The Legend of Futian - Chapter 83: They Have Arrived

Upon hearing these words, Hua Jieyu and Ye Futian both looked at Nandou Wenyin in surprise.

Masteress wants to betroth Hua Jieyu to me. Ye Futian's heart warmed at the thought of this. Today was only his second encounter with Nandou Wenyin, but he also understood that the main reasons behind her decision were because of Hua Fengliu as well as Hua Jieyu's feelings for himself. Ye Futian's gifts did not play an important role in Nandou Wenyin's decision making.

Nandou Wenshan was also shocked but recovered quickly because he understood that his sister had been living with the regrets of her past and did not wish for her daughter to go down the same path. Now that Ye Futian revealed that he was highly capable and even had Minister Zuo on his side, the Nandou clan would definitely take Ye Futian into consideration for Hua Jieyu. Nandou Wenyin wanted to take this opportunity to get their betrothal settled in case anything changed in the future. When she extended her invitation to Ye Futian the day before, she had already made up her mind.

Nandou Tai and the rest stared at Nandou Wenyin collectively. Someone spoke, "Wenyin, don't you think you're making a rash decision?"

"It's true that he presented his capabilities at Donghai Academy, but what of it? It could simply mean that the people of the School of the Emperor Star are too weak. There are tons of highly gifted young men within the Nandou clan. Why should we allow Hue Jieyu to be betrothed to him?" asked another person.

Everyone took their turn in making comments on the subject. Many people had a thing or two to say in disapproval of betrothing the most outstanding young woman of the Nandou clan to the disciple of the Guqin Devil.

"Wenyin, you heard the people. Jieyu is still young, there is no rush to make such a decision," said Nandou Tai.

"I'm simply saying they should be engaged. I wasn't suggesting that they should be married right away," replied Nandou Wenyin. She stood firm on her decision. To be honest, it would not be strange for a girl of Hua Jieyu's age to be married anyway.

"This is still too hasty," said Nandou Tai, shaking his head.

"Jieyu's father is Futian's master, so obviously he would not object. I am Jieyu's mother and I also support this. Jieyu and Futian are dedicated to each other and are deeply in love. So, why is this a hasty decision?" questioned Nandou Wenyin. She did not sound too happy.

Nandou Tai's expression darkened. He stared at Nandou Wenyin and said, "So, what you're saying is, Hua Jieyu's marriage has nothing to do with the Nandou clan?"

Nandou Wenyin retorted, "And what Uncle is insinuating is that Jieyu's marriage should be decided by the Nandou clan and has nothing to do with me, her own mother? In the past, because my parents have already passed, Uncle made decisions for me. Now, even though I'm still well and alive, Uncle wants to make decisions for my daughter?"

Nandou Wenyin knew a thing or two about the clan's plan on setting her up in a marriage of convenience all those years ago. She was not going to allow them to do the same to her daughter.

"Wenyin, you're out of line," an elder reprimanded. "Is this the attitude you use when speaking to the clan leader?"

"Miss Wenyin, is it simply because he is the disciple of the Guqin Devil?" asked Nandou Ku. "Are you trying to have your daughter fulfill the dreams you were unable to?"

Ye Futian looked at Nandou Ku. This was the man who stalked Hua Jieyu to the Guqin Gardens. He had also told Ye Futian that he could not be compared to the Art Saint's disciple, Zhou Mu.

"Watch your mouth! This is not a place for you to speak," Nandou Wenyin said to Nandou Ku.

"I understand that Miss Wenyin is of nobility. You carry the blood of your ancestors. You have inherited the royal bloodline. The same can be said for Miss Jieyu. It is because of this that her marriage cannot be determined so hastily. Even though the Guqin Devil's disciple is incredibly gifted, it doesn't mean anything. There are tons of genius cultivators out there. There are many just in the Nandou clan, but it seems that Miss Wenyin never took that into consideration," said Nandou Ku.

Realization flashed through Ye Futian's eyes. From Nandou Ku's words, Ye Futian predicted that Nandou Wenyin was the direct descendant of the person who established the Nandou Nation. To say that they have inherited the royal bloodline meant that Nandou Wenyin and Hua Jieyu were actually the princesses of the Nandou clan.

"What you said is correct. The battle at Donghai Academy doesn't mean anything. I am willing to test his true abilities." At this moment, a member of the Nandou clan stepped forward. The young man looked at Ye Futian. "How does a battle sound?"

Ye Futian glanced at the young man and chose to ignore him.

"What do you mean by this?" the young man glared at Ye Futian.

"Step down," ordered Nandou Tai. The young man retreated into the group. Nandou Tai spoke again, "Wenyin, it is exactly because your parents left you at an early age that I was forced to take over as the clan leader. I have the responsibility to take care of you guys. I know that you hold a grudge against me for what happened in the past, but we can't change what has already happened. I am willing to let go of the past and might even think about allowing you to reunite with Hua Fengliu in a couple of years, but regarding Jieyu's marriage, will you allow me to make the decision?"

"You're only now considering Hua Fengliu?" asked Nandou Wenyin. Her demeanor was cold. Hua Jieyu was incredibly gifted and carried the hopes and dreams of the entire Nandou clan. Plus, Ye Futian who was the Guqin Devil's disciple, also possessed incredible gifts. He also had Minister Zuo to back him up. Nandou Tai had to know that some things could not be changed. Some things are inevitable. The only way future events could be altered is if Nandou Tai broke off relations with Hua Jieyu and at the same time, had Ye Futian killed. However, it was obvious that Nandou Tai could not do either of these things.

"I will make the decisions regarding Hua Jieyu's marriage." Nandou Wenyin was not going to give up. She was not going to let the clan sacrifice her daughter as they had done to her.

"How presumptuous!" yelled Nandou Tai. More and more people of the Nandou clan gathered behind their leader. At this moment, Ye Futian realized how lonely Hua Jieyu and her family were among the huge Nandou clan. Their family used to be the most distinguished bloodline but was now the most isolated.

"Masteress, maybe we should give the clan leader a little more time to think about this matter. Jieyu and I aren't in a rush," Ye Futian spoke. In this situation, it was not a good idea for Nandou Wenyin to go against the entire clan. What Ye Futian needed was time.

Nandou Wenyin averted her attention to Ye Futian. He bowed to her and said, "Masteress, Jieyu, I'm going to leave now. I'll come visit again when I get the chance." He then turned to Nandou Tai and the rest of the group. "Excuse me."

Ye Futian began to make his way out. The clan made way for him. One of the younger clan members mocked Ye Futian. "He's probably just afraid to lose. He won't live up to his reputation."

"I heard that he does what he wants at the academy, but looking at him now, he doesn't look all that mighty," someone else chimed in.

Ye Futian smiled but chose to ignore them. Fighting someone from the Nandou clan would only add fuel to the fire.

After Ye Futian left, Nandou Wenyin and Nandou Tai were still in a stand-off.

"Wenyin, I think you should take some time to cool your head," said Nandou Tai.

"There's no need. This is my final decision, I'm not going to have a change of heart," she replied calmly.

"Talk some sense into your younger sister," Nandou Tai said to Nandou Wenshan. Then, he turned to leave.

The crowd dispersed. As Ye Futian made his way to the exit of the Nandou Palace, people either challenged him to battle or insulted him. Everyone had an opinion about Ye Futian. He ignored all of them and left with Yi Xiang.

After Nandou Tai led the crowd away, Nandou Wenyin frowned and said quietly, "In the past, he tried to use me to get close to Minister Hua, but now even though Ye Futian is in Minister Zuo's good graces, he won't let Hua Jieyu marry him. Is it purely because he is Hua Fengliu's disciple?"

Nandou Wenshan also frowned. There did seem to be some contradicting points in Nandou Tai's decision.

"Mother, there is something that I forgot to tell you," said Hua Jieyu. "The other day, the clan leader invited Minister Zuo over to tell me my fortune. The minister agreed to his request and said that I was destined to be an empress."

"Tell your fortune?" Nandou Wenshan was shocked. "Minister Zuo is an astrologer?"

"Yes." Hua Jieyu nodded her head. Nandou Wenyin stood frozen in place. She then turned to her brother and asked, "What do you think of this?"

"So, this was the reason why his Majesty has such great trust in Minister Zuo," Nandou Wenshan murmured to himself. "I once read an ancient text about astrologers. They are extremely rare and possess the ability to tell a person's fortune. However, this ability is highly dependent on the astrologer's own powers. Based on Minister Zuo's powers, by empress, he could have meant a title of courtesy or a queen. Besides, astrologers can tell fortunes but cannot see the future. A told fortune can be changed."

What Nandou Wenshan did not know was that Minister Zuo did have doubts on the day he told Hua Jieyu's fortune. However, he only told her that she was destined to be an empress after she had asked about Ye Futian. In reality, the fortune Hua Jieyu was told consisted of a biased prediction from Minister Zuo.

Hua Jieyu nodded. She also believed that her fortune could be changed.

...

After Ye Futian returned to Donghai Academy, he put himself on lockdown to focus on cultivating. Even after he had demonstrated his gifts and also brought out the Decree of the Minister, the Nandou family clan was still conflicted on allowing him to be with Hua Jieyu. Since things have come to this, the only thing Ye Futian could do was to become even stronger. He was going to become so powerful that he wouldn't even need to seek the clan's approval. When spring arrived next year, he would head to Nandou Nation's Imperial City and attend the Tingfeng Banquet with Hua Jieyu. They were going to heal Hua Fengliu.

