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Chapter 157: Gaining Status in the Academy (3)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
"The noble family students usually choose some of the more outstanding members of the commoner students to join their Families. To do so, they lure them with the funds to Consolidate Equipment or Store Skills."
"Once they sign their lives away their lives to these nobles, it is pretty much no different as doing so with the Skill Storing Palace. Those seniors have pretty much sold their freedom to the Ye Family."
Amongst the commoner students, at least eighty percent have chosen to work under noble families or the Skill Storing Palace. Because the Ye Family has one of the largest influence in the Academy, they have managed to get many of the more outstanding seniors amongst the commoners."
"Thanks, brother." Zhou Weiqing turned back with a smile, feeling a good impression about Kou Rui. He obviously had been worried about Zhou Weiqing, and had gone through the trouble about investigating the powers and influences in the entire academy. By this moment, the dozen or so commoner seniors had walked up to Ye Lou, who looked at them scornfully and said: "I, Your Father, called you all for so long, and you dared keep quiet? Did you all not eat rice?! This little brat insulted my big brother, you all better take care of him."
Amongst the dozen or so commoner students, some showed a sense of shame, hanging their heads low. Others looked at Zhou Weiqing, while some others glared angrily at Ye Lou.
The senior standing at the front, looking to be the same age as Zang Lang, gave a soft sigh as she said to Zhou Weiqing: "Sorry Junior, having taken payment from them, we have no choice but to follow their orders. Could you please come with us?"
Zhou Weiqing stood up, nodding and said: "Okay." As he said that, he let go of Shangguan Bing'er 's hands and started to walk out alone.
"I'll go with you." Shangguan Bing'er stood up as well, her beautiful face as still and passive as a lake. This was the first time she felt that studying here easily without any trouble might not be as easy as she had thought. Since there were more than a dozen of them, how could she let Zhou Weiqing go by himself!
Zhou Weiqing gave a faint smile and didn't reply as he continued walking.
"Boss, count me in as well! Hmph, what so great about them, becoming dogs of the nobles just for the sake of Consolidated Equipment or Skill Storing." Kou Rui was filled with righteous indignation as he walked out from his seat as well.
To everyone's massive surprise, Besides Kou Rui, two others walked out from the commoner freshmen students to stand with Zhou Weiqing. One was Ma Qun, who was wearing a face full of smiles, and the other one was a young man of average stature, looking rather cold and distant.
Ye Lou laughed coldly and said: "Looks like this year's freshmen are really bold! Very good, it's also a good chance to teach all you freshmen about the rules of the Fei Li Imperial Family Military Academy. Ding Chen, beat them up, make sure they are beaten up badly to the verge of death, but don't kill them. Hmph, I'll see who else dares to resist and be so arrogant."
The senior who had invited Zhou Weiqing out earlier was Ding Chen who Ye Lou had called out. Seeing Zhou Weiqing walk out without resistance, he sighed softly and said: "Junior, just apologise to Young Master Lou. I've heard of your fight with Zang Lang the other day; with your talent, the Young Master Boss of the Ye Family will not want to cause too much trouble to you without provocation."
Zhou Weiqing smiled at him, elegantly patting away the creases on his uniform as he said passively: "You do not need to say anything else. Didn't you say just now, having taken payment from them, you have no choice but to follow their orders? Go ahead then. To be honest, in my eyes, you're even lower than him. As a man, if you can't even stand up straight and tall in the world, what do you amount to?"
Ding Chen's face changed and he said angrily: "Junior, do not go too far. Everyone has their own issues and difficulties to face. You are also a Jewel Master, and you should know the problems we face."
Zhou Weiqing said: "All I know is, I have my own hands and feet. If I need money, I will work hard and earn it to spend, and not be a dog. Since you've chosen to be a dog, there is no need to pretend in front of me and act nice."
His words instantly caused the dozen or so commoner seniors to reveal an angry look on their faces. Originally, they had been rather worried to show that they were under the Ye Family in front of the entire school population. However, now, they had been angered by Zhou Weiqing's words, and united against a common enemy. Each of them quickly released their Power Jewels.
"Well said. Since you've already become a dog, there's no need to act anymore!" Ma Qun said at the side. Looking at Zhou Weiqing, he continued: "Don't misunderstand me, I'm not helping you. I just can't stand how these nobles do things. What is their basis of enslaving us commoners. Hmph. I, Your Father, will never submit to such things."
Zhou Weiqing smiled and said: "Not bad, you are a real man, at least you do not let down your size and growth."
Ye Lou said angrily with much impatience: "Ding Chen, what are you still waiting for?!"
Ding Chen took a deep breath, a cold light flashing in his eyes as he took a step forward and punched towards Zhou Weiqing. His actions were simple but refined and well polished, as if he was a well tempered piece of steel who had been polished over and over. The fist flew towards Zhou Weiqing at a high speed, with a clear strength within. On his right wrist, three Icy Jade Physical Jewels revolved. He was a pure Strength Heavenly Jewel Master, just like Zhou Weiqing, and was also 3-Jeweled! To be considered by the Ye Family, and to be the leader of the Ye Family Commoner Students, he naturally was the strongest amongst them.
Zhou Weiqing followed suit, punching forward, the twelve energy whirlpools at his Death Acupuncture Points revolving at max speeds as his Heavenly Energy surged forth. There was a reason why he had moved away from his seat.
With a loud *BANG*, the two fists clashed. Zhou Weiqing stood there not moving, while Ding Chen actually stumbled back three steps before barely catching his balance. His face instantly changed.
