The Legend of Futian - Chapter 131: The Tingfeng Banquet Begins

Ye Futian's group headed closer to the battle platforms. Just then, a harsh voice shouted, "Ye Futian!" The surrounding area was crowded and in disarray. Because of this, Ye Futian did not notice the members of the Nandou Clan. It was not until he heard the shout that he turned his attention over and saw them. Nandou Ku was among the group. The look in his eyes was ice cold, ready for blood.

WHOOSH! The members of the Nandou Clan did not waste any words and released all types of spells at Ye Futian.

A figure stepped out from beside Ye Futian. With a slight step forward—just one step—the wood sorcery targeted at Ye Futian was destroyed. At the same time, a fearsome force of sword intent filled the air. The temperature dropped and every member of the Nandou Clan was encapsulated by the force. They could not help but shiver at the drop in temperature.

The small area in which they occupied seemed to have been frozen. The members of the clan stared at the figure that appeared in front of Ye Futian. Shock filled their eyes. They could not believe there was such a powerful individual by Ye Futian's side, protecting him. Did the disappearance of their fellow clan members in Donghai City have something to do with this person?

When Ye Futian had appeared in front of their very eyes just a moment ago, they had no other thoughts but to capture him. But seeing this powerful individual, the clan members seemed to have broken out of their daze. Why had Ye Futian shown up at the Tingfeng Banquet?

"There's no need for you guys to be in such a rush. I will pay a visit to the Nandou Clan in Donghai City sooner or later." Ye Futian quickly glanced at the clan members and continued on his way. He did not want to get pulled into this situation with them right now and obviously, Jing Yu could not start a massacre at the Tingfeng Banquet.

Jing Yu and the others moved forward together leaving the members of the Nandou Clan to stand in place, watching Ye Futian as he walked away. No one chased after him. They were all intimidated by the powerful feel Jing Yu gave off.

What on earth was going on? It was true, everyone thought it was odd that Ye Futian had the guts to show up at the Tingfeng Banquet, an imperial event held by the emperor. Jing Yu was strong, but no matter how strong he was, he could not go up against the emperor of the Nandou Nation. Emperor Luo was a cultivator in the Noble Plane. He was the only one in all of the Nandou Nation. The Nandou Clan could not even take care of themselves as of late, so of course, they did not know what had happened in the Cangye Kingdom. To be honest, only the royal Luo family would care about what happened in the neighboring countries. Thus, never in a million years, would the Nandou Clan members guess that Ye Futian came with the emperor of another country.

Many imperial bodyguards appeared to maintain order. They stood around the nine battle platforms. Up ahead, a crowd of powerful cultivators had arrived. Some of the guards cleared the road for them while royals, nobles, and clans stood on the sides to welcome them. From the imperial palace, a group of figures headed their way. The four people at the front of the group seemed to be chatting happily, as if they were the best of friends. The four of them had a certain aura around them. In the blink of an eye, the noisy area quieted down and everyone paid undivided attention to the group approaching. They knew that Emperor Luo was in the group but who were the other three?

The four figures arrived at the platforms and sat down in their own respective seats. Their status seemed to higher than people expected.

"Today is the beginning of the Nandou Nation's Tingfeng Banquet. I have specially invited the emperors of the Cangye Kingdom, the Yunchu Nation, and the Yan Kingdom to come watch the competitions. We shall enjoy the performances put on by the youths of the Nandou Nation. They are our future and I hope that our younger generation cultivators will not disappoint our three guests from afar," smiled Emperor Luo as he introduced his fellow emperors.

Immediately, the area was filled with discussion. Besides the one side of the country that was bordered by the sea, the other three sides were joined with bordering countries. Today, the emperors of those three countries had come to attend the Tingfeng Banquet. This year's Tingfeng Banquet was graced with the presence of four emperors, the four strongest cultivators in the Noble Plane.

Below where the four emperors sat, everyone began to sit down. Beside Emperor Luo, Crown Prince Luo Junlin as well as other princes and princesses had arrived but only Luo Junlin could sit next to the emperor. This was the obvious difference in status among the children of the emperor.

Below the throne were the left and right ministers. Minister Zuo no longer had the same energy in his eyes as he once did. It seemed like he was no longer interested in anything. On the other hand, Minister Hua looked fresh and energetic. Even though things in Donghai City were not a success as planned, to see Minister Zuo fail, was the best thing for him.

Jing Yu, Ye Futian, and the others headed to where Emperor Ye was. As citizens of the Cangye Kingdom, it was only natural that they stayed by the emperor's side.

The Nandou Clan members kept eyes on Ye Futian. When they saw that not only was Ye Futian not avoiding being seen by Emperor Luo and was even headed in his direction, some of them had already made predictions. They shivered at the thought.

"Isn't that Ye Futian and Yu Sheng?" Among the large audience, there were some people who came from Donghai City. They froze at the sight of Ye Futian.

Naturally, the people of Donghai Academy also took notice. Yan Shao frowned. What's going on? His gaze shifted to Emperor Luo and Minister Hua. They did not seem to care at all, as if they already knew Ye Futian would be here.

Zhuo Qing and other students of Donghai Academy were all confused at the sight of Ye Futian. Lin Xiyue had obviously seen him as well. Her beautiful eyes froze on him. She never imagined she would see Ye Futian at the Tingfeng Banquet.

One step at a time, Ye Futian's group arrived at the very front of the area, right below where Emperor Ye was seated. The members of the Nandou Clan felt their hearts skip a beat. It seemed they finally understood. The reason why Ye Futian dared to show up in the Nandou Nation was because he had royalty backing him. The emperor of the Cangye Kingdom. Those from Donghai Academy looked very interested. Their mouths hung open as they watched Ye Futian take his seat slowly.

Ye Futian went to the Cangye Kingdom?

In a little over a month, Ye Futian had escaped from the Nandou Nation to its rival country, the Cangye Kingdom. Furthermore, he had been recognized for his talents by Emperor Ye. Now, he had returned on the day the Tingfeng Banquet began. However, he was not a participant of the banquet but one of the audience.

Zhuo Qing felt disheartened immediately after seeing Ye Futian. Zhuo Qing was here to participate in the banquet and did not even know if he would even be able to impress with his performance but then, there was Ye Futian. He was already seated by the emperor, though not Emperor Luo.

Yan Shao glanced at Zhuo Qing who was beside him. Then, he turned to another person and said, "Tianhao, that's the person you've always wanted to meet. Full Attribute genius with twin spirits, Ye Futian. Do you think you can defeat him?"

Yun Tianhao stared at Ye Futian. In reality, he had taken notice of Ye Futian very early on. It was because they knew each other, but that was when they were younger. They battled once at Qingzhou Academy. As a top student of Heiyan Academy, Yun Tianhao lost to Ye Futian. After that, Yun Tianhao left Qingzhou City in pursuit of experience and better education. So, at the beginning of this year, he was admitted into Donghai Academy. His arrival shook up the whole school.

Then, he heard of another person who left a deep impression on the students of Donghai Academy. Ye Futian—a name that he kept engraved in his brain.

"I will defeat him," said Yun Tianhao. Full Attribute and twin spirits? So, this was his true gift.

Seated below Emperor Luo, Minister Zuo first stared at Ye Futian and then at Emperor Ye. He felt disappointed.

After their trip to Qingzhou City together, Minister Zuo showed great interest in Ye Futian. It was not only for himself but for the royal Luo family as well. However, it was impossible to know what the emperor was thinking. The royal family actually got the idea that Minister Zuo wanted to revolt against them. They believed that Ye Futian was fated to become emperor of the country and was a threat to their family. Thus, an imperial order was sent to Donghai City. None of these events could be undone. As for Minister Zuo himself, the emperor lost trust in him because he insisted on rushing to help Ye Futian in Donghai City. If Minister Zuo was Emperor Luo, he would do anything to kill Ye Futian right now. Even if Emperor Ye would get mad and kill a lot of people, it would still be better than the downfall of the royal family. But Emperor Luo would never do that. Although Emperor Luo believed in fate and Minister Zuo's prophecies, he would not trust them fully. Emperor Luo was very headstrong and believed that as an emperor and a powerful cultivator in the Noble Plane, he could easily change fate.

Obviously, Minister Zuo was not going to attempt to persuade Emperor Luo. He wouldn't do it even if he could. He was not going to come up with anymore plans for Emperor Luo. Despite this, Minister Zuo knew, he would never be able to leave. Even if the emperor was not going to give him anything to do anymore, he would also never let him go. The reason the emperor has not yet killed Minister Zuo was because he did not have a crime to accuse him of. The minister had recruited and bred many talented officers for Emperor Luo. If he killed Minister Zuo without reason, it would be poorly received by the emperor's subordinates.

"I heard that the Cangye Kingdom's Fenghua Banquet ended not too long ago. These should be the ones from the Fenghua Rank, correct?" Emperor Chu of the Yunchu Nation asked with a smile as he looked at Ye Futian and the group.

"They are the top ten. My goddaughter had other business and could not join us," answered Emperor Ye. He returned a smile.

"In my Yan Kingdom, all those with outstanding gifts and high cultivation have the chance of being recognized by me. Some are even made lords or ministers. It has been like that for generations now. This is a policy that everyone agrees on. My people have the utmost trust in our royal family. To this day, as long as there is a brilliant person, they would make themselves known to me. There is no need for us to hold some boring banquet. I've always been curious. Your countries hold these events once every couple of years. Does it actually help to pick out brilliant individuals?" said the emperor of the Yan Kingdom. He looked at the group of people seated below Emperor Ye.

His words also included Emperor Luo who was holding the Tingfeng Banquet, but it did not seem like Emperor Luo minded. He smiled lightly and replied, "Every country has their own way of doing things. What matters is that we all do it for the same reason. I invited you all here today, so we'll just have to wait and see if some outstanding young cultivators will appear today. And, all of you have brought some younger generation cultivators along. If interested, you can tell them to give it a try as well. I don't mind," Emperor Luo continued.