The days passed but Ye Futian has not set foot outside of the School of the Finance Star. His powers were increasing day by day.

Meanwhile, Donghai Academy had actually become more peaceful since Ye Futian's battle. The schools of the Emperor Star and the Treasury Star stopped picking fights with the School of the Finance Star. That day, the two schools were completely humiliated by Ye Futian. They did not have the nerve to look for trouble at the Finance Star school anymore.

However, everyone in Donghai Academy already knew that the School of the Emperor Star was not going to let this go so easily. Perhaps this was the peace before the storm.

Countless rumors circulated around the campus. They said that the School of the Emperor Star wanted to control all of Donghai Academy and that the seven schools were no longer going to stand together.

In the blink of an eye, it was the end of the year. It has almost been one year since Ye Futian arrived in the City of Donghai. He has already broken into the six-starred Glory Plane in both martial arts and the art of sorcery. But Ye Futian did not slow down his pace in cultivation. The Glory Plane was still too weak for the Nandou Nation standards. He hoped that he would be able to reach the Dharma Plane quickly and be able to find his place in the Nandou Nation.

While Ye Futian cultivated quietly, all officials from the schools of the Emperor Star and the Finance Star arrived at the entrance of Donghai Academy, including the two headmasters. Everyone at the academy was frantically trying to guess who they were welcoming. What kind of people would warrant such a big welcome?

Finally, a group of people traveling on beasts arrived. This scene was even more powerful and shocking than the time Minister Zuo arrived!

The Legend of Futian - Chapter 82: Betrothal

After Hua Jieyu left, Yi Xiang and the others returned to the yard.

"Going to Nandou tomorrow?" Yi Xiang asked.

"Were you eavesdropping?" Ye Futian looked up in shock and asked.

"You were speaking so loudly. There was no need to eavesdrop," Yi Xiang said indifferently. Ye Futian made a face at this. "I'll take you there tomorrow," Yi Xiang said.

Ye Futian finally smiled. "Headmaster, you really do see me as a disciple."

"Don't overthink. Your master stole one of my students who still won't return to the right path. Yu Sheng listens to you too so you have to live well for now," Yi Xiang said and then left.

Ye Futian was speechless. He knew that Yi Xiang thought highly of him but refused to admit it. He had a bad temper as well. Thankfully, Ye Futian was not his son-in-law.

"You're really going?" Yi Qingxuan asked, looking at him. She felt like it would lead to trouble.

"Even Masteress told me to go. She won't try to hurt me. Anyway, I have Minister Zuo's decree too. Even if the Nandou clan wants to kill me, they won't do it inside their home and your father will protect me on the way. Nothing bad will happen."

Ye Futian was very clear. Minister Zuo had said that he was favored by the ruler of Nandou nation. Minister Hua controlled the military but was equal to him. Even though he was kind to Ye Futian, someone so powerful was definitely intimidating. When he came to Donghai Academy last time, the big figures of the seven schools all had to bow down to him.

"Then, be careful," Yi Qingxuan told him.

"Okay." Ye Futian nodded.

Yu Sheng said, "I'm going with you."

"I'm going to go see my girl. What are you going for? Stay here and look after your own girl." Ye Futian glared at him.

Yu Sheng glanced at Yi Qingxuan. He scratched his head and said, "Oh."

When Ye Futian said 'girl,' Yi Qingxuan saw that Yu Sheng glanced at her. She blushed and ran away."

"Yu Sheng, it seems like you've got everything down. Nice." Ye Futian looked at his friend, laughing.

"No." Yu Sheng smiled a little and turned away. Looking at his backside, Ye Futian smiled. He couldn't believe this guy knew how to be shy.

...

The next day, he arrived at the Nandou clan. This was a lord mansion with centuries of history. It felt somber.

Centuries ago, the pioneer of Nandou nation had walked out of here. He was a true king but after him, none of the Nandou descendants could rival him in glory and they finally lost the throne.

Two figures appeared outside. Yi Xiang personally saw Ye Futian to the gate and he said, "I will wait for you outside.

As the headmaster of the School of the Finance Star, he had nothing to do with the Nandou clan so he clearly could not go in. He only came because he was worried Ye Futian would run into danger on the way. He no longer had to worry after Ye Futian stepped into Nandou's territory.

Ye Futian nodded lightly and walked forward. He gazed at the mansion, feeling butterflies in his stomach. The first day he arrived at Donghai City, his teacher had brought him here and told him he must conquer it in the future. He had to help Hua Fengliu enter confidently to bring his wife out. However, neither of them expected that he would become involved with the clan so early due to his relationship with Hua Jieyu.

Smiling, Ye Futian lifted his feet and walked toward the mansion. The guards seemed to know who he was. They let him enter without stopping him.

The path led straight into the mansion. Ye Futian advanced forward. Figures flashed in the mansion, seemingly to go report his entrance. After a short while, Ye Futian realized that there were many people around him. They were all young and glared at Ye Futian with animosity. Some were also curious.

They all knew that this guy before them was the disciple of the Qin Devil. His teacher had snatched Nandou Wenyin; now, he had snatched Hua Jieyu—the most skilled woman of the Nandou clan, unmatchable in both talent and beauty.

Under this situation, even if they knew how brilliant Ye Futian was, many of the Nandou clan still hated him.

Of course, some girls also thought deep down that he truly was handsome. Hua Jieyu probably didn't like him just for his talent.

In the mansion, a beautiful figure ran over. Seeing Ye Futian, her eyes brightened. She stopped before Ye Futian and said softly, "You're here."

"Yeah." Ye Futian smiled. Hua Jieyu smiled sweetly as well. She reached out and took Ye Futian's hand. She was telling the Nandou clan her attitude and determination.

Ye Futian was touched. He knew how much courage the action required. He grasped the hand tightly and they walked forward together.

This scene made many uncomfortable and unhappy. This b*stard, they thought, he's holding hands with our most talented woman.

It was not just the younger generation either. As they walked forward, many seniors looked unhappy as well. However, no one stopped them. Apparently, they had already walked hand in hand at the School of the Emperor Star. Stopping them now was meaningless. They would let the clan leader decide.

Hua Jieyu brought Ye Futian to a courtyard. Nandou Wenyin and Nandou Wenshan were both there. They had prepared a meal. It was clear that inviting Ye Futian today was Nandou Wenyin's idea. noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

"Masteress, uncle," Ye Futian greeted them.

"Come sit down," Nandou Wenshan said with a smile. Ye Futian nodded; he and Hua Jieyu sat before the table.

"I heard that they all know now?" Nandou Wenyin asked Hua Jieyu.

"Yes. The way here was filled with people." Hua Jieyu nodded lightly.

"Let's eat," Nandou Wenyin said. Her motive was just that: invite Ye Futian here to express her attitude. In the past, she had been forcefully separate from Hua Fengliu. Now, her daughter was about to step onto the same path but she hoped the ending would be different.

Hua Jieyu put some food onto Ye Futian's plate. Ye Futian smiled warmly and tasted the food. Then he looked up at Nandou Wenyin and said, "Your cooking is so good."

Nandou Wenyin glanced at Ye Futian. She said, "I heard from Jieyu that her father really likes you. After seeing you, I understand why. You two are the same type of person. Perhaps he sees himself in you."

Nandou Wenshan smiled too. He said, "Indeed, he and Fengliu both have faces that women can't reject. No wonder both Jieyu and her mother have fallen so hard."

"Professor is much better than me," Ye Futian said, lying against his conscience. He had to preserve Hua Fengliu's ego before his wife.

"No, you're wilder than he was," Nandou Wenyin said. The boy was not even 17-years-old and yet, he had already announced to the entire academy that Hua Jieyu was his. This was not something an average person would do. Wenyin knew how talented her daughter was. The average person would be intimidated but instead, Ye Futian had called her his. He had even killed the prodigy of the School of the Emperor Star in front of everyone."

"His talent is better too," Nandou Wenshan added. "Ye Futian, thank you."

Ye Futian glanced up in shock.

"You don't know how Wenyin had been living these years," Wenshan said with a smile. "She's like a zombie every day. When she heard that Hua Fengliu had returned to Donghai City, she finally came back to life. After seeing you at the Luo Palace, I guessed that you have a special relationship with Jieyu. I told her and she started paying attention to you. Yesterday was the first time she stepped out of the mansion all these years."

Ye Futian gazed at Nandou Wenyin. He could guess how deep her relationship with Hua Fengliu was.

"Masteress, I'll treat Fox well in the future. I'll have my master come get you too," Ye Futian said.

"Where did you get the nickname 'Fox' from?" Nandou Wenyin glared.

Ye Futian chuckled awkwardly. Hua Jieyu also glared at him and said, "Mother, the first time this mean guy saw me was when I first entered Qingzhou Academy. He said that this doll looked so sinful at 12-years-old that I'll definitely become a fox in a few years."

The two Nandou siblings were taken aback. Nandou Wenshan smiled after a while and said, "You were already so inappropriate at 12. You truly are better than your professor."

"I wasn't wrong," Ye Futian muttered awkwardly. He gave Hua Jieyu a look; the girl smiled at him mischievously.

"Wenyin, I heard you're better now," a voice traveled from outside the courtyard. Then they could hear various footsteps walk toward here.

Nandou Wenyin looked in that direction. After a bit, a group of people came in. At the head was the clan leader, Nandou Tai. Nandou Ku stood beside him. He studied Ye Futian with a sharp expression.

"Uncle," Nandou Wenshan rose and greeted him.