It had to be known that Ding Chen's Heavenly Energy was already cultivated to the second level of the Heavenly Shen Energy, and was actually two levels higher than Zhou Weiqing! However, his physical strength and power was just totally incomparable to Zhou Weiqing's. At this moment, he felt as his right fist was totally numb. Facing a similar 3-Jeweled Strength Heavenly Jewel Master, and with both sides not using any Consolidated Equipment or Stored Skills, how could such a result not shock him. However, that was not the end of it, and what followed next shocked him even more. After exchanging the single punch and knocking him back, Zhou Weiqing suddenly vanished. When he appeared once more, he was already right in front of Ding Chen, his right leg already smashing downwards like a massive, terrifying axe. Without question, Zhou Weiqing had just used his Blink skill and used it to get into position to use his Demonic Right Leg. After all, the opening ceremony was about to begin, and he wanted to show his might and scare off some of those who had designs on him or Shangguan Bing'er. To do so, he naturally had to win quickly and beautifully in order to have the maximum effect.
The Blink Skill could not be measured simply by just speed – it was as if the very instant Ding Chen had stumbled backwards, Zhou Weiqing's leg was already in front of him. Not even considering the fact that speed was not his strongest point, even if it was, he would likely not be able to dodge it. Without any choice, he could only attempt to lift both arms up in an attempt to block Zhou Weiqing's right leg.
"Ding Chen is ruined." Zang Lang, who was seated amongst the other commoner students, gave a sigh as he shook his head. He had experienced the power of Zhou Weiqing's right leg for himself, and knew very well how unbelievably strong and destructive it was. In his mind, it was some sort of Consolidated Equipment or Stored Skill, and such a terrifying power was definitely not something that Ding Chen could just take easily.
*BAANGG*…. *Kaachaa*
"AHHHH —" an intense, shrill cry of pain resounded across the entire assembly hall. Ding Chen's entire body was smashed into the floor. Just as Zang Lang had expected, he was ruined. Both his arms which had been attempting to block Zhou Weiqing's right leg had been broken. At the same time, the leg had broken through his guard and smashed into his shoulder, breaking it along with 5 ribs! If not for the fact that Zhou Weiqing had not used his full strength and also struck to the side at the last moment, his head would have been smashed apart. In the next instant, with Zhou Weiqing as the central point, with a radius of fifty metres, everyone fell silent. Even Ye Lou who had been arrogantly calling out just a moment ago, fell silent, as if he had swallowed something and choked on it. His face was totally pale as he looked at the scene in front of him.
No one had expected that in a clash of pure strength, Ding Chen would lose so quickly and so absolutely, nor had they expected Zhou Weiqing to be so vicious in striking. That leg alone had almost caused Ding Chen to be ruined for life. Blood poured out of Ding Chen's mouth as he writhed on the ground, spasming.
The other commoner seniors who had been behind Ding Chen stood there dumbfounded. None of them dared be the next to launch an attack towards Zhou Weiqing.
Earlier, the cold and grave looking freshman youth who had stood out together with Ma Qun also narrowed his eyes in shock.
Shangguan Bing'er had closed her eyes before Zhou Weiqing's Demonic Right Leg had struck Ding Chen's arms. She was the one who knew Zhou Weiqing's powers the best, and she knew that directly fighting power to power with his leg would never result in a good end. When they were still in the Heavenly Bow Unit, even the 7-Jeweled Physical Jewel Master Hua Feng dared not collide directly with Zhou Weiqing's Demonic Right Leg. Its sheer strength was already not something any normal Jewel Master could compare to. Yesterday, Ming Hua's method of fighting with him, not allowing his right leg to touch her, was the best fighting style to deal with it.
Looking at Ding Chen who had fallen on the floor, Zhou Weiqing did not feel any sense of sympathy. "You still call yourself a Heavenly Jewel Master. That 'Wang Ba Dan''s Family, they really treated you well huh. Selling yourself to them, it must be really good. If I haven't seen wrongly, you have a darkness seal within you, you've become just a slave. In the future, you better not appear in front of me again. Otherwise, even if you somehow manage to fix your bones, I will break them again. I do not mind if you want to become a dog, but if a dog comes barking crazily in front of me, then do not blame me for being nasty."
After he finished speaking, he turned to look at the other Ye Family commoner seniors who were still behind Ding Chen. "You bunch of weak willed fools are willing to become dogs, beating you up is just dirtying my foot."
The next moment, his body disappeared once more in a flash as he activated the Blink Skill. This time, he appeared right in front of Ye Lou, who was so surprised that he stumbled back with an ashen face, falling down onto the ground on his ass. His voice trembling, he said: "You… what are you doing?" In his eyes, Zhou Weiqing had a tyrannical, overbearing aura about him, as if he were a demon personifying plague and pestilence.
Zhou Weiqing smiled faintly, squatting down and patting him softly on his pale face. "Relax, I'm not doing anything to you. Go back and tell your boss… next time, find a better egg to look for me. Don't use someone useless like you. Get lost!" Ye Lou was originally thinking of dropping a final threat before leaving, but seeing Zhou Weiqing's smiling face, his heart froze and he just didn't dare say a word. Bringing the other two noble students along, he slunk away into the distance.
Zhou Weiqing stood up once more, looking towards the other twenty odd freshmen of his class, saying coldly: "I do not care, nor can I do anything about the seniors who have already made their choices. However, we will be together in the same class for the next four year. If any of you dare to bow down and submit to any noble families, you better just get lost and not let me see you in class. Otherwise, Ding Chen will be your example."
"How dare you say that? What's your basis of doing so?!" The cold, distant youth standing next to Ma Qun said solemnly. "What right do you have to decide others' fate? How we choose is our own business. Do you think your words are law in the academy? Even if we want to be dogs to nobles, that is our own choice."