The people that the emperors of the Yunchu Nation and the Yan Kingdom brought along were indeed younger generation cultivators. They were all people their country had high hopes in. They had been brought to attend the Tingfeng Banquet to check out the genius cultivators of other countries. noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

As of now, the Tingfeng Banquet had not begun. Nobody knew what kinds of outstanding individuals would appear. But Ye Futian and the others had already piqued the interest of the cultivators from the two other foreign countries. From time to time, they would turn their gazes over to the group from the Cangye Kingdom.

Just then, Emperor Luo stood up. To everyone in the large area, he said, "Today is the start of the Tingfeng Banquet. Four emperors have gathered to observe the event. Starting from now the stage is yours. I look forward to all your performances!"

The Legend of Futian - Chapter 130: Take Ye Futian Down

As the dragon came closer to the palace of the Nandou Nation, a line of figures flew over. The dragon roared ferociously.

"Stop!" Emperor Ye said. Then the dragon halted.

Those comers bowed and said, "Your Majesty!"

"What's the matter?" the emperor asked.

"We were ordered by our emperor to welcome you. The accommodation has been arranged for you," the man said.

"Lead the way," Emperor Ye said lightly. The other nodded and walked in front, leading the way. Soon, they arrived at a giant palace near the imperial palace. Though the two nations were rivals, courtesy was necessary since the emperor was invited here. Everything in the palace for the stay had been arranged well for them. Since Emperor Ye was the emperor of the Cangye Kingdom, only people from the Cangye Kingdom could share the palace with him.

"Ye Futian, come with me. Emperor Luo won't hurt you but don't leave the palace for safety reasons. If you really have to go out for some reason, let Jing Yu go with you," Emperor Ye warned Ye Futian. Jing Yu was the emperor's bodyguard. The emperor had assigned Jing Yu many things in his daily life.

"I'll be careful." Ye Futian nodded. Although Emperor Luo wouldn't hurt him in public, there was still the possibility for him to arrange an assassination or kill him by another's hand without any evidence left. Emperor Ye couldn't blame it on him then.

The group settled down in the palace while the outside world was stirred up. The Tingfeng Banquet was to be held the next day. The decennial banquet was more magnificent than the Fenghua Banquet of the Cangye Kingdom. The whole nation paid great attention to it and all the heroes would attend. A sensation was inevitable. Everyone was looking forward to the opening of the Tingfeng Banquet the next day.

One hour later outside the palace, a row of figures strode over and went directly into the palace. The leader was a beautiful woman. She seemed like an unordinary person. Following behind her were her strong bodyguards.

Jing Yu stood before her and said, "This is the Emperor Ye's palace. Any intruders will be killed without pardon."

"I'm looking for Ye Futian." The woman looked up to Jing Yu and Jing Yu suddenly grew hesitant. "Since this is Emperor Ye's palace, what do you think we can do?" the woman continued.

Jing Yu thought for a while then said, "Follow me." He led the way and the woman's people followed behind. They came to a place in the palace where Ye Futian's group lived.

Seeing many people coming over, Lin Yueyao and the others went to Ye Futian's room out of curiosity. Ye Futian sat in the courtyard. When he saw the newcomer, he was stunned.

"Ye Futian, why did you join the Cangye Kingdom?" the woman asked angrily. She seemed to come here for an explanation.

Ye Futian looked up to this beautiful but capricious woman and said indifferently, "Are you talking to me?"

This woman turned out to be the princess of the Nandou Nation, the daughter of Emperor Luo and the sister of the crown prince.

"My teacher gave you the minister's decree and my brother let you be minister but you rejected him," Luo Mengyan said. "My father even conferred you with the study attendant of the crown prince. What did we do to you? Is it just because of Hua Jieyu? Is Hua Jieyu the reason why you joined the Cangye Kingdom?"

"Get out." Ye Futian looked at her coldly. Was this girl stupid? What did they do to him?

You…" Luo Menyan pointed at Ye Futian and shouted, "You are a jerk. I'll kill you!" She pounced forward. Ye Futian stood up and stepped forward too. As if remembering something bad, Luo Mengyan froze in place.

"I'm here to accompany His Majesty, not for recalling past days. Princess, please leave," Ye Futian responded nonchalantly. Only then did people know that this woman was the princess of the Nandou Nation.

Many people looked at Ye Futian curiously. What did this guy do to the princess?

"It's your own choice to betray Nandou Nation, but you shouldn't trouble my teacher. Because of you, my teacher doesn't pay attention to the outside world anymore and even neglects me. It's all because of you!" Luo Mengyan's eyes grew red. Ye Futian was surprised. He didn't mean to trouble Minister Zuo. It could be said that this whole thing was triggered by Minister Zuo but he knew that Minister Zuo was thinking for his good. The emperor's decree should have nothing to do with Minister Zuo. Did the astrologist minister not care about anything anymore?

Ye Futian took out the Decree of the Minister and threw it to Luo Mengyan. "Return it to Minister Zuo and tell him that I won't blame him."

"You won't blame him?" Luo Mengyan took the token and asked indignantly in return.

"You can leave now." Ye Futian was kicking them out.

Luo Mengyan looked at Ye Futian coldly and turned away.

People around the court moved aside but Luo Mengyan stopped and turned around. She asked, "You said that your girlfriend is more beautiful than me? How beautiful is she that you could betray the Nandou Nation for her?"

"You don't deserve to be compared with her," Ye Futian answered indifferently. Luo Mengyan is so naïve. Does she really think that Emperor Luo and the crown prince were thinking for his good? Or maybe it's just hard for her to think of her father and brother as bad people.

Luo Mengyan looked coldly at Ye Futian and left.

After she left, Lin Yueyao asked Ye Futian in confusion, "What have you done to the princess of the Nandou Nation?"

Ye Futian looked at Lin Yueyao and smiled slightly. "Do you want to try?"

Seeing Ye Futian's mean smirk, Lin Yueyao said, "No, thank you."

With that, she left. Bai Qiu and Yu Jiang watched the whole thing silently. As the top beauty of the Cangye Kingdom, Lin Yueyao was always very aloof but she had struck up a conversation with Ye Futian several times. However, Ye Futian just directly ignored this beauty, which annoyed the onlookers very much. The difference between them… But Ye Futian's girlfriend was indeed more beautiful than Lin Yueyao.

"Let's go out for a walk," Zuo Qianfan suggested. All the strong cultivators gathered here in the Nandou Nation. They could go take a look. Since the emperor of the Nandou Nation invited them, he wouldn't stoop so low as to play tricks on them.

"Good idea." Yu Jiang nodded and went out.

Ye Futian didn't go with them but continued his cultivation.

The next morning, people from the Nandou Nation came to the palace and visited Emperor Ye. He went to greet them and Ye Futian's group also showed up. The people from Nandou Nation bowed and said, "My majesty ordered me to invite Your Highness to the imperial palace so that all their majesties can attend the Tingfeng Banquet together."

"What about them?" Emperor Ye asked, looking to Ye Futian's and others.

"Only the emperors have been invited. The rest shall go separately. They can meet Your Majesty in the imperial palace," the man answered and smiled.

Emperor Ye didn't respond but turned to Jing Yu. "You take them there."

"Yes, Your Majesty." Jing Yu nodded. Emperor Ye followed the people and left.

"Let's go," Jing Yu said. Other than him, there were many other strong cultivators of the Cangye Kingdom. The group of people went out and walked directly toward the imperial palace.

Outside the palace, there were people from other kingdoms also moving toward the imperial palace. The Tingfeng Banquet was held outside the north gate of the imperial palace where there was already a sea of people. The number of the attendees of the Tingfeng Banquet was bigger than that of the Fenghua Banquet.

When Ye Futian's people arrived, they were almost submerged by the sea of people. Outside the north gate, there were nine tall platforms erected in a row which was surrounded by a vast open space. The throne and the stands were set opposite the platforms. Ordinary people would not be allowed to enter that area. People from all over the Nandou Nation were gathered here, naturally including the people from the East Sea Prefecture.

The Nandou clan stood in the crowd and watched the throne and the stands in front of platforms where the royal families sat. The Nandou clan could sit there before but at this time, they could only stand in the crowd.

"One month ago, if that thing did not happen, Jieyu would be the crown princess now," a Nandou youth said. "Then we could also sit over there." All of this was destroyed by Ye Futian. noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

"Don't think about it anymore and don't mention Hua Jieyu again," an elder reprimanded. Hua Jieyu was a sinner of the Nandou Nation. They had to cut all ties with Her.

"Okay." That youth nodded and looked at the crowd. The youth would participate in this banquet so every strong cultivator here might be his opponent. He continued to observe and stopped when somewhere. He frowned, looked backward, and found a line of figures.

"Ye Futian?" the youth called. People from the Nandou clan all turned to him.

An elder said, "Nonsense!" How could Ye Futian appear at the Tingfeng Banquet?

"He is there." The youth pointed somewhere with great shock in his eyes. He didn't believe it either but he definitely had seen Ye Futian.

The Nandou clan all looked toward the direction he pointed in and their eyes fell on a handsome figure. Every cultivator of the Nandou clan was stunned and their eyes flashed. Ye Futian dared to attend the Tingfeng Banquet? Did he want to die?

"Go take him down." The strong cultivators from the Nandou clan immediately bolted in that direction. They had never forgotten what had taken place in Donghai City a while ago. Hua Jieyu was taken away and a group of strong cultivators of Nandou clan also disappeared. And Ye Futian was the reason.

"Don't let him go!" a youth shouted, worrying that Ye Futian would mingle within the crowd. This guy is really bold. How dare he come back to where the Tingfeng Banquet is held?

"Take him and give him to the emperor," someone said. He'd even planned how to execute Ye Futian. Ye Futian went against Emperor's order. He was a criminal and must be handed over to Emperor Luo!