Nandou Tai nodded. He scanned Ye Futian and said with a smile, "You must be Ye Futian, Hua Fengliu's disciple."

"Greetings, senior," Ye Futian stood up and said. No matter what, he could not be impolite.

"The heroes come from the youths. I heard that you are unrivaled at the School of the Emperor Star and are even favored by Minister Zuo. You have surpassed your master," Nandou Tai said with a smile. "Do not mind the grudges of the past generation. I heard that Hua Fengliu isn't well these days. If there's the chance, please tell him to come visit. You and Jieyu are good friends so you can come visit in the future as well. I'm sure Wenyin will like it."

Ye Futian was a little shocked. How could the Nandou clan be so agreeable? But also, what did he mean by saying Ye Futian and Jieyu were 'good friends'?

"Uncle," Nandou Wenyin stood up and said to Nandou Tai, "Jieyu is almost 17 now and has someone she likes. They are both in love. I am planning on betrothing Jieyu to Futian and arranging this marriage. Uncle, what do you think?"

The Legend of Futian - Chapter 81: Masteress

In the room, Ye Futian followed behind Hua Jieyu as he watched her with a glint in his eye.

"Pretty nice environment," said Hua Jieyu with a smile after checking out the room.

"Yeah, perfect for resting," Ye Futian said, nodding.

Hua Jieyu walked to the bed and took off her outerwear, revealing her curvaceous figure. She then turned to look at Ye Futian. Smiling, she asked him, "Do I look good?"

Ye Futian blinked. Why did this feel like déjà vu? Ye Futian had a bad feeling about what was about to happen but nodded anyway. "Very good," he said.

"Then I'll rest and you can keep looking," Hua Jieyu chuckled mischievously. She took off her shoes by the bed and laid down, hands behind her head. She continued to chuckle at Ye Futian.

"That's my bed, I should be able to sleep on it too, right?" Ye Futian watched the beautiful girl in front of his very eyes. How could she tease him like this?

"Just you try," said Hua Jieyu. She was still smiling but Ye Futian looked sad and pitiful. "Fox, what you're doing is wrong."

Hua Jieyu stretched her captivating body out on the bed. Her every movement was torture for Ye Futian.

"I'm sleeping," she said. Hua Jieyu turned away from Ye Futian and pulled the blanket over her body. This time around, Ye Futian had nothing to look at, just a hint of her curvy figure under the blanket.

Ye Futian did not know whether to laugh or to cry. He was definitely going to get payback on this tempting vixen.

With light steps, Ye Futian walked to the side of the bed and sat down on the floor. Softly, he spoke, "Fox, do you feel extra warm sleeping here with me?"

Hua Jieyu did not reply.

"I used too much energy in battle today. I want to lie down and rest but the floor is too cold. Why don't I get in bed?" Ye Futian said, full of confidence. Still no reply.

"Don't worry. I won't touch you, I'll just lay next to you," he continued.

"Okay, since you're not answering I'll take that as silent consent," said Ye Futian.

Ye Futian kept talking to himself. He got up off the ground and sat on the bed. Hua Jieyu made no movements to stop him. He had finally succeeded in getting onto the bed next to her. "So comfy," he said.

A moment later, he spoke again, his eyes were twinkling. "Wow, it's so fragrant. Fox, you smell so nice.

"Darn it, it feels kind of cold. It would be so nice to have a blanket." Ye Futian was still talking to himself. As he spoke, he tugged lightly at the covers and gently pulled it on himself. The two of them were not under the same covers.

Right now, Hua Jieyu, who still had her back to Ye Futian, was already flushed red. Her beautiful eyes kept blinking. She could feel the warmth radiating from his body.

"How is it still cold under the covers. Are you cold, Fox? I should just hold you," he said. Hua Jieyu felt his arm wrap around her waist gently, sending a shiver down her back. Didn't he say that he was just going to lay down next to her and not touch her? He was cold?

"Fox, why are you shaking? Is it because you're too cold? I should hold you tighter then," Ye Futian said. Hua Jieyu felt the arm around her waist pulling her in further. The red in her face spread to her ears, her neck. She was so shy.

"Stop bullying me," she spoke softly.

Hua Jieyu's soft voice reached Ye Futian's ears and he smiled. He held on to the girl in his arms tightly, taking in her sweet scent. His nose was in her hair. He closed his eyes to savor this moment. Quietly, he said, "I wouldn't have the heart to bully you. Wait for me to marry you."

"Okay, I'll wait for you," Hua Jieyu responded, nodding slowly. Her shaking body calmed and she slipped into a deep sleep with a smile on her face. She felt safe in his arms.

Fox, I will definitely marry you, Ye Futian thought to himself while he held her warm body against his own.

While the loving couple shared this sweet moment, the happenings at the School of Emperor Star spread wildly. In a short while, all of Donghai Academy knew of the story.

Ye Futian, the disciple of the Guqin Devil, brutally defeated the disciple of the Art Saint, Zhou Mu. Then he crashed the School of the Emperor Star and joined hands with Yu Sheng to defeat two eight-starred Glory Plane cultivators from the School of the Treasury Star. After all that, Ye Futian announced to everyone that Donghai Academy's top beauty, Hua Jieyu, was his girlfriend. The couple revealed their relationship hand in hand.

Mu Yunxuan, an eight-starred Glory Plane cultivator in the School of the Emperor Star, got jealous and insulted Hua Jieyu, angering Ye Futian. Thus, Ye Futian challenged Mu Yunxuan to a battle to the death, and eventually defeated him with ease. Finally, with the Decree of the Minister in hand, Ye Futian slaughtered Mu Yunxuan right in front of the headmaster of the Emperor Star school.

The seven schools of Donghai Academy were stirred up in absolute shock. Everyone was in disbelief. They had no idea that boy-genius Ye Futian, who made a name in Donghai Academy for himself by fighting, was this powerful. In a couple of years, he may even be more powerful than the Guqin Devil was in the past.

...

It was now dusk. Ye Futian's room was quiet and warm.

In her sleep, Hua Jieyu had unknowingly turned over to face Ye Futian. Her soft body laid quietly in his arms. At this time, she opened her eyes. Her long eyelashes fluttered as she observed Ye Futian. "Aren't you going to get up?

"No, I'm going to continue sleeping until the sun rises tomorrow," Ye Futian said with a smile.

"You wish! You rested during the day, so you have to cultivate during the night," said Hua Jieyu, escaping his embrace. She got out from under the covers and sat up on the bed. Her hair was messy but it only made her more enchanting. She was so beautiful that it hurt to look at her.

"Fox, I could just eat you up," Ye Futian muttered. Hua Jieyu blinked and flushed red. Smiling, she said, "You can try."

"I'm really going to do it," said Ye Futian. He tried to make a move. His hands ready to grab Hua Jieyu.

A slender leg swept toward him and Ye Futian flipped off the bed.

"Are you trying to murder your husband?" Ye Futian sat up on the ground and asked her sadly. Hua Jieyu got off the bed and chuckled at him. She seemed proud of her actions.

"Ye Futian," called a voice from outside. It was Yi Qingxuan. Ye Futian was upset to be interrupted at this moment.

"I'm sleeping!" he replied.

"Ye Futian, hurry out!" she continued to shout from outside his room. Ye Futian reluctantly stood up. What did this girl want from him?

"Hua Jieyu, are you here?" another voice rang out from outside. Hua Jieyu froze. Then, she began to panic. She looked at Ye Futian and began to straighten out her hair and put on her outerwear.

"Who is that?" Ye Futian whispered to Hua Jieyu.

"My mother," Hua Jieyu replied in the softest manner.

Ye Futian turned to stone and jumped when he processed what she had just said.

Oh no, this was bad.

Moments later, the two of them left the room. Outside, they saw a few people. Headmaster Yi Xiang was also here. He stood not far away from the rest.

Standing in front of Ye Futian and Hua Jieyu was a beautiful woman. She looked to be around 30-years-old. Her whole being radiated elegance. One look at her and Ye Futian knew who she was. No wonder Hua Jieyu looked the way she did. This women in front of him must have been an extreme beauty in her youth. Her beauty plus Hua Fengliu's good looks, it was no surprise that their daughter was such a beauty.

To this day, Ye Futian had not found a man whose looks could compare to that of Hua Fengliu, other than himself.

"Mother," Hua Jieyu spoke softly. Ye Futian glared at Yi Qingxuan. Why hadn't she notified him earlier?

"Masteress," Ye Futian greeted the beautiful woman in front of him.

Nandou Wenyin eyed her daughter's messy hair then looked at Ye Futian. It was difficult to determine her thoughts through her eyes because they remained emotionless. To Ye Futian, it was like waiting to be sentenced.

To his master's wife, Fox's mother, Ye Futian could not act out no matter how arrogant he was.

"Qingxuan, let's go," Yi Xiang called out to his daughter. Yi Qingxuan and Yu Sheng bother nodded and left with the headmaster. The only people left standing outside were Ye Futian, Hua Jieyu, Nandou Wenyin, and Nandou Wenshan, who stood behind his sister.

"How is your master doing?" Nandou Wenyin suddenly opened her mouth to speak. She didn't question Ye Futian about what happened in the room but instead asked about Hua Fengliu. Her voice was crisp and comfortable.

"Master is doing well in the Guqin Gardens. He just misses you, Masteress," answered Ye Futian.

"He has Tang Lan to take care of him. So of course, he's doing well," said Nandou Wenyin. She sounded so calm. Ye Futian could feel sweat drip down his forehead. Was this how all jealous women acted?

