Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 147: Can I Learn From You?

"Ah? Spear... Spear Intent?"

Wang Chong's body swayed and he nearly fainted.

Are you for real?

How can you display Spear Intent? Furthermore, such a pure Spear Intent!

He was astonished. Noticing Zhang Xuan's embarrassed look, he nearly threw up blood.

Embarrassed? Embarrassed your head!

Brother, can you not fool others like that? Didn't you say that you never learned the way of the spear? Didn't you say that you didn't know what spear arts were?

I have started learning the way of the spear since eight and I had spent forty years since then dedicating my life to it. Even so, I am still a long way from achieving Spear Intent... Can you explain to me roughly, what is with that overwhelming Spear Intent of yours?

Didn't you say that you do not know what Spear Intent is? Then what in the world is this?

Tears streamed down Wang Cong’s face.

You shouldn't play with someone like that!

It was laughable that he had reprimanded the other party so brazenly earlier on, saying that he wouldn't understand it even if he explained it noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

Where did this self-confidence come from?

Or rather, the one who didn't understand was he himself...

He hated the fact that there wasn't a hole here for him to dive into.

"This is Spear Intent?"

Ouyang Cheng was stunned.

Right after displaying a moment of Spear Intent, his old friend was already sweating profusely and panting for air, as though he had been constipated for a few days straight. Yet, this fellow was able to execute it easily as and when he liked, as though it were merely eating and drinking…

Are you the spear master, or Wang Chong is?

"You... Didn't you say that you have never learned about spears?"

Overwhelmed with shock, Ouyang Cheng asked. Wang Chong also hurriedly shifted his attention to hear how the other party would explain it.

"It is true that I haven't learned it before!" Zhang Xuan replied truthfully.

"If you have never learned it before, how can you have such a powerful Spear Intent?" Wang Chong was about to go mad.

If you were able to display such powerful Spear Intent without any prior experience, given my achievement despite how I have spent my life immersing myself in the art, I must have been spending my time on learning nonsense...

"Oh, I was just reading the books in the study and an epiphany struck me. I realized that executing spear art in this form felt the most comfortable, so I got into the form. I didn't know that this is Spear Intent!"

Zhang Xuan said after a short moment of contemplation.

Zhang Xuan wasn't trying to feign ignorance. Rather, the books in the study were truly only about the very basics of spearmanship, so there wasn't a single one that detailed Spear Intent. He only happened to grow such a disposition due to the Heaven's Path Spear Art formed through these books.

As for how Spear Intent could be used and how useful it was to a spear wielder, he had no idea at all.

Wang Chong's tears continued streaming down his face.

You described it as though it were as easy as eating and drinking, do you know how much effort I have put into the matter, only to fail time and time again?

For the past decade, I had been building my mental fortitude, entering desolate lands, overcoming the frost and withstanding the heat. Even so, I have yet to succeed. Yet, you simply came to the study, read some books and unintentionally... managed to reach such a level!

My heart! My liver! My youth!

If there were a huge pit before him, he would have definitely jumped in to bury himself alive.

Can you not destroy my confidence like that?

If you said that you had put in a lot of effort, trained daily and simply happened to achieve a breakthrough, I would feel a little better. But you have only spent two hours reading through books, and... and yet you have already achieved a breakthrough...

Furthermore, what you were reading weren't profound secret manuals. They were just elementary books on spearmanship...

If word were to spread out, all spear masters in the capital would definitely die from shame.

"Wang Chong, humans aren't born with equal talents. Perhaps, Apothecary Zhang... may truly be gifted in the way of the spear!" Seeing his despondent old friend who had been struck a heavy blow, Ouyang Cheng tried to console him.

"Alright, I can only take it as that!"

As expected of an expert spear practitioner, he had already forged his will to become as resilient as steel. Even though he was dispirited, he soon readjusted his mental state. Just as he was about to speak, he heard a young man's perplexed voice echo in the air.

"You say that I have comprehended Spear Intent, but what does Spear Intent do?"

Wang Chong's staggered once more. Enduring his crumbling heart, he explained, "Spear Intent refers to one's understanding of the spear; reaching Spear Intent means that the spear has already become an extension of the practitioner’s arms. Under such a state, any movement he makes can be considered as a spear art. This is something that can only be achieved when one reaches the pinnacle of spearmanship!"

"Any movement made can be considered as spear art?" Zhang Xuan's eyes lit up. "Great! If my student can comprehend Spear Intent, he would be able to achieve victory in the Freshmen Tournament!"

Since Spear Intent is that formidable, Zhang Xuan decided to give Zheng Yang a good lesson when he returned. As long as he is able to achieve such a state, even if he didn't possess profound spear arts in his arsenal, it is unlikely for him to lose to his opponent.

"You want to help your student comprehend it as well?" Wang Chong trembled.

Spear Intent is a person's understanding toward the spear. Do you think that everyone is as overpowered as you so as to be able to achieve a breakthrough just by looking at some books?

He wanted to convince the other party to drop the idea, but he didn't know where he should start from.

"Right, I have learned a technique when I was looking through the books earlier back, but I have no idea how powerful it would be. Since Brother Wang is a spear master, can you offer me some pointers?"

Zhang Xuan had no concept of Spear Intent, so he wasn't as shocked as the other party. Recalling the move that the Heaven's Path Library created, he couldn't help but speak up.

The person before him was a renowned spear master in the entire kingdom. He would definitely be able to point out the strengths and weaknesses of the move.

"You even comprehended a technique? Fine, I am also interested to see what kind of move a genius like you is able to comprehend!"

Wang Chong nodded his head and sent a subordinate to fetch a spear over.

Soon, he returned carrying two spears.

"The best way to test the strength of a move is through sparring! Apothecary Zhang, show me the move you have just comprehended!" It was as though Wang Chong had transformed the moment a spear was grasped in his hands. His aura was ferocious, as though a savage ancient beast had awakened from his sleep.

In his view, even though the other party had comprehended Spear Intent, his absolute strength and ability to wield the spear should still be inferior to him. Even if the other party has any special moves, he should be able to handle it with ease.

"Alright!" It just happened that Zhang Xuan wanted to try out his move. Thus, he casually grabbed the other spear.

He had never once grabbed a spear in his life. However, after comprehending Spear Intent, the spear felt like a perfect fit in his hands.

"Let's begin!"

The moment Zhang Xuan felt so, his aura evolved immediately, as though the ordinary young man from before had become a domineering conqueror.

Hu!

Charging forward, his spear shot out explosively from his palms.

This technique was something he created after compiling the essence of thousands of manuals. All of the complexities had been simplified into this one single concise move. The zhenqi in his entire body churned and the spear flew out as though a massive rising from the ocean, soaring into the skies.

"What?"

Initially, he didn't pay much heed to Wang Chong, but upon witnessing the spear piercing straight at him, goosebumps were raised on his body immediately and he was almost scared witless.

The move may look simple, inelegant and even ugly, but it focused all of the cultivator's strength and spirit into a single point. This... This... This was supreme spear art!

Boom!

Without much time to think, Wang Chong's exerted all his strength in one stroke and met Zhang Xuan's blow with one of his own.

Unleashing his full strength, his cultivation realm was also revealed... Fighter 7-dan, Tongxuan realm!