Chapter 158: I'll upkeep you all (1)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
"Right? Basis?" Zhou Weiqing looked at the youth and said passively: "My basis is my fist. Since my fist is stronger than yours… Might is right! In the future, my word is the rule for the class. At least in the next four years, no matter who it is, no one is allowed to surrender and depend on either noble families or the Skill Storing Palace. After four years, when we have all graduated, everyone will go on their own path, and you can do whatever you want then. I can't control anyone."
As he said that, he walked slowly towards the youth, who continued staring at him with a burning gaze without backing down. Even Ma Qun who was standing beside the youth knitted his brows. Zhou Weiqing was being unbelievably arrogant. Even Kou Rui had a rather ugly look on his face, while the other seniors who were around them looked towards Zhou Weiqing as if he were crazy.
Shangguan Bing'er grabbed Zhou Weiqing's arm, saying softly: "Little Fatty, what's wrong? We're all classmates, don't do that."
"It's exactly because we are classmates that's why I am doing this." Zhou Weiqing said coldly as his gaze swept across all the freshmen commoner students. He saw fear, anger, discontent, apprehension, all sorts of emotions and looks expressed on their faces and eyes. "As a person, one needs to be able to stand up tall and straight. If one has no backbone, how does one become a strong person? Have you ever heard in the Jewel Master world of any strong person who was a slave? Let me teach you all a lesson. As a human being, one has to stand up tall, straighten your backbone. As such, I will not allow my classmates to be slaves to others, I do not want to see you all dwarfed or looked down on by others."
Even though he was still being held onto by Shangguan Bing'er, he walked on to the front of the youth. That youth was indeed stubborn and strong willed, facing Zhou Weiqing's imposing aura, he did not back down.
Zhou Weiqing walked to only one chi from the youth before stopping. "Earlier, you asked me, what is my basis? Alright, let me tell you!"
As he said that, he lifted up his hand and wiped it across the spatial necklace around his neck. Instantly, a gold coin storage card appeared in his hands, and he pushed it in front of the youth. "In this card, there is at least 400,000 gold coins of value. From today onwards, all of our classmates' requirements for Skill Storing will be paid for by that. If it runs out, I will top it up. I do not need you all to submit to me or enslave yourselves to me, but in this four years I will pay for your requirements, and all I require is that you all stand up tall and be a real person, and not a dog."
With those words, everyone around erupted into words. The first impression of the seniors around was that this fellow had gone crazy, paying for his classmates' Skill Storing without requiring anything in return?! Isn't that insanity?
On the other hand, the freshmen were all dumbfounded, staring at Zhou Weiqing with a strange expression on their faces. This fellow in front of them might be crazy, but he was a really cute and adorable crazy! After all, if given a choice, who would want to become a dog, become a slave and be bound by Darkness Seals?
The cold, grave youth subconsciously took the card from Zhou Weiqing's hands. His eyes, originally full of anger and stubbornness, were now dazed. "You should know that Skill Storing isn't really the issue, and Physical Jewel Consolidating Equipment is actually the real problem. Even a normal set of low level Consolidating Equipment Scrolls will cost at least 50,000 gold coins, and this 400,000 gold coins will not last long. Furthermore, even if you are rich, it doesn't mean that you will be able to purchase Consolidating Equipment Scrolls, since they are still very rare!"
Zhou Weiqing smiled and said: "I said that I would handle it… Kou Rui!"
"En?" Kou Rui heard his name being called and ran over. "Boss? You called me?"
Zhou Weiqing patted him on his shoulder and said: "Do you trust me?"
Looking at Zhou Weiqing, Kou Rui said: "I trust you. Since I have already made my decision to follow you, I will not regret it. My father said, in our lives, we always have some opportunities or chances which appear before us, and we will need to seize the opportunity and not let go of it. I believe that this is my opportunity."
Zhou Weiqing laughed heartily. "Very good, I also believe in that. Help me hold this." As he said that, he once swiped his hand across his Spatial Necklace, and a sheet of paper appeared in his hands. He asked Kou Rui to hold two edges of it, while Shangguan Bing'er held the other two edges, keeping the paper horizontally flat in midair. Turning to the grave youth, he said: "Do you know what this is?"
"This? Could this be… Consolidating Paper?" Came the surprised reply.
Zhou Weiqing nodded and said: "Watch." As he said that, he flicked his wrists, and before anyone could see clearly, a brush and a small bottle appeared in his hands. As he opened the bottle cap, he dipped the brush into the bottle, which was filled with Consolidating Ink. Taking a deep breath, Zhou Weiqing's gaze seemed to turn sharp as he focused, his eyes narrowing as his entire concentration was on the Consolidating Paper before him.
By now, that Ye Lou fellow returned with seven to eight academy teachers in tow. Ding Chen's injuries weren't light, and he could make use of that against Zhou Weiqing. His big bro was not attending this opening ceremony, and if he found out about what happened, he would be extremely angry, and Ye Lou would be in trouble. Since he wasn't able to deal with Zhou Weiqing personally, then he would let the teachers deal with him! First would be to get him expelled using Ding Chen's injuries as an excuse, and once he was expelled they could deal with him slowly.
Seeing Ding Chen's injured body on the floor, two of the teachers rushed over immediately to start healing him, while the others walked towards Zhou Weiqing. Just as Ye Lou was about to speak, the leader of the teachers, looking about 50 years of age, stopped him. He stared at the paper that Shangguan Bing'er and Kou Rui was holding, surprise in his eyes. "Wait. Let's see what he is up to. That's a Consolidating Paper… And it's an empty one too… Could it be…"
At the same time, Zhou Weiqing started moving. His movements were not quick, on the contrary, they were extremely slow and measured. It was as if nothing in the background mattered, that nothing was affecting him, and nothing had happened earlier. As the brush moved up and down steadily, it brought along a shimmering silver glow as the Consolidating Ink swirled around on the paper, etching deep into it.