"Master initially had no intentions of staying, but now that it is inconvenient for him to move around by himself, he needs someone to take care of him. Plus, Ms. Tang Lan was very adamant about him staying, so he had no choice but to accept her offer. The first day we arrived in the City of Donghai, Master brought me to the Nandou Palace. He pointed at the inside and told me that Masteress lived there and that he wanted to go in to see you," Ye Futian explained. Nandou Wenyin observed Ye Futian for a while, and from the look in his eyes, she decided that he did not seem to be lying.

After that, Ye Futian noticed that the look in her eyes had softened.

Nandou Wenyin looked at Hua Jieyu and asked her, "You like him?"

"Yes," nodded Hua Jieyu.

"Your father and I were the same in our youth, but you know how that ended. If something happens in the future, will you regret this?" Nandou Wenyin asked her daughter.

The young woman shook her head.

"Silly child," Nandou Wenyin's voice was soft and gentle. She sighed and turned to Ye Futian. "You took advantage of the challenge against the School of the Emperor Star to announce your relationship with Hua Jieyu. Did you do it on purpose so the Nandou family would see?"

"Masteress, I had no other choice. Even if I didn't admit it, the Nandou family probably already guessed as much," Ye Futian answered.

"You're even more arrogant than your master," said Nandou Wenyin. "I'm taking Jieyu home."

"Mother." Hua Jieyu looked at her mother.

Nandou Wenyin ignored her and continued to look at Ye Futian. "Come to our place for a visit tomorrow."

Ye Futian was frozen in shock upon hearing her words. Quickly, he broke out into a smile. "Thank you, Masteress!"

Hua Jieyu was just as surprised. It seemed like her mother did not object to their relationship.

"Hey kid, you're pretty gifted," Nandou Wenshan said suddenly. He walked closer to the three and smiled at Ye Futian.

"Senior, was it you who tried to warn me that day at the Luo Palace?" asked Ye Futian. After eliminating the chance that it was Vice Headmaster Han Mo of the Emperor Star school, Ye Futian always wondered who could have possibly warned him that day. Seeing Nandou Wenshan now, he had a realization.

"Why? Have you antagonized everyone in the Nandou family? I'm Hua Jieyu's blood uncle," Nandou Wenshan said while staring at Ye Futian.

"Oh." Ye Futian held in a smile and nodded his head. Then, he said rather loudly, "Greetings, Uncle!"

"Shameless," Nandou Wenshan reprimanded him jokingly. Afterward, the Nandou siblings led Hua Jieyu away.

As they were leaving, Hua Jieyu kept looking back at Ye Futian. She did not want to leave him.

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 157: Painting Examination

As his fame grew, ‘Master Teacher Yang Xuan’, who is a guise of Zhang Xuan, instead had more time to relax.

Even though there are many wealthy individuals in Tianxuan City, not many of them are capable of whipping out three million gold coins out of a blue. Furthermore, considering their own status, if they truly didn’t have grave problems that were beyond their own means, they would not dare to interrupt a master teacher's rest.

After Guild Leader Ouyang and Apothecary Chen Xiao's departure, the courtyard quietened once more.

After resting for an entire afternoon and seeing that no one came, Zhang Xuan removed his disguise and returned to the academy.

"Teacher, Huang Yu xiaojie has come to look for you and she is currently waiting in the classroom..."

Before he even reached the classroom, Yuan Tao had walked up to welcome him.

"What matter could she have for me?"

Zhang Xuan was perplexed. Knowing that it was impossible for Yuan Tao to answer this doubt of his, he returned straight back to the classroom without asking him too much about it. As expected, upon walking in, he saw Huang Yu xiaojie in the room, and she stood so quietly that the scene resembled a still painting.

The reason why she was able to become an assistant master teacher isn't just because she is the daughter of the guild leader of the Teacher Guild. On top of that, she possessed a relaxed and soothing disposition that naturally gave others a good impression of her.

Sure enough, Zheng Yang, Yuan Tao and others' eyes drifted toward her frequently but unwittingly, causing Zhao Ya to be so infuriated that she could murder someone.

Wang Ying and I aren't inferior in any way, alright? Why don't I see you peeking at us during lessons usually?

Damn it!

"Master Zhang!"

Oblivious to the thoughts of the young lady, Huang Yu's eyes lit up upon seeing him and hurried forward.

"For Huang xiaojie to come looking for me, is there any urgent matter?" Zhang Xuan asked.

"Master Lu invites you over." Huang Yu clasped her hands.

"Could it be that he wishes to bring me to the royal palace's Book Collection Vault?" Zhang Xuan's eyes sparkled.

Previously, Lu Chen had promised to bring him to the kingdom’s Book Collection Vault to look up Pixue realm secret manuals. As Emperor Shen Zhui wasn't in the capital then, the matter had to be postponed. However, given how he had specially sent Huang Yu to find him, there must have been some progress on the matter.

"Er... That isn't it!" Huang Yu said a little awkwardly. "Master Lu wishes to conduct an examination for me and Bai Xun and thus, he wishes to invite you over as a judge."

"Judge?" Zhang Xuan was stunned.

Huang Yu and Bai Xun wished to obtain Master Lu Chen's 【Ink Daylily Canvas】. Thus, Master Lu Chen declared that whoever proves to be more knowledgeable on painting would be given the painting. As a result, the two of them came looking for Zhang Xuan a few days ago to have him offer them some pointers on painting. However, how could Zhang Xuan possibly know anything about painting? Thus, he could only come up with some random statements, but who knew that the two would regard his words so highly and study them vigorously. This is probably the final examination.

"Yes, Master Lu Chen knows that you have a deep understanding of painting and thinks that you are able to come up with the most precise judgment. Hence, he tasked me to invite you over at all costs..." Huang Yu said.

Zhang Xuan's eyebrows twitched.

He didn't even know what kind of brushes there are, needless to say, to make a precise judgment... This Master Lu Chen sure regards him much too highly.

However, the other party had done a lot for him, and he is still hoping to enter the kingdom's Book Collection Vault. Therefore, he wasn't in a good position to reject the other party's invitation.

Furthermore, Huang Yu had played a big role in helping him resolve the matter regarding the Enlightenment Will Trial.

"So as long as you don't mind me spouting nonsense, I am fine with it. When does it begin?"

Zhang Xuan nodded his head and accepted the invitation.

"Initially, we agreed to start the test at noon, but you were not in... However, we should still be able to make it in time if we leave now." Huang Yu said.

"Noon?" Zhang Xuan was taken aback.

By the time he woke up, the sun was already hanging high up in the sky. Furthermore, he had idled for quite a long time before walking out of his mansion casually. It is already going to be noon shortly... Aren’t they in too much of a hurry to conduct the examination right now?

"Un!" Huang Yu nodded her head.

"Alright then!" Realizing that the other party was clearly determined to pull him over, Zhang Xuan knew that it would be futile to try rejecting the offer. Thus, he had a word with his students before following her out of the academy.

"I know that painting is hard to learn, and it doesn't seem like it would be easy to assess your standards!"

On the way, Zhang Xuan commented curiously.

He had never heard of a painting examination, needless to say, its rules.

After all, Master Lu Chen can’t possibly have Bai Xun and her draw at the same time and evaluate them based on it.

Huang Yu was born in the Teacher Guild and she is an assistant master teacher as well. Even though she had never specially learned painting before, it is likely that she possesses an acceptable level of skill. As for Bai Xun... It is truly difficult for a fellow who only knows about martial arts to contemplate over a person's painting posture.

"The examination is something Master Lu Chen and Master Yuanyu came up with. Bai Xun and I hadn't heard of it from them, so we don't really know the details of the examination and how it would be conducted!" Huang Yu shook her head.

"Master Yuanyu?" Zhang Xuan was puzzled

Isn't that fellow a famous physician in Tianxuan Royal City? Why is he determining the format of an examination?

"Master Yuanyu is not merely a master physician, he is also skilled in painting. In fact, even Master Lu Chen is full of praises for him. He drew the 【River Canary Painting】, of which, the river looked so lifelike that it seemed as though it was flowing. While drawing the painting on a boat, he actually attracted birds to his painting and the melodious chirping traveled far and wide. This became quite a legend in the city."

Huang Yu's eyes glowed with respect.

"He's that incredible? Zhang Xuan was taken aback.

He had heard of Master Yuanyu from Wang Ying on the day that he accepted her. All along, he had thought that the other party was simply a physician. He would never have thought that the famous physician would be an accomplished painter as well.

To be able to attract real birds to his painting, his painting skills are definitely comparable to Master Lu Chen's.

"Indeed, Master Lu Chen had invited him over as well. He said having three people serve as judges would result in a more objective evaluation." Huang Yu said.

Zhang Xuan nodded his head.

Since there are already two true master painters, Zhang Xuan's presence should be more of a supplement than a mandatory one. When the time comes, he just has to go with the flow. As such, he became less anxious.

The only reason why he is able to impress Master Lu back then was due to the library. Given his absolute ignorance about painting, he should avoid speaking later on so as to prevent himself from speaking anything amateurish and giving himself away.

The two of them chatted as they proceeded forward. Soon, they arrived at Master Lu Chen's residence.

Before they could even step into the entrance, the butler Uncle Cheng walked forward to usher them in, "Master Zhang, Huang xiaojie, why did you two only arrive now? Master Yuanyu says that he has to visit someone else later on this afternoon and he is already getting a little impatient."