Ding!

The two spears met in the air and a massive shock wave was generated, sending intense gusts to the surroundings.

Deng deng deng deng!

Zhang Xuan retreated seven to eight steps before stopping. On the other hand, Wang Chong was still rooted to his spot.

It was clear who the victor was in the simple face-off.

Zhang Xuan didn't use his full strength. He had limited it to 40 ding and naturally, wouldn't be able to withstand a full strength attack by a Tongxuan realm advanced stage expert.

However, due to the incredible resilience of his body and his pure zhenqi, even though he was forced back, he wasn't injured at all.

"As expected of a spear master, incredible!"

Seeing that the other party had managed to easily deal with a move derived by the Library of Heaven's Path, Zhang Xuan was impressed.

On the other hand, Wang Chong nearly fainted from fear.

The other party's seemingly simple spear art had forced him to execute his trump card. Furthermore... Even though he didn't retreat a single step and it looked as though he had the upper hand, there was a dull pain in his chest and his blood flow had become erratic. He had been wounded considerably in the face-off.

If not for him suppressing forcefully, he would have spurted a mouthful of blood.

No matter what, he was a Tongxuan realm advanced stage expert... For him to be unable to match up to a Pixue realm opponent... It was a difference of an entire cultivation realm between them.

Normally, it would be impossible for one to defeat an opponent who had a higher cultivation realm.

It was hard to tell what he would think if he were to know that the young man before him had only used half of his strength in this face-off.

"This move is truly incredible..."

After taking a long time to adjust his breathing, Wang Chong couldn’t help but compliment.

The move was simply too amazing!

He had always thought that he was a genius, and he had also created quite a few spear techniques. However, compared to this move, they were all trash. The difference between the two was like comparing dirt to gem.

"That's great. I want to impart this move to my student. Can Brother Wang offer me some pointers so that I can improve it?"

Zhang Xuan asked.

"Pointers..." Wang Chong's face flushed.

Apothecary Zhang, are you here to slap my face?

Putting aside the fact that you have achieved Spear Intent and that every single move of yours is a spear art, this move... I can't even comprehend the move, how can I offer you pointers?

Even though he was a spear master, he wasn't able to tell how his opponent executed the move and how the attack came at him... He felt so embarrassed that he could commit suicide.

"This move... has no problems. You can impart it to your student like this!"

After saying those words, Wang Chong's face felt a burning sensation on his face.

An hour ago, he had thought that the young man didn't understand spearmanship, and that he was insulting the way of the spear. But now... He felt that he was the one insulting the way of the spear.

The other party had only read two hours of books, and not only did he comprehend Spear Intent, he had even created such an incredible technique. On the other hand, he had practiced spearmanship for more than forty years, but had only reached such a nonsensical level...

In an instant, he felt blood welling up in his chest, ready to spurt out at any moment.

After the embarrassment, a daring thought suddenly emerged in his mind.

The essence of the other party's technique was to concentrate one's entire strength to one single point. In this aspect, it resembled Spear Intent greatly. If he were to learn the move, he might be able to break through the final barrier obstructing him and achieve Spear Intent.

"Apothecary Zhang, can you... teach me this move?"

After a moment of hesitation, he asked red-faced.

"You wish to learn? Sure, I can teach you!"

After a moment of surprise, Zhang Xuan agreed to his request with a smile.

Hearing the conversation between the two, Ouyang Cheng staggered.

Wasn't Zhang Xuan the one who came here today to learn spearmanship from Wang Chong?

How did... their roles... get swapped?

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 146: Spear Intent

Under the gazebo, Wang Chong and Ouyang Chong were seated across one another, drinking.

"You say that this Apothecary Zhang... passed the Pill Debate examination?"

Even until now, Wang Chong found it hard to believe.

Pill Debate is virtually a special privilege for master teachers, something that is meant for only the very best. Yet, a young man who wasn't even twenty managed to pass this examination. Even though he was hearing it firsthand from a reliable source, he nevertheless dares not to believe it to be possible.

"Indeed, Apothecary Zhang's knowledge on herbs and pills is superior even to that of mine. He is bound to reach great heights!" Ouyang Cheng couldn't help but be impressed whenever he recalled Zhang Xuan's deeds.

"Even though he is incredible in pills and herbs, his understanding of the spear is too shallow. Spearmanship isn't a game, one can't learn just by looking. If it were that easy, I wouldn't have had to immerse myself in it for my whole life thus far."

Wang Chong's face shone with pride and overwhelming confidence reflected in his eyes.

"Indeed, the spear is the most complicated among all weapons. How could it be easy to achieve mastery?"

Of the numerous weapons, the spear was the hardest weapon to master. Countless cultivators had taken on the challenge only to end up locked out of the gates of success.

Sighing, Ouyang Cheng suddenly remembered something and glanced at Wang Chong, "There aren't any exclusive spear art secret manuals in your study, are there?"

He brought Zhang Xuan here. If his old friend were to accidentally reveal some family heirloom secret manuals to him, he truly would have to feel apologetic.

"Of course not. The spear arts that I created, as well as my family's secret manuals, are all kept in my mind. They are only passed down by word, other people are unable to learn it even if they wanted to!"

Wang Chong chuckled, "Those that are in the study are all regarding the basics and fundamentals of spearmanship. It is useful for those who have just come into contact with the spear. It's not a big deal to allow Apothecary Zhang to browse through them. Besides, letting him read through them is a good idea, he should realize how difficult spearmanship is and drop his immature thoughts!"

To be thinking about teaching spearmanship when you know nothing at all, what a joke!

If spearmanship were that easy, he wouldn't have possessed the fame that he has now, such that even Emperor Shen Zhui complimented him personally.

The Spear Master wasn't a title that came out of nowhere.

For this matter, he had absolute confidence and pride!

"Indeed..." Ouyang Cheng nodded his head.

There isn’t a single weapon or battle technique that can be mastered easily. They require continuous training to refine every single move to the very perfection. If it could be grasped that easily, experts would be worth nothing at all.

"Apothecary Zhang is still young and it is natural for him to be ambitious. After he's done browsing through those books, I will reveal a spear art to him so that he would realize the difficulty and give up on those ludicrous thoughts!"

Even though Wang Chong was unsatisfied with Zhang Xuan's actions, he dared not to underestimate him, especially after knowing his talent in pill forging.

"Alright, I guess he should probably give up after that and focus on pill forging. I am still looking forward to our first 2-star apothecary in our Apothecary Guild..."

Ouyang Cheng chuckled. Just as he was about to continue speaking, he saw Wang Chong's body stiffen abruptly before trembling uncontrollably.

Dang lang!

He was oblivious to the fact that the wine cup he held in his hand had dropped to the floor and shattered into pieces.

"Wang Chong..."

Looking at the spear master, whose strength was top-notch in the entire Tianxuan City, acting so strangely all of the sudden, Ouyang Cheng was horrified.

He had never heard that his old friend was sick!

Why did he start convulsing all of the sudden?

"It's Spear Intent, Spear Intent!"

Just when he was considering what pill he should pop into his friend's mouth to save him, the latter suddenly recovered. His eyes glowed as though a priceless treasure was right before him. noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

"Spear Intent? What is that?"