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 290: A Draw?

With a gentle shake from Zhang Xuan, the ink on the xuan paper flowed down. The many footsteps left behind by the savage beast were linked together by a dark stroke, forming a painting of haughty and unyielding plum blossoms.

The portion where the ink flowed through formed a black dry tree bark, on which, plum blossoms bloomed sporadically. Looking rather desolate from afar, one could feel bone-chilling intent from the painting, as if the bitter winter had struck.

The location where the savage beast fell formed two glaring boulders, and the marks left behind by its fur formed ridges of differing depths on the surface of the boulder.

Plum blossoms grew from the crevices within the boulders, standing proudly in the frigid weather. Ji Mo gongzi made use of a field of flowers to accentuate the nobility of the peony. On the other hand, these plum blossoms didn't have any other flowers to compare to, but one couldn't help but sense its haughtiness, with nothing that dared to vie with it, that there was no one that did not fear to stand beside it.

Even without the intention to vie for supremacy, it was able to surpass the radiance of all other flowers.

Upon seeing this flower, one could almost see the painter standing lonelily by the edge of the world. So what if they disregard me? So what if they don't understand me? All I desire is to stand proud and remain true to my conscience!

"I... Why am I crying?"

"I feel as though I saw a man uncomprehended by the world, but even so, he continued to step forward bravely, without the slightest intention to retreat!"

"Is this... the third level of painting, Infused Intentions?"

"That must be it! Otherwise, it is impossible for our emotions to resonate with it with just a single glance..."

...

The surroundings fell silent.

In that moment, many people's emotions were influenced by the desolate mood in the painting, and their eyes reddened in agitation.

A painting with high artistic conception is able to influence the state of mind in its viewers. Clearly, this painting is one such masterpiece.

"A painting that was drawn by a savage beast... has reached the third level, Infused Intentions?"

Seeing the crowd being influenced by the desolate beauty of the winter plum blossoms, Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng's mouth quivered, and his body trembled.

Since others were able to tell the level of the painting, naturally, he did so quickly. With just a shake of the painting, the other party was able to turn a nothing into a masterpiece. Not only was the spirit of the painting overwhelming, its artistic conception shone through in an instant.

Even they, as 2-star painters, would need a long period of preparation before they can create a painting of such level.

Yet, for a savage beast to create such a painting by walking a few steps, rolling about, followed by a mere shake...

Even though it happened right before their eyes, they nevertheless couldn't help but suspect that it was a dream.

It was inconceivable.

"The crux to the painting is that final shake!"

Vice Guild Leader Wu contemplated for a moment before saying, "How much ink is left on the xuan paper, how one should shake it, and how much force should one use, one has to take all of these into account to determine the flow of the ink to form the tree branch to finish the painting... One has to imprint and remember all of these details perfectly into mind before one can create this painting. Even the slightest error could spell failure!"

"Indeed. It may seem simple, but it is actually a profound movement. With different ink and paper, the effects would be different. To be able to reach such a state with a mere shake, his eye of discernment and mastery of painting... Even I would be unable to do it..."

Even though he was reluctant to admit it, Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng nodded in agreement.

Previously, it was the savage beast who was in charge of painting; the youngster didn't do anything at all. However, the most important part of the painting was the final shake. It was just like adding the eyes to a painted dragon; with the slightest error, the result would be completely different. If not for Zhang Xuan's perfect control over the final shake, this painting of the third level would be nothing at all.

And for him to find the ideal strength and method to shake off the ink on the painting...

This meant that he had absolute control over the painting! He knew what the product would be, and what level it would reach...

This required a profound understanding of painting! For one to picture what the complete painting would be like down to the minor details... Even their guild leader, a 3-star painter, would be incapable of such a feat!

"This... impossible..."

Upon witnessing the stalk of plum blossoms appear with the shake, Ji Mo gongzi, who was gleefully waiting for Zhang Xuan to make a fool of himself, staggered backward in shock. His face paled and looked as if he were going insane.

The other party had just randomly dipped a savage beast into a pool of ink and threw it on a xuan paper, and it became a painting of the third level...

When did a painting of the third level become so easy to create?

He had worked so hard, to the point that he almost vomited blood, just so that he could refine his painting to reach this level. Yet, the other party easily...

It can’t be that my talents are inferior to a savage beast?

The green-robed attendant who had brought Zhang Xuan in was also yanking at his ears. If not for the inappropriate occasion, he would have gone on a rampage by now.

As an attendant of the Painter Guild, he earned a mere several thousand gold coins a month, and even at best, his wages would only reach ten thousand. Yet, the other party was able to create a painting which was worth several million just by throwing a savage beast on a paper....

The heck!

Why was he working so hard then! If he were to capture the savage beast to draw for him, wouldn't he have long become a millionaire?

The numerous apprentices who carried the tables before also felt tears welling up in their eyes.

Of them, there were those who had spent more than a decade on painting, but even so, their painting could only reach the level of Reality Depiction at best. Spiritual Canvas and Infused Intentions were way out of their reach, and they didn't dare to think about it.

Seeing a savage beast produce a better painting that they could, in that instant, they felt that all of their hard work in the past few years had been... completely useless.

It was already a miracle that they didn't break down on the spot.

"The two vice guild leaders, may I know whether it is my victory or my loss with this painting?" Seeing the painting take the shape as he had planned, Zhang Xuan turned to the two elders with a smile.

It was just as the two vice guild leaders thought, the crux to the painting was his final shake.

Even if he was able to control the savage beast perfectly, how could this create a painting of the third level?

In order to turn the ink-filled paper into a complete painting with his final shake, he had to make use of the ability of the Library of Heaven's Path to avoid all mistakes.

Since there were no mistakes in his movements, it had to be correct.

The timing, the strength, the shaking method, grasping the paper... All of these had to be paid attention to. A single error would cause the entire painting to fall apart.

It was fortunate that he succeeded.

"This..."

The two vice guild leaders glanced at one another.

"Your Winter Plum Blossoms Painting and Painter Ji's Peony Painting have both reached the third level. Even though the two paintings are of completely different style, they are both on the same level. Thus, I announce that..." Hesitating for a moment, Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng declared, "... it is a draw!"

"Draw?"

Zhang Xuan shook his head, although he had expected such a situation.

In terms of quality, his painting was clearly of a much higher standard than Ji Mo gongzi's Peony Painting. However, as their competition had a wager at stake, and the latter would be a future elite of the Painter Guild if he were declared to be the loser, wouldn't that mean that he has to kneel down, apologize, and leave the guild for good?

If that really happened, they would have to lose a valuable talent.

Declaring that it was a draw could avoid offending any of the two parties. In a sense, it was the perfect conclusion.

Of course, this Ji Mo gongzi wouldn't appear as dashing as he was before. Even though it was a draw, it was with a savage beast. In other words, he was no different from a beast... No matter where he went, people would definitely be gossiping about him.

Even so, Zhang Xuan was indifferent to his plight. The other party had it coming.

"A draw? To think that it would be a draw!"

"This is for the best..."

"That's right, it's best not to sully the harmonious spirit among fellow painters..."

...

Hearing the verdict, the crowd broke into a commotion.

"That's good. The two of you are genius painters, so you both should try to get along..."

After the declaration, Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng smiled in an attempt to mediate the conflict. However, Ji Mo gongzi took a deep breath and stepped forward. "Vice guild leaders, hold it for a moment!"

The crowd immediately turned to look at him.

"Everyone has seen the painting just now. The crux of the painting lies in his final shake. If not for that, it wouldn't even reach Reality Depiction, needless to say, Infused Intentions!"

Ji Mo gongzi turned to look at Zhang Xuan and sneered coldly, "That's to say, his drawing was completed with the effort of a human and a beast. It was only with a combined effort from them that they were able to match up to my standard, so how can he be worthy of becoming my equal?"

Everyone was taken aback.

It was obvious that having a savage beast in a painting process would only drag one down. To be capable of creating a painting of Infused Intentions under such circumstances bore testimony to the incredible painting mastery that the other party possessed.

This fact couldn't be any clearer on everyone's mind, yet he dared to spout such words. He has truly thrown away his dignity for this competition.

But even so, there was a sliver of truth to his words. It was indeed a collaboration between Zhang Xuan and the savage beast!

Since this was a competition between Zhang Xuan and Ji Mo, there should just be a single person painting. No one else should be allowed to touch the painting; even a single word of guidance cannot be accepted.

The plum blossoms by the savage beast's footsteps and the tree bark from Zhang Xuan's shake... These two were essential to forming this art piece, and without any of them, it would have been incomplete.

Given that this was a collaboration work against an individual, it was indeed... an infringement of fairness.

"Oh, so you mean that..."

Seeing how shameless the other party was, Zhang Xuan didn't get angry. Instead, he turned to gaze at the person squarely.

"Simple, I've won this competition. Since you have only managed to reach my standard through a collaboration, your skills can only be said to be inferior to mine!" Ji Mo gongzi smiled coldly.

"Painter Ji, a draw isn't a bad conclusion either..."

Not expecting the other party to be so lacking in sportsmanship, Vice Guild Leader Wu felt rather displeased.

Can a savage beast really know how to paint?

It is clearly that it was through the sole efforts of the painter that a painting of such quality could be created.

Even though it could be said to be a collaboration by a human and a beast, it was due to the incredible painting mastery of this youngster that this painting could reach such a level. We are already giving you leeway to back down by declaring a draw, yet you don't know how to be contented?

Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng was also incensed by the other party's actions. Just as he was about to speak up, Zhang Xuan shook his hands casually and looked over with a faint smile, "Ji gongzi's words make sense. Since you believe that this is a collaboration between me and the savage beast, we'll take it as that. However, since you don't consider this a draw, I would like to ask... under what kind of circumstances will you be willing to admit defeat?"

"Want me to admit defeat?"