"I happened to be out then, causing Huang xiaojie to wait a long time for me." Zhang Xuan said in embarrassment.

The other party had decided to hold the examination this noon, but Zhang Xuan was often away from the academy the past few days, making it difficult to get hold of him either. As such, their arrival was delayed.

"Please enter!" Upon hearing his explanation, Uncle Cheng did not dare to nag further and immediately called for the two to enter.

After obtaining a mansion of his own, the feeling he had upon returning to this place was completely different.

Even though the design is simple and plain, the minute details are exceptionally exquisite. The mansion that he had rented pales too far in comparison to it; the two aren't even on the same level.

Of course, if a true master teacher were to be the one who renovated the residence he rented, there was no way it would have looked like that. The sense of aesthetics of a merchant can't compare to that of a master painter.

Following behind Uncle Cheng, they soon arrived at the lounge. Taking a rough glance at the room, he saw Master Lu Chen and an elderly seated across each other, sipping on tea. The incomparably arrogant Bai Xun hid in the corner, looking at his surroundings anxiously. Upon seeing the duo, a delighted expression appeared on his face and he hurried forward to welcome them.

"Master Zhang, you're here..."

Zhang Xuan nodded his head and turned his attention to the renowned Master Yuanyu.

He looked around sixty to seventy year old and possessed a snow-white beard. Even though he isn't young anymore, his eyes are extremely spirited, giving one the feeling that energy is radiating from his eyes. For him to possess such vigor despite his advanced age, he truly lives up to his reputation as a famous physician.

"Little brother, you're here."

Master Lu Chen stood up with a smile.

"Master Lu Chen!" Zhang Xuan clasped his hands.

"Un, come over. Let me introduce you to Master Yuanyu, he is my best buddy, as well as a master painter!" Lu Chen happily introduced the two to each other. "Yuanyu, this is Brother Zhang Xuan, the one that I have told you about. Even though he is young, his talent in painting is probably in no way inferior to yours and mine."

"Master is truly generous. I just... casually spoke... casually learned a bit." Zhang Xuan hurriedly said.

Even though he was able to see through the flaws in Master Lu's painting, it was mainly due to the cheat machine he had on him. If he were to try to decipher it using his own abilities, he probably wouldn't be able to make heads or tails of it even if he spent three years on it.

"Knowledge and skills have nothing to do with age, and only those who are truly skilled will be deemed as masters. Since you were able to analyze Lu Chen's 【Summer-Autumn Painting】and 【Chi Xiong Howling to the Heavens】 and tell what is amiss with them, your ability of discernment is truly incredible. We really lack youngsters like you nowadays."

Master Yuanyu said.

His voice was calm and clear, and it granted its listeners a tinge of warmth.

It seemed that he had heard of Zhang Xuan's matter through Lu Chen's mouth, and his pitch-black eyes evaluated Zhang Xuan with curiosity.

"I am unworthy of your praises..." Zhang Xuan clasped his hands once more.

Only now did he know the names of the two paintings.

If Lu Chen and Yuanyu were to know his thoughts, they would definitely spurt blood.

A painter would often leave their names, bookmarks or words on it so that their name would remain in the annals of history.

He had seen the names on it, but as it was written in a unique font commonly used by painters, not to mention, it was written extremely sloppily, causing Zhang Xuan to be able to recognize those characters.

For him to be unable to recognize the words discernible by apprentice painter, to the point that he didn't even know that it was the name of the painting... To be called master with those standards of his... If he were thick-skinned enough to admit it...

Of course, back then, when he came into contact with the paintings, the Library of Heaven's Path had recorded their names in the books compiled on them. However, as he wasn't asked about the names then, he didn't pay any attention to it.

The few of them traded some pleasantries.

Master Yuanyu is indeed a person who is easy to get along with. Other people might look down on Zhang Xuan due to his young age, but not only did he not do so, he even held a level of admiration for him.

"Alright, since everyone is here, let's start!"

Master Lu Chen stroked his beard.

"Yes!"

Huang Yu and Bai Xun nodded their head simultaneously.

"There's only one Ink Daylily Canvas, and I can only give it to one of you. Thus, I devised this examination. Firstly, I do not wish to pass on this painting to someone who is completely ignorant of painting. Secondly, I hope to temper you two so as to rid your impatience and complacency, especially for Bai Xun."

Master Lu Chen said calmly toward the two.

Even though he loved this Ink Daylily Painting a lot, he was willing to pass it on to the later generations. The reason why he had established this examination was for the two to come into more contact with painting and learn more about it.

He had been devoted to painting his entire life, even placing his entire youth into in. Seeing that there is no one to succeed his legacy, he started to panic. At this moment, Huang Yu and Bai Xun came over to request for the painting. As such, he made use of this opportunity to lay down the rules so as to have them learn about it. Perhaps, through his actions, painting can flourish within Tianxuan Kingdom.

Using his words, everyone is too engrossed with martial arts and youngsters who are interested in painting are dwindling. If he does not do anything soon, this craft might even find itself without a successor. noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

Also, by doing this, it had the effect of tempering Bai Xun's personality. This fellow was short-tempered and often liked to resolve problems through his fists. Learning about painting could help him to calm his mind, thus keeping his temper in check. Otherwise, given that impatient personality of his, how could he inherit his father's position and guard the northern border on behalf of the royal family?

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 156: Resounding throughout the Capital

"You say that even Guild Leader Luo Chong was full of praises?"

"Du Miaoxuan had knelt for an entire day, and not only was his complexion glowing when he left the mansion, his cultivation was even raised?"

"Looks like we have all guessed wrongly, this Yang Xuan is definitely a master teacher!"

"Only a true master teacher can make a person like Du Miaoxuan kneel willingly and leave Guild Leader Luo Chong impressed..."

"Hurry up and prepare my name scroll, I want to pay him a visit!"

TL: It is like a name card when you visit others, detailing one's occupation, official rank, and everything else on it.

"What? The Yang Residence isn't accepting any visitors? Those who truly want to meet Yang shi has to first pay three million, and the sum is not refundable?"

"That makes sense as well. Everyone wants to meet a master teacher and if he really met anyone who visited his residence, he wouldn't be able to rest at all. Only when such standards are implemented will he be able to ward off others, especially those who had malicious intents..."

……

...

Such a situation is occurring in almost all of the powerful clans within the capital.

Everyone was taken aback.

Those who previously claimed that he is a fraud were completely silenced.

…………………………………………

After passing out for an unknown period of time, Zhang Xuan opened his eyes once more.

"This..."

Upon waking up, the first thing he realized was that countless knowledge had been assimilated into his mind. Every single book that was bathed in the golden book’s radiance had been imprinted into his head.

"This golden book can assimilate the knowledge within the library to be mine?"

Zhang Xuan was in a state of disbelief.

In the past, he had to manually browse through the books in the Library of Heaven's Path. The corresponding knowledge did not truly belong to him then. But now, all of it is deeply imprinted in his head, becoming a part of his memory.

That is to say, the current him, even without the Library of Heaven's Path, is a true apothecary in terms of his knowledge on pill forging.

"Where is that golden book?"

Zhang Xuan focused his attention into the library hurriedly and saw that the golden book is still there. However, the empty page within it had disappeared without a trace.

"This..."

Zhang Xuan blinked.

The disappearance of the golden page and the sudden infuse of knowledge in his head had occurred at the same time, it looks like the golden page holds such abilities.

"I wonder how this golden book is formed. It is simply too efficient to convert any book's content into my actual knowledge in such a manner..."

Initially, even with the enhanced learning speed in the Library of Heaven's Path, finishing hundreds of thousand of books would have taken at least two years or so. Yet, with a single glow of the golden page, everything had been converted into his knowledge. Learning has become an incomparably easy process.

"Un? I was unconscious for an entire night?"

Awaking to the delight of unexpected gains, Zhang Xuan looked outside and he was shocked. To think that he would have lost consciousness for an entire night just like that.

Stretching his back, just as he was about to look for some food, he saw his butler, Sun Qiang, walking in.

"Old master, Guild Leader Ouyang Cheng of the Apothecary Guild and Apothecary Chen Xiao are here to visit."

"Ouyang Cheng? Apothecary Chen Xiao?" Zhang Xuan was taken aback.

He is currently Master Teacher Yang Xuan, not Apothecary Zhang Xuan. In this identity, he does not know the other party, so why would they suddenly come looking for him.

"Yes. Furthermore... They have already waited 4 hours outside!" Sun Qiang was at a loss for words.

The old master sure can sleep. He returned to his bedroom the moment the sun set yesterday and slept all the way until now, when the sun has already risen high up in the sky... It is truly a wonder just by thinking of it.

He did not dare to interrupt the old master's sleep, so he could only tell the other party that the old master was resting. Who knew that the two of them would continue waiting at the entrance, camping outside for 4 straight hours... They sure are patient.

"Old master, Apothecary Chen Xiao has paid the three million. Look..."

"Have them enter!" Zhang Xuan gestured Sun Qiang to invite them in.

Sun Qiang left the room and in a moment's time, Guild Leader Ouyang and Apothecary Chen Xiao entered.

"Paying respects to Yang shi!"

Not daring to act haughtily before a master teacher, the two of them bowed immediately upon entering the room.

Initially, Apothecary Chen Xiao wanted to come alone. But considering that his prestige may be insufficient by itself, he roped Ouyang Cheng in as well.

"There's no need to stand on ceremony. If I'm not wrong, the reason why you two came so early to look for me should be because... this Apothecary Chen Xiao doesn't have long to live, and he hopes to look for a solution for his problem!"