Seeing that he was fine, Ouyang Cheng heaved a sigh of relief and looked at him curiously.

What could it be, for it to be able to make his friend, who was as steady as a mountain, behave in such a manner?

"Those who reach a certain level of mastery in the sword can form the Sword Intent. Similarly, those who are able to exude Spear Intent are the true spear masters. These few years, the reason why I had confined myself to the residence was so that I can temper my mind to enter such a state. However, it is a pity that I had been unable to achieve a breakthrough... When did such an expert appear in the residence? Or did someone manage to achieve a breakthrough before I did? Let's go over to take a look!"

He stood up abruptly and proceeded toward the origin of the Spear Intent.

After developing Spear Intent, whatever one did with the spear would be a spear art.

He had always strived for this goal, but he had managed to find the way. He never imagined that someone who could form Spear Intent would suddenly appear in his residence. Who could it be?

The two of them rushed toward the source of Spear Intent. On the way, they happened to see Zhang Xuan strolling leisurely out of the study.

"Where is he?" Before Zhang Xuan could say anything, Wang Chong asked hurriedly.

"He? Who do you mean?" Zhang Xuan had no idea what the other party was talking about.

He had been immersed in reading and practicing the Heaven's Path Spear Art, so he hadn’t paid much attention to the situation outside. What happened? Did an enemy invade?

"I felt an astonishing wave of Spear Intent here, why is there no one?"

Seeing that Zhang Xuan was clueless, Wang Chong looked around hastily. However, the surrounding was completely empty and there weren't any other people in sight.

"Could it be that you've been thinking of it so much that you began to imagine things?" Ouyang Cheng asked.

His old friend had been dreaming about Spear Intent day and night. Could it be that his longing had finally turned into delusions?

Otherwise, why was he unable to sense anything himself?

"At my level, I am just a step away from forming Spear Intent. Just a moment ago, I had clearly felt a Spear Intent surging into the skies. I am positive of that!"

Wang Chong was very confident.

He had been exploring the secrets of the spear everyday fanatically, and it would be truly embarrassing if he had mistaken Spear Intent as something else.

"Wait, wait. What is that Spear Intent you both are talking about?"

Looking at the heated discussion between the two, Zhang Xuan could not hold back his curiosity.

All the books that he had read were on the bare fundamentals. Spear Intent is an extremely advanced topic and it wasn't recorded in any of the books. As such, Zhang Xuan was ignorant.

"Spear Intent is a special state of mind which a practitioner can reach only if his understanding of the spear reaches the extreme..."

Wang Chong tried explaining before shaking his head, "You have never learned spearmanship. You won't understand it even if I explain it to you..."

Even though the other party did not go into details, Zhang Xuan got a brief grasp on the situation. "So, the reason why you are looking around here is because someone had released Spear Intent here just a moment ago?"

"I'm not very sure as well. I felt it vaguely just now and it should be in the vicinity..." Wang Chong nodded his head.

The appearance of the Spear Intent was only for the briefest moment, as though a flash of lightning. Even Wang Chong could only sense it vaguely, and as such, he was unable to ascertain the exact location. Otherwise, he would have rushed forward directly rather than to stay distressed over here.

"Right, you were here just now. You should be clear about where the person is!"

Suddenly recalling something, Wang Chong turned around to look at him with glowing eyes.

He was a distance away, so he was unable to sense the exact location. However, Apothecary Zhang had been here all along. With his help, he would surely be able to find the master!

At the very least, after they confirm the location, they would know whether the person is a member of the clan or an outsider.

As a clan specializing in spear, all members of the clan immersed themselves in the way of the spear. Even the guards were skilled in spearmanship. Even though Wang Chong could summon all of the guards here to question them one by one, if the person in question simply kept mum or was unaware of it himself, it would be much simpler to pinpoint the exact location.

"But... I don't know what Spear Intent is?" Zhang Xuan hesitated.

"That's simple. Even though I have yet to fully comprehend Spear Intent, I am able to imitate with it a 70% to 80% likeness. It should feel something like this!"

Wang Chong exerted and a sharp piercing aura gushed straight toward Zhang Xuan. It felt as though it was capable of piercing through anything.

"So this is Spear Intent?" A bizarre expression appeared on Zhang Xuan's face.

"Indeed, it should feel something like this. Do you know where it came from?" Dispelling the aura, sweat droplets streamed down Wang Chong's forehead. Still gasping for air, he inquired.

Even though he only imitated the aura for a brief moment, it took a toll on his body and weakened him.

"This..." Zhang Xuan felt slightly embarrassed. "Is the Spear Intent you spoke of... this?"

The next instant, Zhang Xuan's entire body seemed to have turned into a spear and exuded a frighteningly piercing aura, as though he would pierce through the heavens at any moment.

Contrasting the two, Wang Chong's Spear Intent was like a blade of grass before a towering ancient tree.

Incomparable.

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 145: Heaven's Path Spear Art

His previous self had expended all of his effort and attention into raising his cultivation realm, allowing him to reach the Zhenqi realm at an exceptionally young age. As such, he had never come into contact with spearmanship.

Naturally, the current him who was a true-blue earthling had never come into contact with it either.

"Have never learned before?" Wang Chong was taken aback.

If he had never learned spearmanship, what views could they exchange?

A strange expression also appeared on Ouyang Cheng's face.

Hearing that Zhang Xuan wanted to learn spearmanship, he thought that he possessed at least a certain level of foundation in the art. That was also the reason why he termed it exchanging views instead of learning from him. In that way, Zhang Xuan would be able to retain some dignity, just... To think that he had never learned spearmanship!

Awkward!

If only he knew that he hadn't learned spearmanship previously, he would have just directed him to any random spearmanship teacher. There wouldn’t be a need to trouble his old friend.

"The situation is like this. I have a student who wants to study spearmanship, so I would like to learn a few moves now and teach him..." Seeing that everyone's gaze was on him, Zhang Xuan could only reveal his motive.

"Learn a few moves now? Teach someone else?" Wang Chong staggered backward and nearly fainted from astonishment.

Are you joking?

As the saying goes, a month with the stave, a year with the saber, and a lifetime with the spear!

Countless people had embarked on spearmanship from young, only to be unable to become a true initiate for their entire life. You haven't even learned the slightest thing, yet you intend to teach your student...

Aren't you being too gutsy? Or do you think that spearmanship is easy?

In an instant, Wang Chong's face darkened. The favorable impression he had of Zhang Xuan fell apart.

He had been training in the way of the spear for his entire life and already regarded the spear as an essential part of his life. He hated it when others belittled his art. Yet, this fellow hadn't even learned a single about it but intended to go about muddling his students... That was truly an insult to the way of the spear!

If not for his respect for the other party's identity as a 1-star apothecary and for his old friend Ouyang's dignity, he would have thrown him out.

Suppressing his displeasure, he stated, "Spearmanship is hard to practice and learn. It is an impossible task to achieve anything significant in a short period of time. If you were to teach others without fully grasping the art, it is likely that you misguide them!"

His voice was steeled.

"Er..." Noticing the displeasure on the other party's face, Zhang Xuan knew that it was probably impossible for him to learn spearmanship directly from the other party. After a moment of hesitation, he asked, "How about this, does Brother Wang have any books regarding spearmanship here? If so, can you allow me to browse through them?"