Ji Mo gongzi sneered coldly, "I am a fair person, so I will not use your collaboration as a reason to proclaim my victory. If your painting had reached the fourth level of Breathtaking Verisimilitude, I would have admitted my defeat immediately. However, it's a pity... that it isn't! Given that your collaboration has barely reached my level, how can I consider this a draw?"

"Your words are logical, I can't find any words to refute them!" Zhang Xuan didn't seem to be vexed by the other party's words. Instead, he shook his head with a smile.

"Since you've nothing to say, just admit defeat..."

Ji Mo gongzi's eyes shone brightly. Just as he was about to continue speaking, the edges of the lips of the youngster before him curled up, and he looked at him pitifully, "Are you that certain that... this painting has only reached the third level?"

"What do you mean?"

Ji Mo gongzi glanced at the xuan paper on the table. As it was just a moment ago that the painting had been completed, the ink on it had yet to dry. The painting was outstanding, but it was clear that it had only reached the third level. Thus, he sneered coldly, "Stop putting on an act here. If you wish to admit defeat, hurry up. Even if you were to argue about it the entire day, it's impossible for the painting to reach the fourth level..."

"That might not necessarily be the case..."

Zhang Xuan calmly turned around and said, "Vice Guild Leader Wu, I've something which I need to trouble you with!"

"Feel free to speak!" Vice Guild Leader Wu nodded.

"May I know if there are any fire torches in the guild? May I borrow one?" Zhang Xuan asked.

The Painter Guild used Night Illumination Pearls as the source of light for its interiors. Its radiance was gentle as bright as the morning sky.

But despite the brightness, it didn't provide any warmth. Furthermore, it was in the middle of the autumn, and the room was slightly cold. As everyone present was a cultivator, they didn't pay the matter any heed.

"There is!"

Vice Guild Leader Wu glanced at the youngster doubtfully for a moment before waving his hands. An apprentice stepped out from the room, and soon, returned with a fire torch in his hands.

"Bring it to the painting to warm it!" Instead of receiving the fire torch, Zhang Xuan instructed the apprentice.

"Yes!"

The apprentice glanced at Vice Guild Leader Wu, and upon seeing him nod, walked to the Winter Plum Blossoms Painting.

Under the heat of the fire, the wet ink began to coagulate.

Hong long!

Under the warmth of the torch, a change occurred in the ink, inducing a vastly different sensation in the painting from before.

A slight trace of white appeared in the four corners of the inky black flower buds, as though the flower was beginning to bloom. For a moment, the crowd could smell the aroma of plum blossoms in the air. noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

Wu wu wu!

A few butterflies flew into the room from nowhere and landed on the painting, as if they were attracted by the aroma of flowers, then lingering on the surface for an extremely long time.

"Is this... Breathtaking Verisimilitude?"

"How is this possible?"

...

Everyone's body shuddered. They felt that they were about to go insane.

Before the ink dried, it was clearly only at the level of Infused Intentions. Yet, the moment it dried, it became a fourth level painting. How did this situation happen?

However, if the painting hadn't reached the level of Breathtaking Verisimilitude, how could those butterflies be attracted to it? And how could they catch the faint aroma of plum blossoms in the air?

Deng deng deng deng!

Ji Mo gongzi staggered backward with a pale face.

He had just claimed that he would admit defeat if the other party's painting reached the fourth level, and never in his dreams did he expect that it would become one the moment it was dried with a burning torch...

Are you for real?

He has examined the painting multiple times to ascertain that it was only at Infused Intentions. How could the heat from a fire torch raise, so easily, the level of the painting?

"This can't be true... You must have cheated!"

Shaking his head vehemently, he was unable to believe the sight before him. He howled in a frenzy.

"Cheated?"

Zhang Xuan shook his head. His gaze swept through the surroundings and finally, fell on Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng. "Vice guild leader, are you able to tell the reason?"

"I can roughly see a thing or two, but I'm unsure whether my judgment is correct!"

With a grim face, Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng spoke of his conjecture, "The savage beast which did the painting just now is known as the Verdant Alacrity Beast, and it likes to build its nest in the mud. On the other hand, our ink originates from the Black Inkstone and mud carries substances that neutralize the Black Inkstone. That's why, upon the heat of the fire torch, the color of the ink became lighter."

"The Verdant Alacrity Beast that was brought here is likely to have just been caught, so there are traces of mud still on its body. The mud is mixed into the ink ground from the Black Inkstone, and after some heating, the effects were displayed immediately, creating the sight of the flowers blooming, thus... inducing a rise in the level of the painting!"

"To be able to do this requires a profound understanding of beast taming, as well as the properties of the various materials. You..."

At this point, Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng stared at Zhang Xuan with eyes filled with disbelief.

The sight before seemed magical; a painting of the third level was brought up by an entire level just using the heat from a torch. However, it was actually a fusion of numerous knowledge to create that exact outcome.

In fact, even without the heat of the torch, this painting would automatically rise to the level of Breathtaking Verisimilitude in a day's time.

And to do this, one has to have a deep understanding of beast taming, the properties of the substances involved... And numerous other matters. Everything must be fully within grasp, and this youngster who hasn't even reached twenty yet has managed to achieve this...

The heck!

Is it the world that’s mad, or have I gone mad?

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 289: Painting Through a Savage Beast

After the uproar that Zhang Xuan created with the ladies, the crowd had cleared the area around him, causing him and the attendant to stand out with exceptional conspicuity.

While everyone was busy placing their bids, the two of them were chatting incessantly about something else, and upon witnessing this, Ji Mo gongzi felt displeased and disrespected. Then, when he listened carefully to their conversation, it turned out that they were belittling his work. How could he tolerate this? Thus, he bellowed at them immediately.

They were clearly challenging his prestige and authority.

He had thought that the other party would apologize immediately upon being questioned like that, but contrary to his expectations, the other party spoke such words in return.

A toy which any apprentice painter can create...

Becoming infuriated, his face turned crimson red immediately.

"What did you say?"

Clenching his fists tightly, a surge of power gushed out from him, causing the air in the surroundings to howl. He was actually a Pixue realm expert!

To be able to attain Pixue realm below twenty years of age, it seemed that this Ji Mi gongzi's talent in cultivation was no way inferior to his flair for painting.

The green-robed attendant didn't expect Zhang Xuan to say such words, and his face paled immediately.

Putting aside the fact that the Ji Clan was one of the Three Great Clans in the capital, this Ji gongzi himself was a highly respected 1-star painter with incredible rallying abilities. Provoking him like that... Wasn't that equivalent to courting death?

Angering the other party and receiving a beating were no big deals, but it was highly likely that Zhang Xuan would be banned from the Painter Guild. If so, he wouldn't be able to buy a single painting no matter how much money he offered.

"Gongzi, calm down. It's best that... you apologize and give in..."

He tugged on the clothes of the young man beside him involuntarily and sent a telepathic message.

After which, the young man before him nodded and spoke, "Oh, it's my mistake to say that any apprentice painter can create such a painting!"

"That's more like it..."

Hearing Zhang Xuan admit his mistake, the attendant was just about to heave a sigh of relief when he heard the second half of his words. His eyes shot upward and he nearly passed out from shock.

"... This is an insult to apprentice painters! Given the standard of this painting, even a random savage beast is able to do better than that! Five million you say? I won't even buy it for five gold coins!" Zhang Xuan uttered.

He didn't wish to cause trouble, but that didn't mean that he would allow anyone to climb all over his head.

Trying to take advantage of me? You must be joking!

It's already good enough that I'm not trying to take advantage of you.

While the other party was drawing, without using the Library of Heaven's Path, he was able to see seven to eight flaws with just his own judgment. He wouldn't want this mediocre drawing even if the other party were to give it to him for free. To pay for it... You must be pulling my leg!

Savage beast? Five gold coins?

Zhang Xuan spoke calmly and the crowd became tongue-tied, beginning to stare at him as if they were looking at a monster.

To insult a painter right at home in the Painter Guild, where did you get such confidence?

"You..."

Ji Mo gongzi was so angry that he nearly vomited blood.

Even a random savage beast would be able to do better than him... Won't buy it even for five gold coins...

The other party was clearly doubting his professionalism!

"Alright, there's nothing much to see about this clown. Let's go up and take a look at the other paintings!" Disregarding the infuriated Ji Mo, Zhang Xuan turned around impassively and prepared to leave.

Even though he had just arrived at Tianwu Kingdom and didn't possess any standing in the capital, he was someone who was about to take the master teacher examination and should carry a befitting disposition.

If the other party were to dare to say such words to him after he becomes a master teacher, he would lash him to death on the spot instead of wasting any breath on him!

This is the authority and power unique to a master teacher.

Master teachers mustn't be sullied, and those who dare to desecrate one has to die!

He was just a boastful painter and yet he dared to force a sale upon him. Zhang Xuan was already behaving very respectfully to him, having merely criticized his piece.

"Hold it right there!"

Seeing how that fellow intended to leave straight after humiliating him, Ji Mo gongzi's face warped in anger and he almost flew into a rage.

However, even though he was infuriated, he didn't lose his rationality. Taking a deep breath, he suppressed his anger and stared at Zhang Xuan coldly.

"Since you spoke so confidently, you must be rather confident in your knowledge of painting. Then, do you dare to compete with me?"

"Compete?"

"That's right! We'll start painting simultaneously and after we're done, we'll find someone to appraise our work. The person whose painting is superior and attains the higher level wins! The losing side will have to kneel down and apologize, and swear to never enter the Painter Guild ever again..."

Ji Mo gongzi's eyes were filled savagery, "How about it, do you dare to take on the challenge?"

"Start painting simultaneously? Find someone to appraise our work? Are you certain?"

Seeing how confident the other party was, Zhang Xuan shook his head.

He didn't mind competing with the other party. In any case, he had nothing else to do today apart from exploring the Painter Guild and, from the looks of it, the other party wouldn't let this matter slip if he were to reject his challenge.