Everyone in the hall was staring at Zhou Weiqing, most of the students even standing to look. Many of the students who were originally far away did not know exactly what was going on, but steadily more and more attention was drawn here.
Zhou Weiqing seemed to have lapsed into a strange, unique rhythm. With his stroke of the brush, a mark was left on the Consolidating Paper. As he continued drawing, the image of small round shield slowly appeared on the paper, strange symbols and tattoos seemingly making everything fall into place. The entire process was very slow, but natural and smooth, like the endless flow of water in a stream. His actions did not stop a second, and every brushstroke seemed to be linked to the world.
Zhou Weiqing was focused fully on the Consolidated Paper, while Shangguan Bing'er was focused on his face. As the saying goes, a man who is focused at work is at his finest, and at that moment she finally understood what all that he was doing, the deeper meaning in it all. Of course! My Little Fatty was never a careless person, how could he do anything for nothing?
Finally, Zhou Weiqing completed the last brushstroke with a flourish, and a brilliant gold light shone forth, and the unique aura of a Consolidating Equipment Scroll was released. Although it was just a split second, it was something that the surrounding onlookers would never forget.
Although Consolidating Equipment Scrolls were rare, there were many Jewel Masters around, and quite a few had used Consolidating Equipment Scrolls before.
However, witnessing the actual process of creation of a scroll was something that almost none of them had been through! However, though they hadn't seen it before, they had at least heard of the process. When the gold light flashed out, even a fool would know that Zhou Weiqing had completed the Consolidating Equipment Scroll.
Zhou Weiqing kept the scroll from Shangguan Bing'er and Kou Rui's hands, and turned once more to the cold youth. What he saw was a look of surprise and respect, the cold look in his face gone.
"Elemental Jewel Skill Storing, Physical Jewel Consolidating Equipment. My dear classmates, what else do you all lack? I am a mid level Consolidating Equipment Master. As I said, I can upkeep all of you, without any need for repayment, and I can do so even for the Consolidating Equipment you need. I am a commoner, but I believe that with my ability at creating Consolidating Equipment Scrolls, I have the right to say all that. Are you all willing to spend the next four years with me? To not allow anyone to bully us?"
After creating that Consolidating Equipment Scroll, Zhou Weiqing did not show any signs of fatigue, instead looking energetic. His eyes were filled with confidence and an incomparable resolution.
"I am willing." Kou Rui was the first to support Zhou Weiqing once more. As for Shangguan Bing'er, it was not necessary for her to even speak. She would always follow him.
"My name is Yan Zhexi. I, too, am willing." The second person to speak up was that cold youth." With such an offer, with free Skill Storing and free Consolidated Equipment, he would be a fool not to agree!
"Heh heh…" Without even taking a look and just hearing that voice, Zhou Weiqing naturally knew it was Ma Qun who had just opened his mouth as well.
The freshmen students stood up one by one. No matter what their nature or character was, with Zhou Weiqing holding that freshly created Consolidating Equipment Scroll in front of them, and asking them if they would stand tall together with him for four years, their blood was ignited.
No one would be willing to be enslaved without reason. Especially so now they had a strong support in front of them. A Consolidating Equipment Master, who knew how many strong and powerful people would be willing to follow him. Furthermore, he was their classmate, a classmate who was willing to help them without recompense. At this time, who would make another choice?
"I'm willing! We're willing!" Voices sounded out one after the other. In this very instant, all the freshmen students' hearts were bound together, and the central nucleus of that binding was Zhou Weiqing, scroll in hand, as he stood tall.
Chapter 159: I'll upkeep you all (2)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
At this point, Ye Lou was completely dumbfounded. Consolidating Equipment Master? That little brat was actually a Consolidating Equipment Master? No matter how proud and arrogant he was, he knew how important a Consolidating Equipment Master was, how rare they were, and what they meant to any large power or influence! Among the entire student population of the three top academies of the Fei Li Empire, it would be hard pressed to find another Consolidating Equipment Master! Furthermore, Zhou Weiqing was a mid level Consolidating Equipment Master!
Although Ye Lou didn't have much abilities, he still had some ability to judge the situation, and he knew that Zhou Weiqing was not exaggerating things.
After all, earlier, the Consolidating Paper was not even placed on a table, and he had actually drawn it directly without the aid of a design pre-drawn! This was not something that even an ordinary mid level Consolidating Equipment Master could do!
As he finally caught a breath, he seized the opportunity between all the various cries "I do" to slink off away. Ye Lou knew that he had made a huge mess of things today… and he would be in deep trouble went he went back. Even still, he knew that he had no choice but to report what happened to his big bro as soon as possible… if not, things would be even worse for him!
"Pa Pa pa…" The sounds of clapping rang out, and Zhou Weiqing turned around to see the group of black clothed teachers that Ye Lou had led over. The one who was clapping was the fifty year old teacher that had been leading the group. There was an undisguised admiration in his eyes.
"Boy, what's your name?" The teacher smiled as he asked. Although he was smiling, Zhou Weiqing could sense an uncanny pressure and stress. With his keen senses, he could immediately tell that this man in front of him was way beyond his abilities.
"Hello teacher, my name is Zhou Weiqing." Zhou Weiqing said politely, the impassioned and vehement look he had a moment ago disappearing, and that innocent, honest looking boy that was in front of them just seemed so different from that arrogant fellow who took out Ding Chen with a kick earlier. This fellow indeed changed faced faster than people could flip a page in a book.