"Browse through books?" Wang Chong frowned.

Spearmanship is a type of battle technique and every single movement requires the guidance and correction of an expert, as well as the refinement over a lengthy period of time. If one could learn that easily by reading books, one wouldn't have to train that hard.

However, even though he was skeptical of Zhang Xuan's purpose, upon witnessing him give up on his previous intentions, he heaved a sigh of relief and said, "Sure, I have a lot of such books here. It is also good for you to learn about how profound spearmanship is so that you won't be so reckless. I'll bring you over!"

As a spear master, nearly every single book on spearmanship that was in the kingdom was in his possession. As long as his family's secret spear technique wasn't leaked, it wasn't really a big deal for him to allow outsiders to browse through those fundamental books.

"Thank you!"

Zhang Xuan hurriedly nodded his head.

Spear arts, just like all other battle techniques, needed long hours of refinement in order for the form and the essence of the skill to shine through. However, Zhang Xuan was different. As long as he had sufficient books, he was able to create a powerful and concise spear art that was easy to learn.

"This is my study. I have almost all spear related books in Tianxuan Kingdom in here, as well as some exclusive collections!"

As the trio reached the study, Wang Chong gestured majestically with a proud expression.

He had paid quite a hefty sum to gather all of these books. These books had also helped to augment his spearmanship, bringing it to greater heights.

Looking inward, Zhang Xuan saw seven to eight entire bookshelves filled with all kinds of books elaborating on every single aspect of spearmanship.

"Ouyang, it has been long since you last came. Let's go grab a drink!"

Knowing that Zhang Xuan would take some time to read through some books, Wang Chong did not intend to wait here for him. Instead, he beckoned Ouyang Cheng toward another room.

"Alright!" Ouyang Cheng said and the two of them walked out.

"I should begin!"

Watching them leave, Zhang Xuan heaved a sigh of relief, walked up to a bookshelf and started flipping through the books.

Hualalala!

The sound of books flipping started to echo in the room and all sort of books on spearmanship formed in his mind.

Some of these books were on the very fundamentals, some of them detailed common moves and some of them were just basic introductions... All in all, there were truly all kinds of books on spearmanship that one could possibly imagine in here.

As expected of a spear master, his collection was truly abundant.

Flipping through the books continuously, he soon imprinted into his mind all the eight bookshelves of books in the study, which added up to a total of a few thousand books, within an hour.

Standing quietly on the spot, Zhang Xuan started to digest the newly compiled books in his mind.

"The correct training method..."

His mind jolted and all of the books on spearmanship melded together to form a single book before him.

He started flipping through it.

"Weapons are an extension of the arm. Only by training it to become a part of your arm can one be considered to be a true initiate. Spearmanship is the same as well..."

The spear art created by the Library of Heaven's Path through compiling so many books was incredibly profound and gave one the feeling of enlightenment. While looking through it, Zhang Xuan used his finger in place of a spear to practice its moves.

Huhuhu!

From time to time, with the augmentation of zhenqi, his finger would pierce through the air menacingly. It was as though his body had become the spear itself, and at any moment now, he would pierce through the heavens.

The spear was termed as the king of weapons. To become a true expert, one had to have the disposition of one capable of piercing through the heavens.

Without numerous storms and the accumulation of experiences over time, it was impossible to forge such a disposition!

If someone were to notice the current Zhang Xuan, they would definitely yell in exclamation.

That was because the current Zhang Xuan already possessed the disposition. Even though it couldn't be determined whether his spearmanship had reached a high level of mastery, just the aura he was exuding was sufficient to crush the confidence of countless cultivators, destroying their will to fight.

Fully immersed in the book, Zhang Xuan was completely oblivious to these changes. Instead, he continued emulating the movements with his hands.

Tzzzzz!

Burst after burst of zhenqi shot out along the trajectory of his fingers and impacted the floor, creating countless holes on it.

It was fortunate that he had kept his strength in check. Otherwise, Wang Chong's study would probably be wrecked just like Master Lu Chen's.

After an unknown period of time, Zhang Xuan finally stopped and exhaled turbid air.

"I'm already done cultivating it?"

His eyes lit up.

In just a moment's time, he had already practiced the entire sequence of the spear art compiled in the library once.

"I'll call it Heaven's Path Spear Art!"

Weng!

The book jolted and a name appeared on it... Heaven's Path Spear Art!

"It's a pity that there are too few books and too many mistakes in them. I only managed to create a single move!"

Zhang Xuan lamented.

The books were all on the basics of spearmanship. The Library of Heaven's Path compiled all of the correct theories and created a spear art from it.

"I wonder to what extent will this move augment my strength, and how much strength I would be able to execute through it!"

Even though it was just a single move, he knew that it was impossible for it to be anything simple, especially after experiencing the Heaven's Path Divine Art and the Heaven's Path Golden Body.

His fighting prowess would definitely be boosted significantly if he were to execute it.

"I'll impart this to Zheng Yang when I return!"

The reason why he was here specially to learn spear art was so that he could impart it to Zheng Yang. Even though it was just a single move, at the very least, the journey he made here wasn't in vain.

It could be imagined that if Zheng Yang were to fully grasp the skill, his spearmanship would definitely improve by leaps and bounds. By then, defeating that Mo Xiao wouldn't pose any problem.

All that came from the Heaven's Path had to be exceptional. There was no doubt about this.

"Time to go!"

After reading all the books and obtaining what he wanted, Zhang Xuan did not dawdle in the study excessively and walked out with big strides.

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 144: Spear Expert

If it were any other 1-star apothecaries, even if they were friends, it was impossible for him to be so generous. However, Zhang Xuan was simply too incredible. He was able to rival all the other apothecaries with his words and regardless of whether it was pill forging, herbs... He was perfect in nearly every single aspect, as though there was no way whatsoever to defeat him in the Pill Debate, leaving everyone speechless in his wake.

Relying on just this ability, he would surely be able to rise to incredible heights if granted sufficient time. This gesture of goodwill was, in a way, an investment for the future.

After keeping the Breath Forging Pills, Zhang Xuan suddenly recalled something and inquired, "Guild Leader Ouyang, do you know anywhere that sells secret manuals on spearmanship?"

Wang Ying had the Body Nourishing Medicinal Solution whereas Liu Yang had the Meridian Rejuvenation Pill. The Unravel Yin Pill and the Colossus Rhinoceros Blood had not arrived, but when Zhao Ya and Yuan Tao consume it and awaken their constitution, their cultivation realm would definitely soar significantly.

Of his five students, he only lacked a solution for Zheng Yang.

Zheng Yang specialized in the way of the spear, and Lu Xun had looked for someone who was even more proficient than him to be his opponent. If he doesn't search for some powerful moves to impart to him, he could possibly become the weakest link.

He had looked through the books in the teacher's Compendium Pavilion and there were some books on battle techniques, but very few relating to spears. That was also the reason why Wang Chao laoshi was so popular. Countless spear practitioners come applying to the academy in admiration of his name.

Since Wang Chao was able to 'give' Mo Xiao to Lu Xun, the two must share an exceptional relationship. In that case, it wasn't a viable option for him to visit him to ask him about the way of the spear. At the same time, he did not know anything about the spear. Thus, he could only ask around to see if there were any secret manuals on spearmanship sold in the capital.