"Why? Do you not dare to take me on?" Ji Mo gongzi sneered.

"That's not it, it's just that..." Placing his hands behind his back, Zhang Xuan looked at him with a helpless expression, "I'm afraid that... you'll cry!"

Gudong!

Everyone fell to the ground, the entire room falling into silence.

Huala!

Then, the entire room burst into an uproar.

"What in the world are you bragging about?"

"Ji Mo gongzi is an official painter! How dare a nobody like you spout such arrogant words!"

"Compete with him! Let him know the capability of a true master painter!"

...

The ladies present stared at Zhang Xuan furiously. With arms akimbo, each and every one of them felt a strong urge to tear Zhang Xuan into pieces.

We’ve seen arrogant people, but we’ve never seen such an arrogant person. You dare say that Ji Mo gongzi will cry?

Do you know who he is?

He is the first person in Tianwu Royal City to pass the painter examination before having reached twenty years of age, a person who possesses unparalleled talent in painting...

Afraid that he will cry?

Who do you think you are?

The guild leader of the Painter Guild?

"You..."

Ji Mo gongzi's body swayed, and blood nearly burst forth from his mouth.

The other party's words were way too vicious!

He knew that the more he quarreled with the other party, the more likely he would die from anger. Thus, he waved his hands and said, "Then let's not waste any time then, let our skills do the speaking!"

After which, as if he was afraid that the other party might back out, he turned around and issued instructions to an attendant behind him immediately.

The attendant then turned around and left, returning with two elders in no time.

"This is Vice Guild Leader Cheng and Vice Guild Leader Wu. They are 2-star grandmaster painters, so there shouldn't be a problem having them act as the judges, right?"

Hearing that the two were vice guild leaders, Zhang Xuan directed his attention to them immediately.

These two seemed to be around Master Lu Chen’s age and snowy beards hung on their chins. Perhaps due to years of immersion in painting, both of them carried unique and refined dispositions.

"I'm fine with it!"

It made no difference to Zhang Xuan whoever the judge was. Thus, he nodded to indicate his approval.

"Do the two of you wish to compete?" Walking forward, Vice Guild Leader Cheng asked with a frown.

The attendant had explained to them about the conflict on their way here; a youngster of unknown background suddenly appeared and spoke arrogantly before Ji Mo, resulting in a conflict between them... The two vice guild leaders were curious to see how that youngster could be so confident.

"Yes!" Ji Mo gongzi bowed.

"May I ask from whom did you learn painting?"

Vice Guild Leader Cheng turned to Zhang Xuan and asked.

"I am acquainted with master and grandmaster painters in the thirteen surrounding kingdoms, so I might just happen to know your teacher!"

"I merely possess an interest in painting, I do not have a teacher!" Zhang Xuan said.

His understanding of painting came from books, so it was true that he did not have a teacher.

"An interest? Do not have a teacher?"

Both Vice Guild Leader Cheng and Vice Guild Leader Wu exchanged gazes, and they felt baffled at the situation.

Even though painting ranked among the lowest in the Nine Upper Paths, it was impossible to learn true skills without guidance from a teacher.

The other party dares to compete with a 1-star painter just because he is somewhat interested in painting?

Is he unaware of a master painter’s capabilities, or did his arrogance blind his rationality?

"Painting is an elegant art and such a contest would be a breach of decorum. If the both of you have any arguments, it would be best to settle it privately. There's no need to settle it through a competition!"

After hesitating for a moment, Vice Guild Leader Wu tried to persuade the duo.

Painting is a refined activity, and using it for a competition is unbefitting of a refined painter.

"I beseech the two grandmasters to persuade us no further. Academics get to know each other through literature. On top of that, I believe that there's a need to uphold our pride as painters. This fellow dared to insult painting, if I do not have a showdown with him today, I will not be able to lying down!"

Before Zhang Xuan could speak, Ji Mo gongzi had already spoken up.

This fellow claimed that even apprentice painters and savage beasts could do better than him. If he didn't teach him a lesson today, his reputation would fall to the gutters, and he would be too embarrassed to meet anyone in the future.

"This..." Seeing that Ji Mo was adamant on the matter, the two vice guild leaders turned to Zhang Xuan, only to see him nod his head casually. "If he wishes to compete, so be it!"

"Alright then!"

Seeing that both parties had agreed to the competition and that it was impossible to persuade them otherwise, the two vice guild leaders could only agree to the matter. "Since the both of you have decided to compete with one another, we’ll serve as judges then! The rules are simple; the time limit is two hours, and the person whose painting is at the higher level will be declared victorious! If both paintings are of the same level, the one who took the least time will be the winner."

There's nothing such as superior or inferior in art, and everyone has different tastes and interest. Thus, it is impossible to decide which artwork is 'superior' or 'inferior'.

However, since there were different levels to painting, they could use it as a benchmark to assess their painting skills objectively.

"Let's begin!"

With the rules set and no disagreements from both parties involved in the competition, a few apprentice painters began to lay out two tables with brushes, ink slabs, and paper.

"There are no restrictions to the topic, feel free to paint anything you desire to!"

Seeing that the both of them had taken their positions, Vice Guild Leader Wu said.

"Yes!"

Ji Mo gongzi nodded his head.

Since there were no restrictions, he could choose to paint what he was best at.

The mountains and streams that he drew before were not what he was good at. If he were to draw what he was the most adept in, he would surely be able to produce a painting of the third level.

He had just become a 1-star painter and was looking for an opportunity to increase his reputation when this fellow appeared from nowhere. The idiom 'delivering a pillow when one is craving for a nap' fitted the situation perfectly, Zhang Xuan's appearance was simply too timely!

Otherwise, Ji Mo wouldn't have gone to the extent of blowing the matter up.

"Alright, since there aren’t any objections, you may begin now!"

Since the duo wasn't objectionable to the rules, Vice Guild Leader Wu waved his hands, gesturing for them to start.

"Alright!"

Ji Mo gongzi harrumphed coldly. With a swift movement, he picked up the brush, dipped it in the ink, and began drawing.

This time, in order to obtain a more convincing victory, he chose to use plenty of flamboyant techniques, winning him the loud cheers from the crowd.

"Do all of you think that Ji Mo gongzi will win?"

"Of course! Ji gongzi is the most talented painter in the younger generation. Even the guild leader has said that it is highly possible that he will take over his position in the future. How can he possibly lose to a countryside bumpkin?"

"That's true..."

"Un? Ji gongzi has already begun drawing, but why is that countryside bumpkin still standing idly? It can't be that his words are louder than his actions and that he doesn't know how to paint at all?"

"That may really be true... Look, he is totally motionless..."

Mesmerized by Ji Mo gongzi's graceful brush strokes, everyone had been discussing Ji Mo gongzi excitedly, and only at this moment did they realize that the youngster he was competing against was standing motionlessly on the spot, his expression seeming to indicate a dilemma within.

"Is there anything wrong? Do you have any problem that you find hard to voice out? Feel free to speak."

Seeing him in such a state, Vice Guild Leader Wu asked.

"Oh, it's like that..."

Zhang Xuan scratched his head in embarrassment, "I've been thinking about it. If I were to simply paint and win him like that, I would be bullying him. Since I claimed that even a savage beast can paint better than him, may I ask... are there any savage beasts here? Can I borrow one to use? Rest assured, after it's done with the painting... I'll return it to you!"

"What?"

"He intends to use a savage beast to... compete against Ji Mo gongzi?"

"The heck, surely I am hearing things!"

Everyone was dumbfounded, and they stared at the man as if he were a lunatic.

Even though savage beasts possess intelligence, it is insignificant in comparison to human thoughts. As such, it is impossible for a savage beast to be capable of painting.

Pitting a savage beast against an official painter in a painting contest...

How is that possible!

You must be pulling our legs!

Even if they weren’t here, being able to see and hear it in person, they would have thought that the fellow was insane.

In fact, even though they were actually here in person witnessing the situation, they were doubting his sanity.

While everyone was just shocked, Ji Mo gongzi's body was already convulsing. Ten thousand imaginary divine beasts flew around his head and he nearly threw his brush at the other party's face.

Finding a savage beast to compete with him...

The heck, do you mean that I am not worthy of being your opponent?

He thought that he would be able to humiliate the other party once the results were out, but... the painting had barely started, and the other party's contempt had by now seared his skin.

If that fellow were to really win with a savage beast, doesn’t that mean that I am inferior to a beast?

Even I win, it would only mean that I am better than a beast...

The heck!

Ji Mo gongzi felt blood welling up in his mouth and that he was about to break down.

"Cough cough, even though savage beasts possess intelligence, they are incapable of painting. Are you... certain of this?" Vice Guild Leader Wu was also astonished at the youngster's request. He couldn't help but ask him once more.

He had seen people request for a longer duration, better quality paper, a better standard of ink... Of all of these innumerable requests, he had never come across someone requesting for a savage beast!

Are you sure this isn't a joke?

"Yes, I am certain!"

Zhang Xuan nodded his head with a serious expression.

He could easily paint a fifth level work. If he were to take the painter examination, even if it wasn't sufficient for him to reach 3-star, he would be a 2-star pinnacle at the minimum.

With such a capability, for him to compete with a young fellow who had just passed the 1-star painter examination would be akin to bullying the weak.

Even if he were to win, it wouldn't be honorable!

However, even after he had affirmed his request, the other party didn't make a move. Therefore, Zhang Xuan asked, "Can it be that... there aren’t any savage beasts here? Or is looking for a savage beast too difficult a request?"

After all, this is the Painter Guild, not the Beast Hall. Can it be that savage beasts are difficult to find in Tianwu Royal City?

"Difficult..."

Everyone staggered.

This isn't the main point at all!

The main point is... how can a savage beast be capable of drawing?

"Arrogant!"

While Vice Guild Leader Wu was at a loss, Vice Guild Leader Cheng's face darkened, and he flung his sleeves angrily.