Zhou Weiqing was extremely intelligent, and he knew what to do and what to say in front of different people. If he tried to resist an academy teacher without reason, that would be foolish of him. First of all, not to mention he didn't have the power and strength to do so… even if he did, he still needed to continue learning in this academy. For Shangguan Bing'er and his own sake, he couldn't easily offend teachers. Beating another student, that was still a matter between students. However, if he displayed arrogance towards a teacher… then that would be another matter altogether… no matter how high his abilities were, that was something the academy would not be able to stand.
The fifty year old teacher smiled and said: "I never expected that this year's batch of freshmen has so many talents… and even more… a mid level Consolidating Equipment Mater… Good… Very good… However…."
Just as he said the words 'however', he suddenly saw Zhou Weiqing's face change… change into a look of grief and indignation, lamenting with a sobbing voice: "Teacher… you've arrived at just the right time! I was just about to look for a teacher to report the injustice… You must uphold justice for us weak little freshmen ah! As freshmen, we have just entered the school… and we've already started being bullied by these seniors. Just now, so many of them surrounded me and attacked me. Furthermore, there are those noble senior… saying that if I do not submit to them… I will not be able to stay in the academy… that they will make me beg to die. The best case scenario would be just me getting chased out of school. In attempting to defend myself, I accidentally hit one of the many seniors who were surrounding me… sigh… that is indeed my fault. However… if… if I didn't take action… perhaps I would be the one lying half dead on the floor right now. Teacher, I just want to study in school, to be hardworking and learn what I can… to contribute my meagre talents to the school's honour… Our Imperial Family Academy is still being run by the teachers right…? You have to protect us weak commoners! If not, in the future, which commoners would ever want to join our Imperial Family Military Academy?"
As Zhou Weiqing said that, he was sobbing away with his tears flowing… Of course, whether or not he was really crying, nobody could really tell since he kept wiping his eyes with his sleeves...
What was the meaning of two-faced? To pin everything on the other side? Zhou Weiqing showed off an amazing, well practiced piece of acting in front of all the other students.
At least over a hundred students had seen the entire events that had transgressed, but even they could not marry the two images… Of that arrogant fellow and this sobbing weak little lamb that was a 'mere frail commoner'. In front of so many witnesses, to change faces like that, to speak like that, it wasn't something that any normal person could do, it required a skin so unbelievably thick!
Shangguan Bing'er flushed deeply, looking down and not looking at Zhou Weiqing. If not for the fact that she was so kind hearted, she might have jumped up and proclaimed she didn't know this fellow.
The surrounding students were all dumbfounded, their hearts resounding with a single sentence: What? That works?!
Alas, what these students knew… Wasn't necessarily known to the teachers. All they saw was that Zhou Weiqing created a Consolidating Equipment Scroll, and kindly telling the other commoner students that he would upkeep them without need for repayment, not allowing others to bully us. To be honest, many of the ordinary teachers were of common birth, with only the upper echelons being of noble birth. Furthermore, with Zhou Weiqing's display of his amazing talent in creating Consolidating Equipment Scrolls, as well as Ye Lou's previous bad reputation… in that moment, most of the teachers had believed most of Zhou Weiqing's words.
Zhou Weiqing's sobbing denouncement wasn't thoughtless and without consideration. His words were extremely skilled, not only did he denounce the various seniors for their surrounding him and 'brutality', he even admitted his own mistakes with such an honest, sincere apologetic appearance. When teachers usually taught their students, they would usually say… Committing an error is not the scary thing, the most important thing is to know your mistake and learn from it. Admitting your mistake is the first step. Now, Zhou Weiqing's appearance… wasn't it just that? In the teachers' eyes, he was perfectly justified in his self defence, and was now begging for their protection as the weaker side.
The most important thing was that what Zhou Weiqing said was all truths of some sort. Indeed, it was Ye Lou who had started the fight, who had asked the seniors to beat him. If not for the fact that his power was so great, the one who would be beaten up would indeed have been Zhou Weiqing As such… the beauty of his words was that nobody could refute his statements. After all, having studied under Mu En for so many years, it was not for nothing! As compared to two years ago, our dear Zhou Little Fatty was now a lot more mature… In Mu En's words… this little brat had grown from an ordinary mere scoundrel into a high level rogue.
Hearing Zhou Weiqing's words, the fifty year old teacher's face darkened… his eyes sweeping across the surrounding students… especially the seniors who were standing with Ding Chen.
"It seems the problem is indeed very serious! Is this what the noble students are doing now? Bullying the commoner students to such an extent? Even such young freshmen, you still won't let them go? Do you all still have any shame as a senior? The bunch of you, go back to your rooms to reflect on your actions, each of you will have to submit a report to me on your self reflections. After that, go stand in the main square as punishment… without my permission… none of you can leave."
The other commoner seniors were so aggrieved and wronged in their hearts! Alas, they did not dare to rebut the teacher, and slunk away.
The teacher continued in a grave tone: "This situation cannot continue for long… it looks like our academy needs to go through some shaking up. Otherwise, in the future, no true talents will dare come to our academy to study. All of you, return to your seats. The academy will handle the situation after the opening ceremony."
The teacher's stern look struck fear into all the surrounding students, especially the seniors who were familiar with him, and they all quickly went back to their seats without making a sound.
Zhou Weiqing was also prepared to return to his seat, but he was called back by that teacher. In contrast to the stern and serious appearance he had earlier, this teacher with an imposing aura now had a faint smile on his face. Taking a few steps forward, he patted Zhou Weiqing on his shoulder, saying: "Young men need to have guts! You should not be depressed after any setbacks, and should come back fighting, and stronger. Do not worry, I will take care of what happened… This is the Fei Li Imperial Family Military Academy, not some people's backyards. The academy will protect every student's safety. However, fighting in school is not allowed amongst students, so you will still have to pay for the medical bill of the student you accidentally injured."