"Secret manuals on spearmanship? You wish to learn the way of the spear?" Guild Leader looked at Zhang Xuan in astonishment.

Apothecaries are highly esteemed in society. Instead of learning pill forging, why are you learning the way of the spear instead?

"Un!" Zhang Xuan nodded his head.

"Spearmanship is relatively uncommon compared to swordsmanship and there are significantly fewer people who learn it. There are even fewer who manage to become masters of the art. I just happen to be acquainted with one. His family heritage is of the spear and his skills are incredibly powerful and profound. He is famous for his spearmanship, even when considering the entire capital!"

Ouyang Cheng stroked his beard and chuckled.

"Oh? Can you bring me to learn from him?" Zhang Xuan's eyes lit up.

"This person is often holed up inside his house, he rarely meets with outsiders and doesn't easily impart his spearmanship to others. However, I am a good friend of his, so perhaps he might sell me this favor!"

Ouyang Cheng said.

"Then I'll be troubling Guild Leader Ouyang for this." Knowing that the other party was trying to strike up connections, Zhang Xuan nodded his head and secretly decided to guide him in his pill forging whenever he gets the chance to.

"Let's go, I'll bring you to meet with this old friend of mine."

Seeing that the other person understood his intent, Ouyang Cheng nodded his head in satisfaction.

After leaving the Apothecary Guild, the two of them walked for nearly an hour before arriving at a residence.

As Ouyang Cheng was good buddies with the master of the residence, the guards did not obstruct his path and they were able to enter the residence smoothly.

"Guild Leader Ouyang, please wait a moment. My old master is still training, he will be out in a moment!"

The butler brought them to a small gazebo and said.

"Un, it'll do for him to look for me after he finishes his training!" Guild Leader Ouyang knew of the other party's habits and gestured with his hand to show that he wasn't bothered by it. Then, he beckoned to Zhang Xuan, "Apothecary Zhang, come and sit!"

"Alright!" Zhang Xuan sat down and surveyed the surroundings.

The courtyard was large and the renovations were simple but elegant, creating a tranquil atmosphere. There were no servants or attendants in sight in the entire courtyard. It seemed like the owner of the residence wasn't an extravagant person.

"My friend is called Wang Chong. We were acquainted over twenty years ago and he had immersed himself in the way of the spear for his entire life. In terms of spearmanship, he is definitely one of the top figures in the entire Tianxuan Kingdom. Emperor Shen Zhui had even once complimented his as spearmanship as peerless."

Sipping on his tea, Ouyang Cheng introduced the owner of the residence.

"Incredible!" Zhang Xuan had always held respect toward those who were able to reach the pinnacle of their occupation.

Regardless of the occupation, to be able to emerge on top of thousands and thousands of people showed their determination and talent.

"Old Ouyang, are you talking bad about me behind my back again?"

Halfway through their conversation, a bright voice sounded. Then, an elderly walked over with widened strides.

Even though he looked fifty or so, his body nevertheless appeared to be brimming with strength, as though he had a boundless supply of energy. He was dressed in a training robe and grabbed a spear in one hand. Just like the butler said, he was probably in the midst of his training and came over without even changing his clothes.

"Talking bad behind your bad? I'm not that bored so as to do so!" Ouyang Cheng stood up smiling.

Judging from their tones, Zhang Xuan could tell that they were close friends.

"That's more like it. How do you have the time to look for me today?" Wang Chong stepped into the gazebo and caught sight of Zhang Xuan. Perplexed, he asked, "Is this your junior?"

"Cough cough!" Ouyang Cheng nearly spat his tea out. An awkward expression appeared on his face.

The heck he is my junior!

I want to fawn over him so that he can guide me with my pill forging. You saying that he is my junior nearly sent all of my efforts down the drain...

Secretly sneaking Zhang Xuan a glance and confirming that he wasn't angry, he heaved a sigh of relief. Afraid that his old friend would say anything worse, he hurriedly introduced, "Let me introduce you to him. This is the newest 1-star apothecary of our guild, Zhang Xuan!"

"1-star apothecary?"

Wang Chong was surprised for a moment before feeling shocked.

As an old friend of Ouyang Cheng, he knew very well how difficult the apothecary examination was. Seeing how young the other party was, he initially thought that Zhang Xuan was Ouyang Cheng's junior. The thought that he was an official apothecary didn't even occur to him.

It was something inconceivable to him.

Even the butler by the side was astonished.

"Not just so, Apothecary Zhang got promoted through Pill Debate. Singlehandedly, he left ten apothecaries speechless. In the field of pill forging, there isn't a single person in the entire capital who is more knowledgeable than him!"

Ouyang Cheng continued.

"Pill Debate?" Wang Chong was flabbergasted.

Even though he wasn't an apothecary, he had heard of such an examination method from Guild Leader Ouyang's himself. For a fellow who wasn't even twenty years of age to become an apothecary through Pill Debate, even though the fact was lying right before him, he found it difficult to accept noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

"Guild Leader Ouyang is being too generous, I just happen to possess a little bit of knowledge. In terms of pill forging, I am still a rookie..."

Zhang Xuan hurriedly said.

He was speaking of the truth. The reason why he was able to succeed in the Pill Debate was because of the Library of Heaven's Path. If he were to really dabble in pill forging, it was likely that he would be unable to forge even the easiest pills.

The three men chatted for awhile longer after that. Zhang Xuan knew that Ouyang Cheng was complimenting him before Wang Chong intentionally to leave a good impression of him on Wang Chong. This way, it would be more likely for the Wang Chong to impart him the way of the spear.

Indeed, after the banter, Ouyang Cheng smiled, "Actually, I have something I need to trouble you with!"

"Oh?" Wang Chong's looked at Ouyang Cheng.

"It's like that. Apothecary Zhang highly appreciates the way of the spear. If Brother Wang has the time, you two can exchange views!"

Ouyang Cheng said.

"Oh? So Apothecary Zhang is a spear expert as well? That's great..."

Hearing those words, Wang Chong's eyes lit up in excitement.

He was a spear fanatic and loved pitting himself against other spear experts. For Zhang Xuan to have become an official apothecary at such a young age, he probably possessed superior talent. How could he not be excited to spar with him?

"I... Cough cough, I have never learned spearmanship before..."

Upon seeing that the other party was determined to duel with him, an awkward look appeared on Zhang Xuan's face.

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 143: Fetching Money

"Did you hear? When Lord Ling sought the old master to treat his wife, he took out a million gold coins in one go, he sure is generous!"

At this moment, suppressed mutterings could be heard in the courtyard.

It appeared to be the guards of the mansion. After seeing the old master leave the mansion, they started to gossip among themselves.

"A million? Is that for real?" The other guard was clearly skeptical.

"Of course it's real, I saw it myself. It is definitely real! A million gold coins might be an astronomical sum to us, but it means nothing to a master teacher like the old master. I heard Brother Sun say that the old master only accepted it to ease the other party's mind. He didn't want him to feel like he owed him a favor." The first guard said.

"Now that you mention it, I recall that Lord Ling had also kneeled here for a night. Initially, the old master was unwilling to bother with him, but after he stuffed a sum to Brother Sun, Brother Sun, out of benevolence, helped to speak up for him, and only then did he manage to enter..." The second guard replied.