Just as he was perplexed over the two's arrival, an inspiration flashed through his mind and Zhang Xuan recalled the matter at the Pill Debate.

This Chen Xiao had been cursed by someone else and as such, a death aura engulfed him, eating into his lifespan. Back then, during the Pill Debate, Zhang Xuan felt that he had reneged on the promises he made and that he wasn't worth saving, so he didn't elaborate much about the matter. This fellow probably couldn't find a solution to his problem and upon hearing that a master teacher had arrived in town, he came knocking to try his luck.

That was fine by Zhang Xuan as well. He could make him pay a hefty sum and in this way, he could redress the grievances of the person who entrusted his final will to him.

Upon hearing Zhang Xuan's abrupt words, Ouyang Cheng and Apothecary Chen Xiao nearly knelt down from fright and fainted.

Didn't a master teacher require a person to first display their battle technique, pill forging, or at the very least, examine one's body, before deducing one's problems or illnesses?

How was he able to tell all this in a single look...

Is this still his ability of discernment? Even a seer isn’t as incredible as him!

Shocked by Yang shi's capabilities, Apothecary Chen Xiao's face paled further. He was worried.

For the other party to be able to see through this much with a single look, his illness must be truly serious.

Can it be that he can't even survive to the next day?

"Where is the cauldron? Have you discarded it yet? Also, reneging on your promises without even trying to fulfill it just because the other party is dead should be an action unbefitting of your identity as an official apothecary!"

Oblivious to the two’s astounded expressions, Zhang Xuan recalled the contents of the book and continued speaking.

Noticing that there was no response, he lifted his head to take a look, only to see that Ouyang Cheng and Apothecary Chen Xiao's face were ghastly white.

Especially for the latter, his entire body was convulsing as though he was suffering from a stroke. Unable to hold endure any further, he collapsed to the floor on his knees.

"Yang shi, save me... I beg you, please save me..."

Apothecary Chen Xiao was scared witless.

No one knew that he had obtained a cauldron from his dead friend. Even Zhang Xuan had only inferred that he had obtained a treasure from a deceased and didn't know what it was exactly. Yet, this person, even without a close examination, was able to tell so immediately...

Are you a deity?

Or else... How would you know...

"Is what Yang shi said true?"

Even though Ouyang Cheng had no idea how Apothecary Chen Xiao got afflicted with a death aura, looking at his expression at this moment, he realized that what Yang shi had said was the truth.

He was overwhelmed with awe for the other party.

Without requiring anything but just a single glance, he is able to tell the root of a person's illness, his symptoms, and even the cause... This is too incredible!

"Er..."

Only upon seeing the dumbfounded expression on their faces did Zhang Xuan remember that he is Master Teacher Yang Xuan currently, and he does not know the two of them. Clearing his throat to break the awkward atmosphere, he said, "It's not difficult to save you. Firstly, you have to bury the cauldron with that old acquaintance of yours, then complete the task that he had delegated to you before his death... Finally, you just have to get some pills that are rich in spiritual energy to nourish yourself for half a year."

Actually, the other party's problem isn't really serious. He was cursed by the old acquaintance of his, but as long as he fulfills his promise solemnly and stays away from the cauldron, the power of the curse will slowly weaken and as time goes by, he will recover completely.

"Yang shi, thank you for your guidance!"

Hearing that there is hope for him, Apothecary Chen Xiao hurriedly nodded his head. At this moment, he does not doubt the other party's words in the least.

To be able to tell what his problem was with a single look, he is definitely more than capable of solving his problem.

Having learned the method to save himself, there was no longer any need for the two of them to stay. Thus, they turned around to leave.

Walking straight out of the main gates, Apothecary Chen Xiao still felt as though everything that had just happened is a dream.

The problem that left him in anguish and despair for numerous days, made him order his clan to sell their fortune and move to the rural countryside... was solved in just a few moments?

"There's no need to think too much about it. A master teacher's words are gold. Even though he phrased it in a very simple manner, his ability to provide a solution to settle the root of a problem is not something others can emulate!"

Upon seeing the dazed look on the other party's face, Ouyang Cheng glanced backward with a look of admiration before commenting in awe.

…………………………

The matter of Apothecary Chen Xiao and Guild Leader Ouyang Cheng entering and leaving the mansion became another affair that the various powers in the capital were concerned over.

"These two apothecaries had barely been in for five minutes and they are already out? Could it be that their problem is not settled? Help me look into it. I want to know what kind of problem that two apothecaries of noble standing could meet with such that they require the help of a master teacher!"

"You say that... Apothecary Chen Xiao had already conducted a funeral at his residence, sold all of his fortunes here, and even wrote a will... But after meeting Yang shi, he immediately swapped the white cloth into red ones and celebrated, as though the crisis had been averted?"

TL: In funerals, the mourning attire, and sometimes the location, would be white. On the other hand, red is the color of celebration (usually used in weddings).

"He was afflicted with a severe illness that could lead to his death at any moment, but in the five minutes that he met Yang shi, was cured of his illness..."

"Looks like we were all wrong. We only know the names of 1-star master teachers. Given the capabilities of this Yang shi... Can it be that he isn't just a mere 1-star?"

"A higher tier master teacher?"

The entire city shook when the news was spread.

Today, the name of Yang Xuan——

Resounds throughout the capital.

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 155: 5-star Incident

The Chen Clan, due to having an official apothecary within its ranks, is an extremely prominent and distinguished clan in Tianxuan Kingdom.

Usually, in such a clan, there would be no shortage of pills, everyone would have great accomplishments and they would walk with their heads held high. Yet, at this moment, every member of the clan had put on a bitter expression. A depressing atmosphere loomed over the entire Chen Residence.

"Alright, let's go by this rule. No one is to object or he will face being expelled from the clan!"

In the hall, Apothecary Chen Xiao surveyed the surroundings before speaking sentimentally and desperately.

He was invited as an examiner for the Pill Debate with a fellow named Zhang Xuan, but the other party declared that he would be unable to live for much longer. Feeling that his body functions are indeed starting to fail, he felt extremely dismal. Thus, he started to make preparations upon returning to the clan.

He is an apothecary and his presence brought the entire Chen Clan to prosperity. The moment he dies, those who are envious of his fortune would definitely employ every possible mean to wrestle for a share. If so, it would just be a matter of time before the clan falls.

Thus, in order to prevent such a scenario from occurring, he ordered for all clansmen to sell their assets and disappear from the capital, never to return.

"Clan head..."

After those words were spoken, wails echoed in the air.

They had been living a life of luxury, and many could not accept the fact that they have to move to a far away place so suddenly.

“Enough! What is this clan becoming, for you to be crying and wailing? Chen Cong, make the necessary preparations!" Apothecary Chen Xiao said.

Chen Cong is his son. Knowing that he doesn’t have many days left, he had already appointed him as the new clan head.

"Yes!" Chen Cong nodded his head. Just as he was about to leave, a young man walked forward and whispered something into his ears. Then, Chen Cong's eyes lit up and he hurriedly raised his head, "Father..."

"What is it?" Apothecary Chen Xiao lifted his teacup and frowned angrily.

He always believed that his son comprehends the importance of prioritizing, so why is he so disobedient now?

Does he not know that the Clan’s prosperity is due solely to his identity as an official apothecary? Without his prestige suppressing the ambitions other clans possess, they wouldn't be able to guard the wealth they had accumulated through pill forging throughout these years.

"Father, a master teacher has appeared in the capital. Perhaps... He can solve your problem..." Noticing the displeasure on his father's face, Chen Cong spoke quickly, not daring to hesitate in the least.

"Master teacher? Could it be fake news?" Apothecary Chen Xiao shook his head.

If it were indeed a master teacher, how could he, a dignified 1-star apothecary, possibly have not received any news?

"I don't know for sure, but I sent Chen Tao to investigate upon hearing the rumors yesterday. This master teacher is known as Yang Xuan and not only did he solve Ling Tianyu's wife's illness, even Du Miaoxuan from the Du Clan knelt before his gates. Furthermore..."

"Furthermore what?"

"Furthermore, when Du Miaoxuan emerged from his mansion less than ten minutes after entering, he had already evolved from a Dingli realm pinnacle to a Tongxuan realm expert." Chen Cong hurriedly said. "On top of that... the guild leader of the Blacksmith Guild, Luo Chong, also entered his mansion, and when he left, he was full of praises for the person, claiming that he is a true master teacher..."

Dang lang! Before he could finish his words, the teacup in his father's hands had fallen onto the ground and shattered into pieces. Following which, his lifeless and pitiful expression vanished and in its place was a face so flushed, it was as though his cheeks were on fire. "Where does this master teacher live? Bring me to meet him now..."

"Right now? I have to first sell the family fortune..."

Chen Cong muttered, but before he could finish his words, his father, who seemed as though he might breathe his last any moment now, had already reached the doorstep and he bellowed, "Selling your head! Hurry up..."

"..." Chen Cong.

"..." The crowd in the Chen Clan.

The wailing in the room silenced in an instant and everyone's mouth was so wide that a chicken egg could be stuffed into it. Looking at the clan head whose attitude did an 180-degree turn all of a sudden, they became completely speechless.

…………………………

Pavilion Elder Qian does not wield actual authority in Tianxuan Kingdom, but he holds a very important position. Every fortnight, Emperor Shen Zhui would summon him to the royal palace and query him.

He is the emperor's eyes. He gathers all news within the country and sorts them into books for the emperor to peruse.