Hearing the teacher's words… the surrounding students almost choked. What? Depressed? Setbacks? Come back fighting stronger?? This brutal fellow who almost kicked a upper level Shi Stage Heavenly Jewel Master to death with a single blow… if he came back fighting stronger, how could the rest of them live?? Furthermore… how did this become an accidental injury? That was a brutal savage blow! To think that just paying medical fees would be his only punishment? And it was made out as if that shameless Zhou Weiqing fellow was the one who was suffering the injustice. Instantly, all the surrounding students had a strange expression on their faces.
Zhou Weiqing ignored them. At this moment, his face was that of being overwhelmed with gratitude to the point of tears… "Thank you teacher, you are just so just and fair. I will definitely shoulder my responsibilities. Senior Ding Chen was also not at fault, after all he was just listening to instructions. I will definitely pay for his medical fees and re-nourishment fees. Teacher, can I know your name… having to come to this academy and met you today… I truly feel like I am really part of this academy… part of a home."
When the teacher heard Zhou Weiqing's words, the smile on his face widened… and he nodded to Zhou Weiqing and said: "My name is Xiao Shi, and I am the Dean of Students. In the future, if you met any such injustice, you can come to look for me. My office is in the 3rd floor of the main school building, the western wing."
"Thank you Teacher Xiao, it is great to have such a fair and just teacher like you, and with your protection at least I can concentrate on my studies in school. In the future, I will definitely endeavour to bring honour to the academy, and be an outstanding student."
Xiao Shi laughed heartily and said: "Alright, you should return to your seat as well, the opening ceremony is about to begin." Zhou Weiqing did not flatter him outright, but each of his words were hidden praises… Such an outstanding yet good and hardworking student… which teacher wouldn't like him?!
Chapter 160: I'll upkeep you all (3)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
As Zhou Weiqing returned to his seat, Xiao Shi also led the other teachers away. The surrounding students stared at him with a mix of scorn, respect, fear and admiration. On the other hand, Zhou Weiqing ignored their varied expressions, saying: "I want to be the class rep1. Does anyone have any objections? I meant what I said, in the next four years, before we all graduate, everyone in our class will get all their requirements for Consolidating Equipment and Skill Storing. Mmmnn… to get more help from me, you should all work hard at cultivating, and cultivate more sets of Jewels before you graduate. As I said, I have no requirements from you all… after four years, we will part ways."
Within the commoner freshmen, some of them were still confused by the entire morning's events. Severely injuring senior Ding Chen… did this just end so easily? Was there no further punishment from the academy? Amongst these students, some of the more intelligent ones could already see how extraordinary Zhou Weiqing was. This fellow might be crazy, but he had his own logic, and was no fool. No matter what his reasons were for doing this, at least it was of no detriment to them.
Under such a circumstance, who would object to him being class rep?
Alas, right at that moment, against all expectations, a disharmonious voice rang out. "To become the class rep… did you ask my permission?"
The voice was soft and alluring, full of a seductive undertone, and everyone's gaze was subconsciously drawn to its owner immediately.
Since Zhou Weiqing had entered the assembly hall, the events that transpired let him feel that everything was under his control. However, when he looked at the owner of the voice, his expression changed instantly into an ugly expression.
Ming Hua stood there, no sign of yesterday's injuries on her pretty face and beautiful body. She was looking extremely good, slightly flushed, her pretty eyes rolling a little as she stared at the freshmen students. However, that was not the reason got Zhou Weiqing's expression. The main reason for it was actually her attire – she was in the black robes that was meant for teachers. Currently, her eyes were mocking and seemingly laughing at Zhou Weiqing.
"Ohhh? Cat got your tongue, my dear Consolidating Equipment Master? Didn't you want to be the class rep?"
Zhou Weiqing gave a bitter smile: "… Could it be that… You are our class teacher in charge?"
Ming Hua smiled and said: "I'm sorry, it is just that coincidental. I indeed just happen to be your class teacher in charge. Hello all of you students, my name is Ming Hua, and I will be your teacher from now on. I hope that everyone can learn well from today onwards, learn all the military knowledge and become an outstanding military leader or general."
When Zhou Weiqing saw Ming Hua dressed in the teacher's black robes, he sensed a feeling of foreboding as his heart sank. No matter how smart and cunning he was, he had never expected that someone as young as Ming Hua was a teacher and not a student! Furthermore, she was his class teacher! How would be spend the days ahead? He had just beaten her up yesterday, and almost to death…
Zhou Weiqing had no choice but to shut up and sit down quietly, as his mind spun rapidly, looking for any possible solution.
To his great surprise, Ming Hua changed her tune. After attracting the attention of all the freshmen, she smiled and said: "Earlier, I saw our student Zhou Weiqing's performance. I think what he said was right. As a person, the most important thing is to have a backbone, to stand upright. No matter whether or not his actions are right or wrong, at least they have given our class a sense of unity and brought you all closer together. As such, I think that it isn't too bad to give him the temporary position of class rep. Of course, after the opening ceremony, we can go through a proper round of voting for the actual position."
Listening to her words, Zhou Weiqing was taken aback. He found it strange that Ming Hua hadn't seized the opportunity to suppress him.
Ming Hua walked to the front and found herself a seat. At the other side, the senior classes of the commoner students all stared at her as if they had seen a ghost.