The words of the two were hushed, but they were separated by only a small gate from the street. Du Yuan's cultivation realm was low, so he could be unable to hear their conversation clearly, but those words echoed in Du Miaoxuan's ears distinctly.

"Yuan-er, get up. Return to the clan now and bring all my savings here..."

Du Miaoxuan's eyes lit up.

He was streetwise and full of experience, but that was limited to sparring, battles and logical debates. In terms of bribery and gifting, he was could not compare to a businessman. Previously, he hadn't thought of offering the other party money, but hearing those words, he was immediately enlightened.

That's right! Even though master teachers don’t accept money because of their identity, butlers are willing to accept it!

The mansion, the servants, food, and drink; which of it didn't require money?

Even a physician had to be paid after consulting him. It would be weird if the other party was welcoming since he had come empty-handed.

"Alright!"

Du Yuan did not understand what was going on, but hearing father's words, he stood up immediately.

"I've heard that Brother Sun was reprimanded by the old master because of the matter. It seems that Lord Ling had offended the old master by doubting his identity previously. A master teacher's prestige must not be sullied. To plead with him using just a million gold coins, how would he be able to uphold his reputation in the future? The old master said that that was a one time off matter, and it mustn't happen again. Truthfully speaking, a million gold coins is truly like the heavens to us. Yet, to the old master, it wasn't even worth a plea!"

The first guard spoke.

"Indeed! When I passed by the front courtyard, I heard some people talking about it. I thought that they were lying..." The second one continued.

Outside.

"Wait a moment!" Before Du Yuan could leave, his father's voice echoed in his ear once more. "Dig out those precious pills that I bought recently and sell them all. Also, bring over those savage beast skins that I had accumulated over the years together with the money..."

"Father..." Du Yuan was taken aback.

What was going on with father?

Bringing the money, selling his possessions...

"Of course it's real! I have asked Brother Sun on the matter personally. He said that when Lord Ling passed the million gold coins over, the old master didn't even take a glance at it. The reason why he treated her was because Lord Ling's wife was on the verge of death and saving someone brings one good karma. If the one who came over to plead with him was healthy, lively, and able to execute battle techniques, he definitely would ignore him..."

The voice of the first guard sounded.

"Ah?" Du Miaoxuan began to shake. Clenching his jaws, he continued to command Du Yuan, "Sell that sword of mine as well. Also... Wasn't the Third Elder interested in taking over my businesses? Talk to him. As long as he is willing to pay, all of those businesses shall be his!"

"Father..."

Those were already father's greatest chips within the clan. If he were to sell them all, what will happen in the future?

Du Yuan was stupefied.

"Hurry up!" Du Miaoxuan urged him.

Observing the stern expression on his father's face, Du Yuan dared not to retort. He turned around to leave at once.

"The fact that he was able to execute a battle technique showed that his body is alright. He definitely has a screw loose to doubt a master teacher!" The second guard chastised. "Even though the old master didn’t care not for wealth, that person didn't even bring a single gold coin with him. Without offering anything, he wanted the old master to exert effort to offer him pointers, wasn't he daydreaming?"

Du Miaoxuan gritted his teeth. "Also, bring you and your mother's savings over as well..."

"..."

Du Yuan staggered in his footsteps, nearly bursting into tears.

From the looks of it, his father's is already completely deranged.

……………………………………

The conversation between the two guards was exactly what Zhang Xuan delegated Sun Qiang.

Without 'reminding' the other party, how long would it take for them to send the money over?

In any case, those were words of the guards and it had nothing to do with him at all. They did not dare to accuse a master teacher of being a money-grubber either.

"As expected of the old master. Even after doing someone in, he wants him to pay up..." Back when Sun Qiang received the task from the old master, he also was speechless.

From the very start, the other party would have given substantial rewards to the old master to thank him for offering him his guidance. However, it was uncertain how much the sum would be. After hearing the conversation between the two guards, who would dare to be stingy?

To be able to think of a way to earn more money without sullying his prestige; to scam others without dirtying his hands... Too scheming!

Initially, just like other people, he thought that the old master did not care for money. From the looks of it... A master teacher is still human and had their own expenses to upkeep.

……………………………………

Leaving the residence and darting into a remote alley, Zhang Xuan removed his disguise completely.

It was exhausting to have kept the disguise on for the entire day.

"The guild should be done preparing the Meridian Rejuvenation Pill and the Body Nourishment Medicinal Solution. I should first get them for Wang Ying and Liu Yang!"

His purpose for disguising himself as a master teacher to earn money was for this. For the time being, he is unable to obtain the Unravel Yin Pill and the Colossal Rhinoceros Blood, but these other two items were easy to obtain.

Stepping into the Apothecary Guild, the two items were indeed ready. As for the remaining two, Guild Leader Ouyang had already sent an application and the headquarters would send it over from another branch.

Apothecary Guilds can be found in all large kingdoms. There were pills and treasures that Tianxuan Kingdom didn't possess, but that didn't mean that the other kingdoms didn't have them. As long as they send a request to the headquarters, the goods would be transported from the closest kingdom with stocks. This way, the delivery process was sped up. Otherwise, given how far the headquarter is from here, ten days are too short for them to bring it here!

Paying a million as a deposit, he obtained the two items successfully.

"Right, Guild Leader Ouyang, do you have Breath Forging Pills? Can you get me some?"

After housing the two objects in his storage ring, Zhang Xuan asked.

Breath Forging Pill is something extremely useful for Fighter 1-dan Juxi realm initiates. If Wang Ying and the others were to consume it, their training speed should be boosted significantly.

"I forged quite a bit of them previously and I still have a few remaining. I can give them to you right away!" Guild Leader Ouyang smiled and passed two jade bottles over.

Upon receiving the jade bottle, he looked inside and saw that there were dozens of pills in each bottle. Zhang Xuan understood that the other party was expressing his goodwill and it wasn't pleasant to reject him. As such, he nodded his head and accepted it.

Even though the quality of the Breath Forging Pill wasn't exceptionally high, it was nevertheless a grade-1 pill. Every single pill costs tens of thousand, yet Guild Leader Ouyang shared dozens of them in a single go generously.

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 142: Kneeling Outside

"What?"

Hearing those words, Sun Qiang and the others present in the room froze.

Especially Du Yuan, his complexion turned awful immediately.

Even if there were problems with his father's punching routine, how could an upright master teacher humiliate someone so casually and call him a beast?

That was a personal attack!

"Yang shi, even if my father has offended you, there shouldn't be a need for you to insult him in such a manner..."

Gritting his teeth in anger, Du Yuan protested.

"Insult?" Zhang Xuan shook his head. "Ask your father whether I am insulting him or not."

"Father..."

Du Yuan turned around to look at Du Miaoxuan. With a single glance, he was astonished. His father’s body was trembling uncontrollably, and the calm that he possessed a moment ago had disappeared without a trace.

"I beg for Yang shi to save me..."

Putong!

Just as doubts sped through his mind, he saw his father exclaim and kneel to the floor.

"Ah?"

Du Yuan was taken aback.

A confused expression had also appeared on Sun Qiang's face.

Is Du Miaoxuan mentally impaired? Or is he a masochist?