It is only with these news that Emperor Shen Zhui is able to keep abreast of current affairs and continue making wise decisions for the country, allowing the kingdom to grow stronger steadily and not be threatened by powerful enemies.

Thus, in the kingdom, even personnel who hold true authority do not dare to offend him. They fear that he might pass on incorrect news which could cause the emperor to doubt them.

Today is yet another day to sort and compile the gathered news for reporting. Thus, he had arrived at his personal office early in the morning.

At this moment, the room is squeezed full of people, all of them embroiled in a squabble.

"Causing a ruckus like this, how inappropriate!"

Seeing that his subordinates were arguing among themselves instead of working, Pavilion Elder Qian's face darkened.

"Yes!" Everyone immediately ran back to their positions fearfully.

"Pavilion Elder..."

A middle-aged man walked over.

"Un, are there any important incidents that happened these few days?" Pavilion Elder Qian sat in his chair and looked over.

This is his job scope. He would ask his subordinate about the incidents that had occurred in the capital and compile them before considering whether he should highlight any individual incident to the emperor.

"In these ten days, there is a total of 17 1-star incidents, 12 2-star incident, and 3 3-star incidents..." The middle-aged man hesitated before passing over a stack of paper.

Countless incidents were detailed on top and they were divided in terms of their importance so as to make it convenient for others to read through it. They were graded stars based on their respective importance.

1-star is the lowest level and it means that the incident isn't important at all. As the number of stars increase, the more important the incident become. 5-star is the highest number of stars an incident can be given, and the severity of the matter would be equivalent to that of an enemy invasion and the downfall of the country is in sight.

Listening to the report, Pavilion Elder Qian lowered his head to take a look.

"Bai Xun xiao wangye challenged son of Prime Minister Liu Cheng and injured him, causing a huge conflict between the two great clans... Evaluation, 1-star!"

"Royal Secretary Lu Zhong brought a new concubine to his family and she is a citizen of Tianyu Kingdom. Her exact identity is unknown... Evaluation, 1-star!"

"17 people of Tianxuan Merchant Firm assaulted by bandit at Plum Snow Ridge and they were completely annihilated. Bandits likely to be the same ones who escaped from the capital several months ago... Evaluation, 1-star!"

……

...

Even though 1-star incidents are of the lowest severity within the classification, they had far-reaching impacts. Taking the first example of Bai Xun challenging the son of the Prime Minister, for example, if the matter isn't resolved properly, it is easy for the conflict to escalate. If discord were to be sowed among two authorities of the royal court, the internal stability of the country would be affected.

However, it is clear that these people are used to dealing with such matters. They aren't too agitated upon seeing these earth-shaking incidents.

"Un, you did well evaluating them!" Looking through the 17 1-star incidents, Pavilion Elder Qian nodded his head. Then, he flipped to the second page and what was written on it was mainly 2-star incidents.

"A calamity occurred in the Southwest Hundred Ridges and thousands of people lost their homes. Currently, they have been settled... Evaluation, 2-star!"

"Tianxuan Money Vault recently released new bills, the highest denomination is a million... Evaluation, 2-star!"

"Zhunnan Marquis reached Tongxuan realm advanced stage, becoming one of the top ten experts in the kingdom... Evaluation, 2-star!"

……

...

These matters are closely related to the politics and situation of the kingdom. The impacts these matters could possibly bring are much greater than that of 1-star incidents.

After looking through the twelve 2-star incidents, Pavilion Head Qian nodded his head once more. There is nothing wrong with the evaluations here as well.

Flipping over to the third page, 3-star incidents were detailed on it.

"The Teacher Guild stripped Elder Shang Chen of Hongtian Academy of his position as the head of Education Bureau for being not partial in his evaluation of Zhang Xuan laoshi's Teacher Qualification Examinations... Evaluation, 3-star!"

“Zhang Xuan laoshi and Lu Xun laoshi would be competing in a Teacher Evaluation 12 days later... Evaluation, 3-star!"

……

...

"Incidents regarding the Teacher Guild and academies would automatically be promoted by a single star. Lu Xun laoshi is the individual who is most likely to become a master teacher of Tianxuan Kingdom, and as such, incidents involving him are given an additional star. These two events are indeed worth 3-star, not bad!"

After which, Pavilion Elder Qian nodded his head.

"There are no problems with these... The problem is... is..."

Hesitation shrouded the middle-aged man's face.

"What's wrong?" Pavilion Elder Qian's eyebrows shot up.

"Something has happened these few days and we are unable to determine a star rating for it. That is the matter that we were discussing earlier..." The middle-aged man said.

"Oh? Tell me!" Pavilion Elder Qian glanced at him in curiosity.

"Three days ago, a person named Yang Xuan appeared in the capital. He claimed that he is a master teacher and he settled Ling Tianyu's wife's illness..." The middle-aged man said.

"Oh, I've heard of the matter. I even specially headed to the Teacher Guild to investigate the matter, but there isn’t such a name in the records of that kingdom. It is probably a gimmick of Ling Tianyu, so there's no need to pay it much heed. Alright, classify it under 1-star incidents!" Pavilion Elder Qian said. noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

Master teachers are just like stars in the sky, an existence that others can only look up to. As long as a kingdom has a 1-star master teacher supporting it, its overall might would be bolstered significantly. If the other party is truly a master teacher, how could he come into the capital without anyone knowing of it?

"1-star incident?" The middle-aged man smiled bitterly. "I'm afraid that the matter isn't as simple as that. If he only treated Ling Tianyu's wife, 1-star would suffice. However... Yesterday, Elder Du Miaoxuan from the Four Great Clans knelt at his entrance for an entire day, and in the ten minutes that he was in the mansion, he broke through from Dingli realm pinnacle to Tongxuan realm!"

"What? Such an incredible increase in his strength?"

Pavilion Elder Qian was taken aback. A grim expression appeared on his face as he said, "If that's the case, the matter can be classified as a 2-star incident..."

"Yesterday afternoon, the guild leader of the Blacksmith Guild, Lord Luo Chong, entered the residence and his face was glowing when he emerged. He was full of praises for the master of the mansion and claimed that he is a true master teacher..."

Ignoring the evaluation Pavilion Elder Qian made, the middle-aged man continued speaking.

"Luo Chong..."

Pavilion Head Qian abruptly stood up with completely widened eyes.

Who is Luo Chong?

The guild leader of the Blacksmith Guild, one of the top figures of the Tianxuan Kingdom!

If he thought so as well, could it be that... This Yang Xuan is truly a master teacher?

"Then... then... This incident can be classified as a 3-star incident..."

Pavilion Elder Qian was astonished.

Before he could finish his words, the middle-aged man's voice sounded once more.

"This morning, Guild Leader Ouyang of the Apothecary Guild and Apothecary Chen Xiao visited his mansion, but they were blocked at the door by the other party's butler. Even so, not only did they not leave, they waited patiently without a single word of complaint..."

"This... This..." Pavilion Elder Qian's face turned completely white and he staggered backward in disbelief. "This is a... 4-star. No, it's a 5-star incident. Hurry up and write all of these down. I have to report this to the emperor, do it as fast as you can!"

"5-star?"

"Is there no need to double confirm it?"

5-star incident... It has not appeared in Tianxuan Kingdom for several decades now.

The crowd, who were unable to determine a star rating for the incident, upon hearing Pavilion Elder Qian's words, were flabbergasted. Then a brief moment later, chaos broke loose.

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 154: The Use of the Golden Book?

"What?"

Luo Chong's face darkened.

Even if you are a master teacher, you shouldn't insult me like that!

No matter what, I am the dignified leader of the Blacksmith Guild. I am of noble standing, and you say that I stuffed myself despite being already full (looking for it)...

I came here in earnest to consult you, yet you gave me such an answer. Aren’t you are looking down on me...

Even though Sun Qiang already knew that the old master would say such shocking words, he was still unable to control his shock upon hearing those words and nearly knocked his head against the wall.

My great old master, it is really okay for you to speak to a true blacksmith like this?

Cough cough, even an ordinary person would turn all out against you if you say such words to them...

Most importantly... The reason why he came here is to seek enlightenment on why he is unable to successfully forge an equipment. Yet, the first few words you say to him is that he stuffed himself when he was full (looking for it)... Aren't you being too arrogant?

What does stuffing oneself have to do with forging equipment? The only relationship between the two is that one would feel weak if one doesn’t eat. However, for a Tongxuan realm expert like Guild Leader Luo Chong, this shouldn't pose a problem at all!

"There's no need to get so agitated!"

Seeing that the other party was getting agitated, Zhang Xuan smiled, not paying the other party's anger any heed. "You don't need to deny my words so hurriedly. Let me ask you, have you been eating 【Dragon-scaled Prawns】 daily?"

"Indeed, is there a problem?" Luo Chong looked at Yang shi doubtfully.

The Dragon-scaled Prawn is an animal unique to Lake Hong and it made a delectable dish. It is one of the most favorite food in the upper echelons of Tianxuan Kingdom. He also used to eat it frequently, but such an anomaly had never occurred in the past. Could his failure to forge equipment really be related to this?

"If I'm not wrong, these Dragon-scaled Prawns that you ate came from one batch you bought at a single go!"

Zhang Xuan continued asking.

Luo Chong nodded his head. At the same time, a doubt arose in his mind.

How did the other party know this?

His Dragon-scaled Prawns came from the same batch he bought a few days ago. There were several thousands of it, filling two whole crates. In order to ensure its freshness, he even reared them specially in his courtyard's pond.