He had immersed himself in painting for several decades now and he was well aware of the difficulty of this art. To wish to outdo an official painter at painting using a savage beast?

That was an incredibly arrogant thought.

Initially, he thought that this would be a valiant battle between two outstanding youths, but to think that the youngster before him would be such a conceited fellow!

"Why not... I go out and look around? I know of a wild savage beast in the vicinity..."

Recognizing the persisting awkwardness, the green-robed attendant hesitated for a moment before speaking up.

"Go on!"

Zhang Xuan gestured.

"Yes!" The green-robed attendant rushed out immediately and in a short while, came running back with a savage beast in his embrace.

Rather than a savage beast, it was more appropriate to call it an undomesticated animal. Similar to dogs and cats that households kept, it didn't possess any fighting prowess. Oblivious to the reason why it was brought here, it had a confused look on its face.

Upon receiving the savage beast, Zhang Xuan took a quick look at it. Even though he wasn't very satisfied, the competition had long begun, and there wasn't time for him to be picky.

"Time to try out the abilities of a poison master!"

With the savage beast in his embrace, Zhang Xuan thought.

As for why he dared to make such a bet with his opponent, in claiming that he would use a savage beast to create his painting, it wasn't because he was arrogant, but rather because he had aces up his sleeves.

Even if a savage beast is tamed, it is impossible for it to obey exactly the thoughts of its owner. If one desires to create a painting that surpasses the second level, he cannot place his hopes on something beyond his control. One has to have absolute control over the painting process.

As a 2-star beast tamer, it would have been impossible for him to control the actions of a savage beast precisely. However, after the trip to the Poison Hall, the situation had changed.

After ten days of studying in the Poison Hall, not only did Zhang Xuan manage to cultivate the Poison Body, his mastery of poison had also reached the level of a 2-star poison master.

More importantly, he had also gained an additional use for the Heaven's Path zhenqi. He is now able to convert it into tonic with a single thought and transform it into deadly poison with another.

The Heaven's Path zhenqi happened to be the ideal tool that allows him to control movements of a savage beast precisely using just his mind.

Stretching out his hands, he sent a surge of Heaven's Path zhenqi into the meridians of the savage beast that was in his embrace. Then, with a simple will, he distributed it into the various acupoints all over its body immediately.

"Time to start!"

Now that the preparations were in place, he had the savage beast roll around in the ink before casually throwing it onto the large piece of xuan paper.

"Is he really having the savage beast draw for him?"

"I would like to see what kind of painting he can create!"

"I've seen this savage beast and it does not possess any intelligence. What kind of painting can it possibly draw?"

...

Seeing that Zhang Xuan wasn't joking and that he had soaked the savage beast in ink and had it step onto the xuan paper, the crowd burst into an uproar.

To have a savage beast paint...

And win against an official painter?

Brother, are you daydreaming, or are you just pulling a prank?

"Preposterous!"

Vice Guild Leader Cheng's face steeled.

Painting is a respectable and refined occupation; to actually call a savage beast splashing ink around as painting is clearly an act of provocation.

He had decided to chase this fellow out the moment the competition ended.

He couldn't allow the art of painting to be insulted like that.

Feeling displeased within, he was glaring at Zhang Xuan in fury when Vice Guild Leader Wu’s words rang beside his ear.

"Something is wrong. Cheng Feng, look!"

"What's wrong?" He turned around to look at his old friend, only to see him staring at the youngster's painting in bewilderment.

Frowning, Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng turned his head over as well, and with a single glance, he became stupefied.

"How... How is this possible?"

The savage beast on the xuan paper hesitated for a moment before beginning to saunter on the paper, leaving behind one plum flower after another in its wake.

There wasn't a specific pattern to those plum flower marks, but they went along a straight line and seemed as if they were held hanging by a formless vine.

Shouldn't an unintelligent savage beast, who was splashed with ink all over, run away the moment it was released? Why would it walk on the paper slowly without the slightest repetition in its footsteps?

"It's a type of beast taming technique!"

Vice Guild Leader Wu's voice sounded in his ears.

"That's right!"

Hearing his old friend's words, Cheng Feng came to a realization.

Not only did the savage beast not escape or run about, it walked in a straight line on the paper. This showed that it was listening to someone's orders, and to be able to get a savage beast to obey his commands immediately... It had to be an extremely advanced beast taming technique!

Can it be that... this extremely young fellow is a beast tamer?

"However, so what if he has the ability to tame a savage beast? No matter how neat these footsteps are, it isn't a painting. Naturally, it is impossible for it to reach the level of Reality Depiction and, not to mention, Spiritual Canvas."

Cheng Feng was surprised but he shook his head nevertheless.

Even though Reality Depiction was merely the first level of painting, countless apprentices and painting fanatics had to be locked out from its gates for several years, and sometimes, even several decades before it could be achieved.

So what if that youngster can control movements of a savage beast using techniques belonging to beast tamers?

Savage beasts being savage beasts, it is impossible for them to devote any emotion or artistic conception to the painting. It is just like controlling a puppet, it is impossible to instill spirit into the work!

"You're right!" Vice Guild Leader nodded in agreement.

He was also curious what the fellow was up to.

Padah!

Just as they were pondering what kind of painting the youngster would show them, the savage beast, which was advancing on the xuan paper, fell down abruptly and the ink on its body blotted an area of the paper black.

"Seems like we had been overthinking..."

Initially, the plum blossoms that the savage beast created with its footstep looked satisfactory, appearing to be a proper piece of painting. Even though Cheng Feng didn't think that the youngster could achieve much with the savage beast, it was nonetheless a novelty. However, with the fall, the entire painting was ruined immediately.

That was to say... the painting had been turned into scrap.

"Indeed, how is it possible that a savage beast can create a painting?" Cheng Feng harrumphed.

"You're right!" Vice Guild Leader Wu agreed.

Shaking their heads, they chose to ignore this attention-seeking fellow and turned to Ji Mo gongzi instead.

As expected of a genius. Even though he was infuriated just a moment ago, he hadn’t allowed those emotions to interfere with his painting. With swift brushstrokes, the outline of the painting was already in sight.

It was a peony that stood proudly amidst a cluster of flowers. It carried a powerful disposition which made the other flowers pale in comparison, resembling a monarch.

"The King of Flowers is the peony, and his painting has brought out the refined and prideful nature of the peony that causes surrounding floras to bow in deference. His painting will probably attain the third level, Infused Intentions, the moment it is completed!"

Cheng Feng's eyes lit up.

"That's right. Ji Mo is indeed a promising bud. As long as we do a good job grooming him, we might have a legendary figure emerge in our guild!"

Vice Guild Master Wu nodded in agreement.

As 2-star painters, they were well-versed in paintings. Although Ji Mo gongzi's work had yet to be completed, they were nevertheless able to tell a thing or two just from its outline.

This painting was clearly of a much higher grade than that of the Breeze By the Mountain and Stream, the conception behind the painting being at a much higher level as well. As long as there weren’t any large deviations, it would surely reach the level of Infused Intentions.

Even if it were the most basic standard under Infused Intentions, to be able to create a painting of the third level despite having just become a 1-star painter showed that Ji Mo gongzi was indeed talented.

"Look, Ji Mo gongzi's painting is about to be done..."

"What a beautiful peony, I like this painting!"

"This is too beautiful..."

...

The two vice guild leaders were still conversing when Ji Mo gongzi had already begun the final touches on his painting. His brush flew about the xuan paper, and an alluring peony appeared before everyone's eyes.

Hu!

Then, with a light jerk of his hands, the last stroke was completed.

Huala!

The moment the painting was completed, a sweet scent of flowers struck everyone's nose, as if they had stepped into a garden of flowers. A single peony stood out proudly from amidst the crowd, outshining every single other surrounding flora.

"This is a painting of the third level!"

"It has reached the level of Infused Intentions, incredible!"

"I've already said so, how can Ji Mo gongzi possibly lose..."

...

Most of the people present were either here to purchase paintings or were a fan of Ji Mo, and naturally, would have some understanding of paintings as well. They might not have been able to estimate the level of the painting when he was still working on it, but the effects that occurred upon completion allowed them to recognize it immediately.

Even a 1-star painter would be incapable of producing a painting of the level of Infused Intentions every single time he paints.

It was even rarer to see one being created in a public setting and, furthermore, in a competition.

"I've completed my painting!"

Throwing his brush aside, Ji Mo gongzi looked at his completed work and nodded in satisfaction.

The best way to win a lady’s fancy was to paint flowers. The peony was the king of the flowers, so he spent a huge effort to practice it. He might not be able to ensure that any other of his works would be able to reach the third level, but he had practiced painting this for more than a thousand times. If he were to paint it, nine out of ten times, it would be a painting of Infused Intentions.

Clearly, it didn't disappoint him this time as well, having reached the level he desired.

Even some 1-star painters who had immersed themselves in painting for more than a decade would find it hard to produce a painting of the third level. To have produced a painting of this level so easily despite just becoming a 1-star painter, regardless of the duel’s outcome, his goal of making a name for himself had already been accomplished.

"You acted so arrogantly just now, let's see what you are capable of painting."

Harrumphing coldly, Mo Ji put down his artwork and turned toward Zhang Xuan.

At this moment, the savage beast finally jumped off the xuan paper.

Because the savage beast was soaked with excessive ink, the painting, from the plum blossom footsteps which the savage beast imprinted, to the blotch caused by its fall, was smudged heavily. Even until now, the ink had yet to dry and the entire piece was glistening with ink water.

Especially for the patch which was created due to the fall earlier, because of the savage beast’s tough fur, a chaotic mess was created.

"Is this the savage beast painting you spoke of? Haha! How hilarious!"

Ji Mo gongzi nearly laughed his lower jaw off.

He thought that since the other party acted so high and mighty just now, he would really be able to create some impressive painting through a savage beast. Yet, to think that this was all he was capable of...

Do you call this a painting?