His tone was so forceful a moment ago, but when he failed to perform as an expert, even getting insulted by the old master at that, he immediately kneeled down?

"Xiao Qiang, send our guests off!"

Ignoring Du Miaoxuan was kneeling on the floor, Zhang Xuan waved them away.

What a joke, what do you take me for? You doubted my identity and even tried to test me, and now you expect me to save you?

"Yes!" Sun Qiang drew closer. "Please leave!"

"Please forgive me for being blind, I beg of you to give me a second chance..."

Upon hearing that Zhang Xuan was evicting them, Du Miaoxuan was horror-struck. He kowtowed immediately while feeling intense regret over his actions.

If only he had listened to his son, such a situation wouldn't have occurred.

Doubting the identity of a master teacher was equivalent to challenging his authority and prestige, it was no wonder that he was displeased.

Witnessing an influential elder of the Du Clan kowtowing over and again, Sun Qiang was at a loss. He hurriedly shot a gaze at the old master.

"Why? Does my words not matter anymore?"

Zhang Xuan frowned. Even though there was no anger in his voice, his voice was authoritative.

"Yes..."

Sun Qiang shuddered and gestured the other guards in hurriedly, "Men, send Elder Du out."

Hearing the commands, a few guard quickly walked over.

"Elder Du, please!"

The few guards stepped forward.

"Father..."

Du Yuan was still unable to comprehend the situation. Why did his father not feel anger upon being insulted as a beast by Yang shi, and instead, kneeled down and begged to be saved?

"I was too rash and I admit my fault. I will wait at the gates to beg for Yang shi's forgiveness."

Du Miaoxuan kowtowed once more and walked out of his own accord. Du Yuan hurriedly followed behind him.

The moment he passed the gates, he dropped to his knees in the middle of the street facing the mansion, motionless.

"Father..." Du Yuan was about to go insane.

No matter what, his father used to be a strong contender for the position of the clan head. Even if he is now an ordinary elder, his continues to hold a distinguished position as compared to the other elders. For him to kneel in the middle of the street... Why?

Was it because the other party called him a... beast?

Could it be that... Father is truly a masochist?

"You kneel down as well!"

Before he could fully understand the situation, he heard Du Miaoxuan's cold voice sounding from beside him.

"Father..." Du Yuan gritted his teeth. "I don't understand..."

"That Yang shi is a true master teacher. I had spoken inappropriately earlier and offended him. Thus... I have to apologize to him! A master teacher is someone that cannot be insulted, even in the slightest."

"Kneel down! We can only hope that he would forgive us because... he is a true master teacher. Only he is capable of curing my illness."

"He can cure you?"

Du Yuan was confused.

He didn't recall Yang shi mention anything related before!

All he did was to insult him 'You are a beast'. Could that be the reason why father became so certain?

The more he pondered, the more confused he got.

...

"Old master, Elder Du and his son are kneeling before the gates!"

Hearing the subordinate’s report, Sun Qiang looked at the old master with a strange expression.

Is the old master capable of casting magic?

Initially, Du Miaoxuan wasn't respectful at all and his tone wasn't polite either. Yet, after an insult, the other party was frightened out of his wits and kneeled down immediately. In fact, he even refused to be chased out...

If he hadn’t seen it for himself, he would have thought that it was nonsense.

But the facts were laid clearly before him, he has no choice but to believe it!

"Is your family doing well? Touch your wife... You are a beast... Looks like master teachers like to speak in such a manner..."

Sun Qiang concluded based on his experience with the old master.

Putting aside this Du Miaoxuan, Ling Tianyu seemed to be the same as well. Back then, when he broke the jade lion, the billionaire was filled with rage. In the end, the old master simply asked 'is your family doing well?' before going ahead to request to touch the other party's wife...

Looks like master teachers don't like to go about doing things the normal way. Instead, they preferred to beat around the bush and exaggerate matters.

Yet, this method seemed to be extremely useful.

"Looks like these merchants and elders have to be dealt with the stick instead of the carrot. Un, maybe I should give it a try in the future?"

Sun Qiang's eyes lit up.

In his view, the reason why Du Miaoxuan switched his attitude so quickly was because the old master got angry. Seems that in future, when he meets such people, he shouldn't act subserviently. Instead, he should speak imposingly and authoritatively.

Only through this way can he instill respect in the other party.

After all, wasn't Elder Du frightened to the point of kneeling down?

Sun Qiang's thoughts became increasingly fertile.

"Next time, when the old master isn't around, I should give it a try... If it really works, the old master's impression of me might improve..." Sun Qiang thought excitedly.

"Let them kneel!"

Not aware of what his butler had come up with in the blink of an eye, Zhang Xuan casually gestured.

"Old master, what do we do now?" Sun Qiang asked.

Zhang Xuan frowned.

That was also what he was thinking.

He couldn't just rely on the money others present to him in gratitude!

Taking Ling Tianyu as an example, even though he gave a million in a single go, Zhang Xuan is still a long way off from reaching twenty million. But if he were to open his mouth to request for money, it would be unbefitting of his identity as a master teacher. Others would simply label him as a fraud.

If he refused money and simply waited for others to thank him, how much could he earn?

What if the other party thought that he, as a master teacher, cared not for material wealth but instead valued relationships heavily, wouldn't he cry himself to death?

After contemplating for some time, Zhang Xuan spoke, "I will be going out for a moment. There's no need for you to follow me. Instead, you need to do something for me."

At which, Zhang Xuan explained his plan in detail to him.

"This... This..."

Hearing his words, the butler widened his eyes in shock.

This works too?

"Go!" Zhang Xuan explained no further and urged him along.

"Yes!"

After the previous few incidents, he understood that the old master has his reasons for doing things. Thus, he didn't ask excessively and turned around to leave. A short while later, he returned again.

Clearly, he had arranged everything that Zhang Xuan delegated him.

"If anyone comes knocking, have them wait at the door." After instructing so, Zhang Xuan walked out of the mansion.

At the gates, he didn't even spare a glance at the kneeling Du Miaoxuan before walking away.

"Father..."

Seeing that Yang shi had no intentions of bothering himself with them, Du Yuan panicked and called his father.

Since the other party had already left, what use was it for him to be kneeling here?

"I am not doing this just to show Yang shi. This is also to display my determination on this matter and my reflection on my mistakes. If I were to leave now, I would probably be left stuck with my problem for life." Knowing what his son was thinking of, Du Miaoxuan explained noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

"I got it..."

Du Yuan lowered his head in depression.

For an elder of the Du Clan, an ex-contender for the clan head position to be kneeling in the middle of a street... What is this...

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 141: You're a Beast

Finally overcoming Sun Qiang's attempts to struggle, Zhang Xuan managed to knock him unconscious.

Upon contact with the unconscious Sun Qiang, a book immediately appeared in Zhang Xuan's mind.

Only then did Zhang Xuan understand how it worked.

For those who were conscious, executing a movement, even if it wasn't a battle technique, would cause the compilation of a book on them. As time went by, the contents detailed inside would also change automatically. After all, humans were beings with learning capabilities and as such, their flaws would constantly change.

On the other hand, those who are unconscious are treated as objects. A book would be compiled upon coming into contact with them.