Zang Lang's face twitched once more, muttering to himself: "It looks like this year the nobles will not be able to enslave any of the freshmen. With the Flower of Hades' Underground, plus that fellow, it's going to be an interesting and noisy school year."
After such an eventful morning, the opening ceremony was finally about to begin. Zhou Weiqing saw the Dean of Students Xiao Shi had already walked to the VIP corner from the side door of the nobles' gallery. Besides Xiao Shi, 3 others walked in with him.
The one who drew Zhou Weiqing's attention the most was the one in the main seat. The person was tall and slim, also dressed in a set of teacher's black robes. The difference was, her robe was lined with lines of gold. Her long hair was a lustrous black, held neatly behind her head with a golden circlet. Her beautiful pale face had a faint smile on it, and there was a symbol of the cross sword icon of the Fei Li Empire on the upper side of the robes at her chest. The main difference was at the center of the symbol, lay a stunningly brilliant red gem.
Although the distance wasn't exactly close to the VIP stand, Zhou Weiqing could still feel her high class beauty, noble grace and elegance. This was not something he had seen from anyone else before. Not even in the Heavenly Bow Empire's Imperial Family had he seen anyone with an aura like this young lady, who barely looked 17 years of age.
Besides this young lady, among the other three, Xiao Shi was actually the youngest. The other two were white haired old men. Although their robes were also lined with gold stripes, they did not have the gold cross sword symbol on their chests, and their aura seemed to be merely an accompaniment to the young lady.
As the four entered, the entire assembly hall fell into silence. Xiao Shi sat at the front seat, calling out in a solemn voice: "The opening ceremony will now begin. Let us put our hands together to welcome our Principal Cai Cai to get the show started, as well as Vice Principals Xing Tian Yi and Zeng Xun.
Instantly, the sound of clapping arose like thunder, and the three Principals stood up, inclining their heads in greeting.
Principal? That young lady was actually the principal? Although Zhou Weiqing had vaguely sensed her importance, he was still struck by surprise and disbelief when the true nature of her position was revealed.
The great Fei Li Imperial Family Military Academy actually had such a beautiful young lady as the Principal? Although Zhou Weiqing approved heartily, it did seem rather odd! Could there be some hidden secret behind this?
Just as Zhou Weiqing was musing over the possibilities, Kou Rui's voice rang out in his ear once more. "Boss, our Principal is truly a great person. I have been inquiring about her and the reason why she was able to become the Principal was because of her own abilities. Do not judge her by her looks; she might look young, gentle and frail, but she is well known in the Fei Li Empire to be a Iron Lady, and is a general and Vice Commander in the army. Furthermore, that rank was reduced due to the fact she is a lady, otherwise with her contributions she might be of an even higher rank now. Also, Principal Cai Cai is the Fei Li Emperor's younger sister, and although she is already 35 years old this year, she is still unmarried.
It is rumoured that she and the God General Ming Yu are lovers, although nobody knows why they are still unmarried or without children after all these years.
Listening to Kou Rui's words, Zhou Weiqing couldn't help but laugh. "I didn't expect that you are such a gossip."
Kou Rui grinned and said: "Originally when I was in my previous military high school, my main focus of study was military intelligence and spycraft. After all, in war, military intelligence and scouting is one of the most important things – only when we have grasp of accurate intelligence are we able to make the right decisions, and it is often the key to victory."
Zhou Weiqing smiled and said: "In the future, if I can become a general, I want you as my Intelligence Officer."
As they exchanged whispers quietly, the opening ceremony officially began. In truth, this so called official ceremony was just an opportunity for the few leaders of the academy to speak to all the students, to summarise the accomplishments of the academy, the highlights of the past years. After listening to a few sentences, Zhou Weiqing was feeling really drowsy. Of the entire ceremony, the only thing he remembered was the beautiful sound of Principal Cai Cai's voice, but not any of the contents. As for Shangguan Bing'er who was sitting beside him, she paid full attention to all the speeches. Being able to enter the Fei Li Military Academy was something important to her, and she truly treasured the opportunity. After all, that feeling of helplessness when she was the Battalion Commander was still fresh in her mind, and it made her feel extremely lacking in terms of military knowledge.
…
Just as the opening ceremony was being held in the Fei Li Military Academy, not far from it, a unique visitor entered the Fei Li Empire's Skill Storing Palace Headquarters.
A young lady stood before the Skill Storing Palace, silently observing the tall, large building before her. Although she was just standing there, she seemed to have a unique aura that drew the attention of everyone around. It was a strange, noble aura that seemed to destroy any improper thoughts anyone might have, as if they were looking upon a glowing ray of sunshine.
The young lady had covered her face with cloth, and although she seemed very young, she had a head of white hair. However, it was clear that the colour wasn't due to old age, as it shone with a lustre and gleam of life, almost glittering with an inner glow as if it were made of strands of white jade. At the sides of her forehead, there were two stripes of blue hair, contrasting with the rest of the white and somehow accentuating her beauty further.
Her eyes were a deep purple, and her soft gaze seemed to reach deep into one's soul. Standing there, it was as if she drew in all the sun and light of the world around her, and soon, her slender long legs moved, as she slowly headed up the steps to the Skill Storing Palace.
She had just stepped up, and already immediately drew the attention of the guards. After some hesitation, four of them went up to her. At that time, despite their duties, they had a strange feeling in their hearts, as if to ask her to show her Power Jewels was an absurd thing to do. This person was definitely a Heavenly Jewel Master.
Before they could speak, the white haired lady lifted up her right hand, the slender fingers glowing with a faint white light, and along her wrist, six Icy Jade Physical Jewels appeared, white mist swirling around them.
The guards' pupils contracted in shock, and they bowed as they said respectfully: "Most respected Upper Level Zun Stage Heavenly Jewel Master, please enter."