Even random flinging of ink onto a paper would be much better than this!

"What nonsense is he painting? To dare to compete with Ji gongzi, he sure is laughable!"

"If you call this a painting, won’t I be considered a painter as well?"

"Ignorant fellow, let's see how you embarrass yourself later on!"

Hearing Ji Mo's laughter, the crowd turned their gazes to Zhang Xuan, and a scornful expression appeared on their faces.

Can the random spilling of ink be considered a painting?

What a joke!

"Are you done with your... painting?"

Lifting his hand to interrupt the crowd's discussion, Vice Guild Leader Wu turned to look at Zhang Xuan.

"Un, I'm almost done..."

At this point, Zhang Xuan heaved a sigh of relief.

If someone were to pay careful attention, the person would notice that his body was trembling and that his face had become pale.

After browsing through books on poison in the Poison Hall, Zhang Xuan had gained the ability to convert the Heaven's Path zhenqi into tonic or poison with a single thought.

He had been secretly controlling the savage beast using the zhenqi he left inside its body, making it behave as he desired on the paper. Even though it had only been ten minutes or so, it was sufficient to wear out his spirit, sending him into a state of weakness.

"Seems like my cultivation is still too weak..."

Zhang Xuan lamented. Taking a deep breath, he started to pump his zhenqi to rejuvenate his body.

He had been converting the zhenqi he deposited in the savage beast into either poison or tonic to stimulate its acupoints, so as to induce the savage beast to act the way he intended. Even though it sounded simple, it had a high requirement on one's Soul Depth.

If not for Zhang Xuan's Soul Depth exceeding 5.0, it would have been an impossible task.

But more importantly, the savage beast was of an extremely low tier, making it easy to manipulate. If it were any stronger savage beast, given Zhang Xuan's current cultivation, it would have been an impossible task to manipulate them.

"Almost done?"

Disappointment surfaced on Vice Guild Leader Wu's face.

He was wondering what formidable painting the youngster could create, but to think that this would just be it...

"Alright, since Ji Mo's painting is completed, and this youngster's painting is roughly done, let's just announce the results right away!"

Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng said.

"Alright!"

Vice Guild Leader Wu nodded. Pointing to Ji Mo gongzi's work, he appraised, "Painter Ji's peony creates ripples in the surrounding spiritual energy and it has a deep artistic conception. Undoubtedly, it has reached the third level of painting, Infused Intentions."

After which, he turned to Zhang Xuan's work and said, "As for this painting, I am unable to understand its meaning. In my opinion... it is nothing at all..."

After hesitating for a moment, Vice Guild Leader Wu continued, "Thus, my verdict is that... it is Painter Ji's victory!"

"I share the same opinion as Vice Guild Leader Wu!"

Vice Guild Leader Cheng Feng nodded in agreement.

"I've won..."

Hearing the results from the judges, Ji Mo gongzi turned to Zhang Xuan and sneered, "Since the results are out, are you going to kneel down and then scram on your own two feets, or do you want me to break your legs before throwing you out of the Painter Guild?"

Before the competition, they had decided to have the loser kneel down and apologize to the other party before leaving the Painter Guild, never to return.

Now that Zhang Xuan had lost, how could he simply allow this matter to slip by?

"This..."

Seeing the savage expression on Ji Mo's face as he pressurized Zhang Xuan, the two vice guild leaders glanced at each another. Initially, they had intended to mediate between the two, but eventually, they simply shook their heads and chose to stay out of this matter.

This foreign lad had shown blatant disrespect for painting by having a savage beast paint in his stead, and the both of them thought that he should be taught a lesson. Otherwise, wouldn't it signify there are no consequences for desecrating the Painter Guild?

"Ah? You've made a verdict just like that?"

After resting for a moment, Zhang Xuan finally regained some strength. Upon hearing Ji Mo gongzi's gleeful words, he lifted his head.

"Why? Do you refuse to acknowledge the verdict by the two vice guild leaders?"

Ji Mo harrumphed coldly.

"The two vice guild leaders are 2-star painters and I believe in their eye for painting. Just that... I had only mentioned that my work was almost done, I have never said that it was done..."

Zhang Xuan shook his head.

"Are you claiming that your work is incomplete? What do you want to do then? Do you intend to lift your brush and continue painting?"

Ji Mo gongzi was taken aback.

"Since I said that this is a savage beast painting, naturally, I won't use my brush. Just that, this painting is still lacking one final step..."

Zhang Xuan smiled.

"One final step?"

The entire crowd was startled.

The painting that you created through the savage beast is such rubbish, do you think that adding some final touches will make any difference?

Under the situation that you aren't going to use the brush, do you think that the conclusion can really be changed?

"I think that he's just unwilling to admit defeat!"

"To be bragging despite the fact that he has lost, how can there be such a person in the world!"

"Shameless!"

Everyone began to clamor and looks of disgust fell on Zhang Xuan from all around.

Weren’t you behaving very arrogantly?

You're already nearing your end, why are you still putting on an act?

Even Vice Guild Leader Cheng and Vice Guild Leader Wu were perplexed.

It is just a layer of ink water on top of the paper. Without using a brush, is there really a way to turn it into a painting?

"You say that there's a final step before its completion. Fine, let's see what you have to say after this then!"

Ji Mo gongzi laughed coldly.

"Alright, I'll start then!"

Disregarding the commotion around him, Zhang Xuan walked up to the painting, grabbed the xuan paper by the corner and gave it a gentle shake.

Hualala!

The ink water on the surface of the painting flowed down, dyeing the entire painting.

"Alright, I've completed my final step!"

Placing the xuan paper back on the table casually, Zhang Xuan smiled.

"That’s all?"

Everyone was taken aback. They thought that the youngster's final step would be some incredible move, but to think that it would be just a gentle shake. For a moment, they were completely dumbfounded. noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

"Wait, something's not right... look!"

Just as they were wondering what that fellow was up to, a person from the crowd suddenly shouted.

Upon hearing the voice, Vice Guild Leader Cheng and Vice Guild Leader Wu turned to look at the xuan paper. Instantly, their bodies began to tremble uncontrollably, with their faces turning pale and their eyes widening.

A moment later, words of disbelief escaped through their mouth.

"How... how... is this possible?"

Library of Heaven's Path - Chapter 288: Ji Mo gongzi

"Oh? Let's go over then!"

Since Zhang Xuan was free, he decided to take the opportunity to learn more about how the painter examination was conducted. Thus, he followed behind the green-robed attendant into the crowd. noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

Right at the front, before a dark green table lined against the wall, an eighteen or nineteen-year-old youngster, dressed in white, was sitting on a wooden chair, and his eyes were tightly closed.

"Ji Mo gongzi, I love you! I want to bear your babies!"

"How shameless can you get? Ji gongzi is mine! Whoever who dares to vie with me, I'll rip off her clothes!"

"Young mistress, a beautiful lady over there is intent on vying with you. Go and rip off her clothes, we'll cheer you on from here!"

"..."

Even though Ji Mo gongzi's eyes were still tightly shut, many ladies in the surroundings had already gone into a frenzy.

"Ji gongzi may be young, but he's extremely gentle toward ladies. More importantly, he has a suave appearance. Thus, he became the idol of ladies in the capital!" The green-robed attendant explained with a hushed voice.

Zhang Xuan nodded. Turning to look at Ji Mo gongzi, his skin was indeed fair and smooth, and he had a dashing face. Even though his eyes were closed, his lips were slightly curled upward and vaguely, it seemed as if he was smiling. Zhang Xuan could understand why he was able to win the fancy of these ladies.

Talented, capable, a good background and most importantly, he was dashing. It was no wonder why so many ladies went insane for him.

"This is... What is he doing?"

Seeing the other party seated with his eyes shut, ignoring the ruckus around him, Zhang Xuan inquired.

"Ji Mo gongzi is about to paint, he is probably calming his brain and adjusting his mental state!" The green-robed fellow said.

"Adjusting his state of mind? Here?" Zhang Xuan was puzzled.

It was just a painting. Zhang Xuan would usually grab a brush and start on his work right away... Is there a need to adjust any state of mind?

Besides, even if he truly needs to adjust his state of mind, he should have gone somewhere quiet and peaceful. With so many people causing a huge ruckus here, how in the world does he expect to adjust his state of mind?

"Ji gongzi possesses incredible talents, having reached the level of a master painter before even reaching twenty. Every single action that he makes has its own profound purpose, this isn't something a countryside bumpkin like you can comprehend!"

Before the green-robed attendant could reply, a lady turned around and glared at Zhang Xuan furiously.

"Indeed, where did this amateur come from? Scram aside, don't taint Ji gongzi's painting!" Another lady harrumphed angrily.

Hualala!

The ladies in the surroundings turned to glare at Zhang Xuan with disdainful eyes.

"Ah?"

Not expecting to meet with so much hostility just by raising a simple doubt, Zhang Xuan became speechless.

"A lot of civilians in Tianwu Kingdom are interested in painting, thus raising the status of painters here greatly. Ji gongzi, as one of the most talented painters of the younger generation, has countless fans. Thus, it is best for you not to say anything here. Otherwise, you might really drown from the criticisms of his die-hard fans!"

With a bitter smile, the green-robed attendant whispered to him

Zhang Xuan nodded. Just as he was about to speak, Ji gongzi abrupt opened his eyes and stood up.

"Look, Ji gongzi is about to begin painting!"

"I wonder what level of painting will he create!"

"Does it have to be said? Ji gongzi is an official painter, his works are definitely at least of the second level!"

...

Upon seeing Ji gongzi move, those who were glaring at Zhang Xuan previously turned to look forward immediately, their eyes twinkling with adoration.

The first four realms of painting are Reality Depiction, Spiritual Canvas, Infused Intentions, and Breathtaking Verisimilitude.