The two scenarios do not conflict and the difference was clear and simple. It was a matter of whether the person in question was conscious or not.

Knowing that the library had such an ability, Zhang Xuan heaved a sigh of relief.

If he were to meet with another case like Ling Tianyu's wife, he just had to touch them. He wouldn't panic as he did this round.

"Old master, an elder from Du Clan, Du Miaoxuan, requests an audience!"

After waking up, Sun Qiang examined his body and after confirming that he hadn't been assaulted, heaved a sigh of relief. He took his leave hurriedly, but after a moment, came back to report.

"An elder from Du Clan? Have him come in!"

Zhang Xuan waved his hands and returned to his seat.

Looks like the news regarding Ling Tianyu had spread rather quickly. Someone is already here to pay a visit.

...

"You say that you witnessed it yourself? Sun Qiang himself claimed that a master teacher resides in here?"

Outside, Du Miaoxuan turned to look at his son doubtfully.

Due to his illness, his cultivation fell tremendously. As such, when he heard that a master teacher had come to visit, he lost his decorum immediately. But on his way here, he gradually calmed down and noticed suspicious points.

Why would a master teacher suddenly appear here without any news? Furthermore, how could he be staying in such a small mansion?

Also, a true master teacher has countless disciples and followers. There was no need for a master teacher to hire the boss of a realtor store as his butler.

There were too many illogical parts to the story.

"Sun Qiang said it himself. Also, I witnessed the happenings with Ling Tianyu's wife personally!" Du Yuan explained.

"Un!" Du Miaoxuan nodded his head.

Regardless of whether the other party was a true master teacher or not, this was a chance. If he turned out to be a fraud, he could choose to leave at any moment.

Jiyaaaa!

The doors to the courtyard opened and Sun Qiang emerged. "The old master happens to be free, please enter!"

Du Miaoxuan and Du Yuan exchanged a glance before entering the mansion.

The mansion was decorated in the manner similar to how a philistine merchant would and there was nothing outstanding about it to him. The further Du Miaoxuan proceeded, the more he thought that the other party could be a fraud.

Soon, they arrived at the main hall.

"Old master, this is Elder Du Miaoxuan and his son, Du Yuan!" Sun Qiang said.

"Un!" Zhang Xuan turned around and invited, "Please be seated!"

"Yes!" Du Miaoxuan and his son sat on the guests' seats. At the same time, they secretly assessed the 'master teacher' before them.

He looked to be in his forties, but his skin was smooth, so it was likely for him to be younger than he appeared to be.

Gedeng, Du Miaoxuan's heart skipped a beat.

The man had concealed his appearance.

When he was younger, he once left to accumulate worldly experience and had opened his eyes to many different things. He had once seen such a face-changing technique.

If he were a real master teacher, why would he change his appearance?

Clearly, he was a fake!

Perhaps, he might be working together with Ling Tianyu, and this inexperienced son of his took it for real!

As such, his heart chilled and his face darkened.

Noticing his expression, Zhang Xuan felt a little dismal.

Didn't this fellow come over after hearing how he helped Ling Tianyu?

Why was he displaying such an attitude to a master teacher?

He remained silent, and Du Miaoxuan didn't speak either. As such, the air in the main hall stilled and the atmosphere grew awkward.

"It's like that, my father had once fallen severely ill and it caused a great fall in his cultivation. After hearing that Yang shi is here, we came over hoping that Yang shi could take a look to see if there's possible a remedy for his problem..."

Seeing that his father remained silent, Du Yuan hurriedly spoke up, full of anxiety.

Wasn't father very excited on the way here? Why isn't he speaking now that he had arrived? It would be terrible if we offend Yang shi because of this.

"Am I a physician?"

Zhang Xuan lifted his eyebrows in displeasure.

Since he was feigning as a master teacher, he had to carry the prestige of one. Given how the other party clearly doubted his identity, if he were to anxiously go straight into treating the other party, wouldn't that be unbefitting of his status?

"No... That's not it!"

Du Yuan was taken aback. He tugged on his father's sleeves immediately, "Father..."

"Oh! My son didn't put his words properly, please forgive him!"

Upon confirming that the fellow before him was a fraud, Du Miaoxuan no longer maintained the respectful attitude he held just before. Even so, he maintained basic courtesy, "I met with some problems on my cultivation and upon hearing of Yang shi's arrival, I could not help but make a visit hoping to learn from you. I hope that Yang shi would be so generous as to guide me along!"

"Problems with your cultivation?"

Taking in the other party's words, Zhang Xuan was affirmative that the other party was suspicious of his identity. He frowned in puzzlement.

Considering both his disposition and background, there shouldn't have been any problems at all. Why would the other party doubt him?

It was no wonder that he wasn't able to realize his mistakes. He was a mere librarian and a true-blue shut-in in his previous life. The reason why he was able to convince Ling Tianyu was because the man did not possess much experience in the pugilistic world, and as such, he was blind to the flaws in his disguise. However, his camouflage was indeed insufficient to fool experienced and streetwise veterans such as Du Miaoxuan.

"Father..."

Detecting the lack of respect in his father's voice, Du Yuan started to panic.

Father had always been a calm and prudent person, why is he acting so recklessly today?

The other party was a master teacher! Even Ling Tianyu had to kneel outside for an entire night before he could pay him a visit. It was already a blessing that we were allowed to enter immediately, so we should make full use of the opportunity. But why...

"Oh? What do you want to learn?"

Even though he was curious why the other party doubted his identity, Zhang Xuan wasn't worried in the least. Instead, he looked at him with interest.

Even though he was pretending to be a master teacher, he wasn't truly deceiving his customers. With the Library of Heaven's Path, even a true master teacher would be unable to match his abilities in identifying one's problems. So... You doubt me?

I will make you not dare to doubt me.

"I have just learned a new battle technique and found it hard to grasp. I hope that Yang shi can correct me!"

Immediately after finishing his sentence, Du Miaoxuan stood up.

From what he sees, the person before him is definitely a fraud. Since you want to play off as a master teacher, I will execute a punching routine before you. When you find yourself stumped, I will tear off your disguise!

Wuuu!

Before Zhang Xuan could reply, Du Miaoxuan clenched his fists and started moving around the room.

As expected of an ex-genius, his fists were forceful and it brought an intense pressure to the audiences. His techniques and moves were also profound.

Du Miaoxuan was a Pixue realm expert. Due to the severe illness, he plunged to Dingli realm. Even so, his strength didn't fall much in comparison. With his current strength, he would be able to match with even Pixue realm intermediate stage experts!

It was no wonder that he was able to remain as an elder in Du Clan despite being in just Dingli realm. He had true strength indeed.

Hu!

After finishing his punching routine, he retracted his fists.

"Please offer me your guidance!" Du Miaoxuan clasped his fists as he stared at Zhang Xuan with piercing eyes. He wanted to hear what would that fraud had to say.

"You want me to offer you my guidance?"

Aware of his thoughts, Zhang Xuan looked at him impassively.

"Yes!" Du Miaoxuan replied calmly.

"Your Fleeting Fist is indeed incredible, you should have reached 3-dan for it already. However... You seem to be unable to control your strength effectively. If I'm not wrong..."

At this point, Zhang Xuan opened his eyes and a playful smile crept onto his lips.

"You are a beast!"