, Zhang Xuan felt his vision blurring from the sight of the innumerable goods laid out before him.

His previous self was just an ordinary teacher. His wages were low and he was treated poorly. As a result, he had never been to such a grand place before. Thus, Zhang Xuan found himself incapable of identifying most of the goods on sale here.

There were many small vendors in the commercial city. A vendor would sit in front of each of these booths and all kinds of goods were laid out before them.

Weapons, pills, herbs, armor, beast skin, beast pills…

Almost everything that was required for cultivation could be found here.

Just that there were too many of them. It was difficult to ascertain which of them were of superior quality and which of them were of inferior quality.

“I may be unable to discern between the good and the bad, but the Library of Heaven’s Path may be capable of it!”

Such a thought flashed through his mind. Thus, Zhang Xuan immediately walked over to a booth.

“This gentleman here, what are you looking for? I have everything you need here, and I guarantee your satisfaction with my goods!” The vendor quickly welcomed his presence.

“I’ll just take a casual look!” Zhang Xuan smiled. He casually picked up an object in the booth.

It was a circular bell of average size.

“This bell is specially forged by a blacksmith and has extraordinary abilities. It is on sale for just 50 gold coins. I can assure you that the price is fair. I offer the very same price to everyone passing by! If you’re interested in it, I can give you a special discount… It’ll be yours for just 20 gold coins!”

The vendor coaxed.

Zhang Xuan didn’t respond to his words. Rather, he twirled the bell around his hand.

Weng!

The library in his mind jolted and a book appeared in it.

“Reprise Bell. It is able to generate the same tune over and over again, causing one to feel dizzy-headed. It is effective against Fighter 1-dan. It is created by a 1-mo craftsman of Blue Cloud Workshop. It is made of Wujin Metal…”

“Flaws: No. 1, the duration required for the reprise sound to take effect is long, requiring at least an incense’s time, making it an ineffective weapon in battle. No. 2, it doesn’t differentiate in its attacks, the wielder will take damage from it as well…”

~15 minute

“Indeed, it is possible!” Zhang Xuan smiled.

It didn’t matter even if he was unfamiliar with all these items. As long as he touched them with his hands and picked them up, the library would compile a corresponding book on it!

Furthermore, this book detailed the history, composition and all kinds of flaws of the item in question comprehensively. With just a single look, it was apparent to see if the item was valuable or not.

Those who were unaware of the truth might just buy it with the vendor’s previous offer of 20 gold coins. Only by looking at the contents recorded in the book did Zhang Xuan realize that this toy wasn’t even worth 2 gold coins!

[What specially forged by a blacksmith… Blue Cloud Workshop is an organization that specializes in the production of fake goods.

Furthermore, 1-mo craftsmen are the ones with the worst craftsmanship of them all.]

Those who specialized in the creation of goods and handicraft were termed as craftsmen. They were classified into 9 mo, with 1-mo being the worst and 9-mo being the best.

How valuable could a creation of a 1-mo craftsman be?

“With the library here, I won’t have to worry about purchasing fake goods…”

Zhang Xuan chuckled.

This world was similar to his previous one. With authentic goods come imitations. Given his previous ability of discernment, needless to say, the authentic ones, he might not even be able to tell the strengths and weaknesses of an imitation. However, with the assistance of the library, he didn’t have to worry about it anymore.

Just that, he needed to come into contact with the item for a book to be compiled on it. The number of items in this market total up to at least ten million. If he had to touch every single one of them, wouldn’t he tire himself to death?

Besides, if he were to just look at the goods, he wouldn’t attract much attention. However, if he touched everything his sight caught, it probably wouldn’t take long for the security enforcement team of the commercial city to think of him as a lunatic and drive him out of the city.