He would carefully pick the living and healthy ones to eat, so it is impossible for anything to be wrong with the prawns. Furthermore, after consuming it, there weren't any anomalies with his body, and he didn't suffer from diarrhea or any other symptoms either. How can this be related to him being unable to successfully forge weapons?

"That's right then!" Zhang Xuan chuckled. "Do you know when do Dragon-scaled Prawns reproduce?"

"When do they reproduce?" Luo Chong became increasingly confused. He was only interested in eating the prawns, how would he possibly know all these?

"I know..."

Just as he was about to ask Yang shi for the answer, Sun Qiang suddenly spoke.

"Speak!" Zhang Xuan nodded his head.

"Dragon-scaled Prawns usually bear their offspring near the end of summer, the start of autumn, which is around now!" Sun Qiang said.

He had worked in Tianyu Merchant Firm for numerous years. Even though he had never bought them, he often came into contact with these products and naturally, he possessed a little bit of knowledge on them.

"That's right. It's this season!" Zhang Xuan nodded his head.

The academy's semester had just started not long ago, and it is currently the start of autumn, which is also the mating season for the Dragon-scaled Prawns.

Hearing those words, Luo Chong felt his head going faint. He was about to go insane from the confusion. noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

Yang shi, I'm here to ask you why I am unable to forge equipment, not to look into when Dragon-scaled Prawns reproduce... What matter is it of mine that they bear offsprings? It is not like the children are mine...

"There's no need to be anxious. You being unable to forge equipment has something to do with this!" Seemingly sensing his bewilderment, Zhang Xuan continued to say. "The Dragon-scaled Prawn is considered an yin-type food. Eating too much will weaken a person's yang energy. Of course, this weakening effect is minimal and negligible, and doesn't affect a person's body at all!"

"However, the Dragon-scaled Prawns after mating are different!"

"The Dragon-scaled Prawn infuses all of its essence and vitality into its offsprings, causing its own body to weaken. Furthermore, its body generates a substance that will numb a person's nerves. With excessive consumption, one's mind will become dull..."

At this point, Zhang Xuan paused and looked at Zhou Chong with glowing eyes. "Have you been unable to enter the state of Will of Mind 2-dan, Heart of Tranquil Water? Not only so, you find yourself getting irritated easily, causing your forging abilities to take a huge blow, resulting in you being unable to successfully forge an equipment?"

Regardless of whether one was forging pills or equipment, one's state of mind is of absolute importance. Without a steady mind, it is impossible for one to succeed.

"Could it truly be that... I've eaten too many Dragon-scaled Prawns?"

Luo Chong's entire body shuddered and he staggered two steps backward.

It is true that recently, he had been unable to focus his attention on forging equipment, and that he was unable to enter the state of Heart of Tranquil Water to achieve total serenity. He had tried all kinds of methods and means to calm himself but to no avail. To think that the problem... lies with the prawns.

It was inconceivable to him that a Dragon-scaled Prawn which had undergone the reproduction process would produce a substance that would numb one's nerves... If not for the other party pointing it out, he would have never imagined that this would be possible. However, why haven’t he heard of it before?

"All animals have their own means of self-protection. Dragon-scaled Prawns are the same as well. They are at their weakest right after their birth, and thus, they produce such a substance to protect themselves. However... They still ended up on the plate anyway!"

Zhang Xuan shook his head.

"I know my fault now. In future, I will never eat Dragon-scaled Prawns again. Yang shi, please guide me on how I can resolve this situation!"

With a pale face, Luo Chong hesitated for a slight moment before hurriedly clasping his fist.

Even though he loves eating Dragon-scaled Prawns, forging equipment is far more important than the former.

"Er..."

Upon hearing the other party's words, Zhang Xuan was stumped.

Actually, he didn't know how he should resolve the problem as well.

The Library of Heaven's Path only detailed the reasons behind why he was facing such a condition. Luo Chong's main problem is that he had eaten too many Dragon-scaled Prawns, causing the nerve-numbing venom to accumulate in his body, thus resulting in his unstable mental state and him failing in his forging attempts.

As for how he can dispel this venom, Zhang Xuan is truly clueless.

However, even if he didn't know, he wouldn't let anyone else find out. There was barely a brief moment of hesitation before he placed his hands behind his back to portray the image of a supreme expert.

"First release those Dragon-scaled Prawns that you have caught. As for the solution to your problem, it will depend on your future actions. However... I can tell you this. As long as you stay away from it for a long period of time, you will recover slowly, but surely!"

He wasn't deceiving the other party. The detoxification ability of a human body is extremely powerful, especially so for a Tongxuan realm expert. As long as he stays away from the prawns for a period of time, the venom that had accumulated in his body will be passed out quickly.

"Yang shi, thank you for your guidance!"

Knowing the cause and solution to his problem, Luo Chong heaved a sigh of relief. He hurriedly bowed to him.

At this moment, he was already completely impressed by this Yang shi.

Just by seeing him forge an equipment, he is able to tell that he likes to eat Dragon-scaled Prawns and even found the root of the problem as to why he was unable to successfully forge an equipment——He stuffed himself when he was full (Looking for it)!

As expected of a master teacher, his ability of discernment is indeed incredible.

The three million, worth it!

"Yang shi, can you offer me some pointers for equipment forging?"

Finally uncovering the reason behind his problem and knowing that time can resolve it, Luo Chong's mind started to wander.

He had been stuck at the 1-star blacksmith intermediate stage for a very long time, being unable to break through this limit. Now that there is a master teacher before him, he was tempted to make full use of this opportunity to obtain a pointer or two so that he can break through this impasse.

"Equipment forging?"

Zhang Xuan did not expect that the other party would not leave right after his problem was solved and instead, request to learn equipment forging from him. For a moment, he was taken aback.

Honestly, he didn't even know what one had to do for equipment forging, so how could he offer him pointers?

"Looks like I am being too impetuous..."

Upon receiving no reply from the other party, Luo Chong felt awkward.

A master teacher only teaches his own students. He is in no way related to him, so it is indeed a little inappropriate for him to have made such a request.

Zhang Xuan waved his hands, "Xiao Qiang, escort our guest out!"

"Master Luo, the old master needs to rest. This way please!"

Sun Qiang stepped forward.

"Yes!" Luo Chong nodded his head and bid farewell.

"It is indeed difficult to pass off as a master teacher..."

Seeing Luo Chong leave, Zhang Xuan rubbed between his eyebrows.

Master teachers grasped the knowledge of innumerable occupations in their minds and they possess discernment abilities unimaginable to others. At present, the reason why he had been able to achieve this much was due to the help of the Library of Heaven's Path. The moment he stops using it, he will be exposed in an instant.

"I really do wonder how those master teachers gather and store so much knowledge in their mind..."

A person's energy is limited. After undergoing the apothecary examination, he understood that the knowledge required in just the field is as vast and as deep as the ocean. Without the library, not only would be unable to pass the examination, he might not have been able to score even a single point.

A true master teacher can't possibly possess such a cheating machine. It is truly a mystery to him how they are able to learn so much and pass all those examinations, given a human’s limited lifespan.

"Regardless, I have to read more books from now on. After all, the library is still an external object!"

The thought appeared in his mind.

To him, even though the library is incredible, it remains as an external tool. If he were to rely on it for everything he does while not putting in any effort to improve himself, even if he were able to pass off his disguise successfully in a remote and backward kingdom like Tianxuan Kingdom, he will definitely be exposed if he were to go somewhere more prosperous.

Thus, no matter what, his own vault of knowledge is important as well.

The thought appeared in his mind and grew so powerful that he is no longer able to flush it out. With a jolt of his mind, he looked at the Library of Heaven's Path once more.

Reading books and learning from them in the real world is a slow process, but he is able to speed up the process multiple folds by reading the books inside the library. He had already experienced such wonders for himself previously.

Even though the books in the library are accessible to him with a single thought and he is able to freely look through it, the knowledge nevertheless can't be said to truly belong to him.

It is just like in Baidu and Google in his previous life. Although such technology allows one to look up for solutions to their problems, the knowledge is external to its users. One is unable to utilize them easily and freely.

Only by memorizing everything in his own mind can he be truly considered as knowledgeable.

"Un? What is that?"

Upon entering the library, he noticed something that is out of place.

Unknowingly, a golden book had appeared in the depths of the densely packed bookshelves.

He is extremely certain that he had never seen this manual before.

"Come here!"

With a swipe of his hand, the golden book gently quivered and fell right into his palm.

The book is extremely thin and there doesn't seem to be much content in it. Flipping it open casually, Zhang Xuan was dumbfounded.

There was only a single page to it and there were no content whatsoever in it. It was a blank book.

"What is the use of this book?"

Zhang Xuan was bewildered.

He doesn't know when such a book had appeared in the Library of Heaven's Path, nor does he know why it is completely blank.

"I should just put that aside for now and focus on gaining knowledge from the other books..."

After examining the golden book for a very long time, he remained unable to uncover its purpose. Thus, Zhang Xuan shook his head and chose to put it aside. He looked at the Library of Heaven's Path once more. Many books had been formed in it, and he intended to look through them properly so as to assimilate the knowledge into his mind.

The moment the thought flashed through his mind, before he could even make a move, the golden book in his hand quivered and transformed into a brilliant ray of light. Under the blinding radiance, all of the contents of all the books in the library came surging into Zhang Xuan's mind.

Before Zhang Xuan could react, everything went dark. He had fainted.