Just like in the case of Lu Chen and Yuanyu, official painters, otherwise known as master painters, are capable of producing a painting of the second level or third level with ease. As for whether the painting can reach Breathtaking Verisimilitude, it would depend on his luck and condition.

"Me, Ji Mo, will now display my humble skills!"

Ji Mo stood before the table and with a flick of his wrist, a Chinese fan appeared in his hand. Gently fanning himself twice, his black hair and white robe danced along with the light breeze. "The painting that I create will be sold on the spot. However, I will not claim a single cent of the money, and instead, I'll be using it to build a Painting Hall. I'll invite apprentice painters to conduct lessons there so as to propagate the comprehension and passion for painting!"

"As expected of Ji gongzi, he truly doesn't care for material wealth..."

"A character befitting of a master painter, I am impressed!"

...

Hearing his words, the crowd burst into commotion once more. Numerous ladies screamed fanatically.

"This fellow sure knows how to win the hearts!" Zhang Xuan shook his head.

This Ji Mo gongzi might be young but he was obviously skilled in politics, knowing how to attract attention.

That was similar to the charity auctions conducted by celebrities in his previous life. In plain honesty, they were just gimmicks.

If he truly wanted to build a Painter Hall and propagate the passion and understanding of painting, he could have done so silently. There was no need for him to create such a huge ruckus. More importantly... It was already late autumn, and not to mention, night time. It felt cold just to stand on the spot and yet he was fanning himself...

"Silence!"

Shutting his fan, Ji Mo gongzi gestured grandly, "Alright, not to waste everyone's time, I shall begin painting now. I hope that everyone can remain silent while I am at work!"

Hearing his words, the screaming crowd quietened down all of a sudden.

Smiling lightly, Ji Mo gongzi flung his sleeves and picked up a brush.

After opening a xuan paper on the table, Ji Mo struck the table lightly with his left hand, and under the tremor of his zhenqi, a droplet of ink leaped into the air from the ink slab and landed precisely on the tip of his brush. Then, with a grand movement of his right hand, the brush fell on the surface of the paper.

The brush flew around the paper gracefully, creating an imposing sight.

Hualala!

The brush danced about on the paper, reminiscent of a fish swimming freely in a pond. Accompanying the passing of time, and the painting gradually took shape.

It was a painting of a mountain and a stream.

On the tall and towering mountain was a combination of mystical forests and mysterious boulders, divided by a stream that flowed through them. Ding dang, one could almost hear the sound of the stream striking the surface of the boulder, and the leaves were dancing toward a certain direction, as though a gentle breeze was caressing them.

"This is a painting of the second level!"

With a single glance, Zhang Xuan nodded his head silently in approval.

The Heaven's Path Painting Art which Zhang Xuan compiled using the books in Master Lu Chen's house had given him a profound understanding of paintings. Even without the Library of Heaven's Path, Zhang Xuan was capable of appraising paintings to a certain standard.

This mountain stream painting was detailed, allowing people to feel as if it were a true mountain right before them. There was a spiritual touch to the painting which gave it bizarre but wonderful aesthetics. This was proof that it has reached the level of Spiritual Canvas.

However, even though the contents were outstanding, the mountain and stream were lacking artistic conception and a personal touch. In other words, it did not reach the level of Infused Intentions.

"It is a pity. If he wasn't overly focused on showing off his skills, and instead, had carved out his painting slowly and calmly, he might have been able to achieve the level of Infused Intentions!" Zhang Xuan sighed after a moment

Even though this Ji Mo gongzi was a braggart, his painting fundamentals were in place. Logically speaking, as long as he were to paint calmly, producing a painting of the third level shouldn't be a problem.

However, his obsession with graceful and exaggerated movements had caused him to neglect the essence of the painting. Thus, this painting had only managed to reach Spiritual Canvas pinnacle, just a small step away from Infused Intentions.

Even though Zhang Xuan thought that it was a pity, he didn't voice out his thoughts.

He was only here to see how the master painter examination was conducted and he wasn't related to this Ji Mo gongzi in any way. Besides, he had been criticized by the crowd just moments ago for expressing his doubts on Ji Mo's actions, and he didn't want to be berated by this bunch of women before him.

Soon, the painting was completed.

Ji Mo gongzi threw the brush into the brush holder and hung the painting on the wall.

"This is a painting that has reached the second level pinnacle, and it is called Breeze By the Mountain and Stream. The auction will start now. The starting price is one million gold coins, and every raise must be a hundred thousand gold coins at the minimum."

At which, the edges of Li Ji gongzi's lips shot up, and a mesmerizing smile appeared on his face. Waving the fan in his hands, he brought out the disposition of a dashing scholar. "I'll accompany anyone who manages to purchase this painting for dinner, for free!"

"Accompany for dinner? This painting is mine!"

"Don't compete with me, I'll offer one million and a hundred thousand!"

"You wish to buy Ji Mo gongzi's painting for one million and a hundred thousand? Stop joking! A million and three hundred thousand!"

"I offer two million!"

...

Upon hearing the additional service that came with the painting, the ladies’ eyes reddened with excitement immediately. As they competed wildly against one another, the price soared rapidly.

"Two million and four hundred thousand?"

Seeing the price reach two million in the blink of an eye, Zhang Xuan was flabbergasted.

He sold the fifth level painting he created to Lu Chen, Huang Yu, and the others for merely two million each and this mediocre second level painting has exceeded that sum..."

This is way too damned!

"That... How much is a painting of the fifth level, Spirit Creation, worth?"

Feeling dismayed, Zhang Xuan could not help but ask the attendant beside him.

"A painting of the fifth level? That would be a treasure left behind by a 2-star grandmaster painter! Furthermore, even such a painter wouldn't be able to produce a fifth level painting as when he pleases. It depends heavily on his condition and luck... A painting of that level will easily become the treasure of our Painter Guild, and one can say that it is... priceless!"

The green-robed attendant hesitated for a moment before answering.

"Priceless?" Zhang Xuan's body swayed violently.

"Indeed! If one has no choice but to assign it a price, this starting price would likely be at minimum ten million gold coins. As for how high it can rise, I can't give a concrete answer to that. However, half a year ago, an auction for a painting of the fifth level was conducted here, and the final price was thirty-four million gold coins."

The green-robed attendant replied.

Zhang Xuan's mouth twitched and he was on the verge of tears.

Thirty-four million for a single painting and he sold four of it at two million each... Why is the world be so cruel to him?

"The Painter Guild has been established in the capital for less than thirty years, and it was only from then that the price of paintings had been on the rise. If it was thirty years ago, when no one held paintings in high regard, a painting of the fifth level would only be worth one or two million." The attendant said. "If it were any higher than that, no one would be willing to spend their money!"

"One or two million, thirty years ago?"

Zhang Xuan shook.

"That's right!" The attendant nodded.

After hearing the other party's verification, Zhang Xuan finally recovered, and his aching heart was soothed.

Tianxuan Kingdom was remote and there wasn’t the presence of a Painter Guild. It seemed that what Huang Yu and the others reported to him was the thirty-year historical price, and two million... could already be considered as a huge sum for a painting of the fifth level then.

"Does Gongzi want to buy a painting of the fifth level?" The green-robed attendant looked at him. "Only our guild leader is capable of drawing a painting of the fifth level, but he had gone out half a month ago in search of inspiration and isn't back yet..."

"I am just making a casual inquiry..."

Suppressing his vexation, Zhang Xuan shook his head.

"That..."

Staring at Zhang Xuan, the attendant asked, "Then, gongzi... why don't you buy Ji Mo gongzi's Breeze by the Mountain and Stream? It is second level pinnacle and, not to mention, Ji gongzi's work. Its value will definitely rocket in the future!"

"Forget it!" Zhang Xuan shook his head. "I'm not here to buy paintings... Besides, it's just a painting of the second level. I'm not interested in it!"

"Just a painting of the second level? How arrogant!"

Before the green-robed attendant could reply to Zhang Xuan's words, a cold harrumph sounded. Lifting his head, Zhang Xuan saw Ji Mo gongzi staring coldly at him.

"Hm?"

Zhang Xuan didn't expect the other party to hear his words when he had already spoken so softly. Zhang Xuan replied with embarrassment, "I apologize, I was just speaking casually, so please do not be offended by my words!"

Every painting is created painstakingly and saying such words before a painter is indeed inappropriate.

"Hmph, do you think this can be settled with just an apology?"

Ji Mo gongzi flung his sleeves, and his eyebrows shot up, "This action of interrupting the auction and treating my painting with contempt, you are insulting the occupation and belittling all official painters!"

"Then... What do you think I should do?"

Zhang Xuan had only made a casual comment and had already apologized for his disrespect. Yet, the other party went on and claimed that he was insulting the occupation and him. Feeling helpless, Zhang Xuan shook his head.

"Simple, buy my painting at five million gold coins!"

Placing his hands behind his back, Ji Mo gongzi glanced at him impassively. "Don't worry, I won't take a single cent of that money. I'll donate all of it to build the Painter Hall so you can consider it as atonement for your mistake!"

"Five million gold coins?"

Zhang Xuan was stunned.

He had merely come to take a look, making a comment in passing, but the other party actually wanted to force a deal upon him. What a joke!

There are so many people who worship you present, can't you get them to buy it for you...

"Why? Are you unwilling to buy it?"

Ji Mo gongzi sneered coldly. Waving his hands casually, he said, "You can refuse, but you must apologize now and swear not to step into the guild ever again! Our Painter Guild doesn't welcome people like you!"

"Never step into the guild ever again?" Zhang Xuan was speechless.

Kindness doesn't beget kindness. Other people will simply take advantage of you.

It was just a casual comment and he had already made an apology, yet the other party refused to let the matter go.

"I can apologize, and never stepping into the Painter Guild is fine by me as well. In fact, I can even buy your painting for five million gold coins. However... Your painting has to be worth that price first!"

Zhang Xuan shook his head, "Do you think that this toy, which any apprentice painter can create, is worthy of that price?"