The white haired lady nodded faintly, but did not speak. She took a step forward, and passed by the guards into the Skill Storing Palace.
Chapter 161: Mysterious White Haired Young Lady (1)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
It was only after she had vanished into the building, when the guards seemed to awaken.
"Can you guys guess her age?"
"No, I can't. Upper level Zun Stage Heavenly Jewel Master! It's been awhile since I've seen such a powerful Heavenly Jewel Master entering our Skill Storing Palace. I wonder why she didn't go directly to the Wan Shou Empire to look for a suitable Heavenly Beast for Skill Storing?"
"Who knows? My guess is, this Upper level Zun Stage Heavenly Jewel Master should be the Light Attribute… It felt as if she was as bright as the sun itself."
After entering the Skill Storing Palace, the white haired young lady did not stop at all, directly entering the path leading to the Spatial Attribute Skill Storing area. Every step she took seemed to bring her naturally almost a dozen metres to the front, floating along as if she had no real physical body. Before long she had reached the hall to choose the Heavenly Beast's stage.
The two Skill Storing Palace Jewel Masters who were guarding the hall were just about to ask her what stage of Heavenly Beast she was looking for, when… the white haired lady waved her left hands, a dim white light flashed out and the two of them crumpled back down into their seats. In another flash of white light, her body stealthily entered the recently opened passage – leading to the one and only King Stage Heavenly Beast, Silver Emperor.
In the next instant, she appeared in front of the Silver Emperor.
As if sensing her presence, the Silver Emperor which had been confined to the ground by the powerful Darkness Seals suddenly raised its head. When it saw the white haired lady, it started chittering excitedly, the silver feathers on its body standing up and its eyes revealing its excitement.
Once again, the white haired lady raised her left hand, and a thick milky white light swirled out and enveloped the Silver Emperor quietly. As soon as the white light met with the Darkness seal on its forehead and wings, the Silver Emperor's body started quivering involuntarily.
All of a sudden, the milky white brilliant light turned gold. The three black Darkness Seals suddenly started melting away like snow in the summer's sun.
The Silver Emperor shuddered, its wings spreading wide violently, and a terrifying aura exploded outwards. In a ear piercing shattering sound, the chains on its body split apart, and a long suppressed cry shrieked out from its mouth.
The white haired lady looked on impassively as that all happened, with nary a change in expression. With another flick of her right hand, a brilliant gold light fell upon the Silver Emperor's forehead. Instantly, its entire body was enveloped by a dim gold light, and the terrifying aura of surrounding it seemed to strengthen several fold. Its rather weak eyes turned strong and powerful, and a golden symbol appeared on its forehead.
The white haired lady finally opened her mouth… Her voice was soft and pleasing to the ear… extremely enchanting, yet seemingly without any emotions.
"Saving you now from your torture… In future, you belong to the Snow God. Come with me…"
The Silver Emperor nodded repeatedly, its cries slowly stopping, and its terrifying and violent aura that showed its powerful rank of a King Stage Heavenly Beast settled down and vanished as it calmed down. Spreading its wings, the Silver Emperor landed on her shoulders. A dim white light enveloped the two of them, and they levitated up, warping into a ball of thick white light and shooting forth out of the Skill Storing Palace like a bolt of lightning.
Earlier when the Silver Emperor had cried shrilly, the entire Skill Storing Palace shook in the massive reverberation. Instantly, ten powerful auras erupted from the distance, all speeding towards the Skill Storing Palace.
Alas, when they reached, all they saw was a mass of white life flying out of the Skill Storing Palace. Instantly, the ten terrifying auras surrounded it in anger.
A loud angry howl filled with rage sounded forth as a silver bolt of lightning seemed to tear through and swallow the entire Skill Storing Palace. Despite them being in midst of the bright light, it seems the outside was all surrounded by a pitch black darkness. In the next instance, the silver light and the white light seemed to both burst forth at the same time. The darkness surrounding them and blocking them dissolved and the two disappeared into the distance.
When the ten powerful members of the Skill Storing Palace's settled down in anger and went to investigate the Silver Emperor's stone chamber, they saw a line of gold words left there.
"How dare you all enslave a King Stage Heavenly Beast? It has now returned to the arms of the Snow God Mountain, if you continue… Wait to be destroyed."
When they saw the words, they couldn't help but feel a chill run down their spines. As one, they exclaimed: "Snow God Mountain… Damned!"
…
Back at Fei Li Imperial Family Military Academy.
"Little Fatty… Wake up. The opening ceremony has ended." Shangguan Bing'er nudged Zhou Weiqing who was beside her dozing away.
"Uh? Ended? En… Impressive, our teachers' words are so inspiring." Zhou Weiqing had not even opened his eyes, and the words already streamed out of his mouth. Listening to this fellow's words, the students around who had all seen him drooling as he dozed away were all struck speechless.
As Zhou Weiqing opened his eyes, the school leaders had all left, and many of the other students had stood up and were in the midst of leaving.
"Inspiring?" Ming Hua's mocking sound entered his ears, causing him to wake up fully. "Students of Commoner Class One, follow me back to the class."
Following Ming Hua's instructions, all the students headed with her towards the exit of the assembly hall.
Ming Hua eyed Zhou Weiqing, and as their gazes met, he wriggled his brow at her, while she smiled at him enchantingly. It was as if that life threatening battle between them did not happen yesterday.
The commoner class one's classroom was also at the first level of the main building, and they reached it not long after exiting the assembly hall.
There were forty seats in the classroom; more than enough for all twenty nine of them. Amongst all the students, Ma Qun and Zhou Weiqing were the tallest and largest, so they naturally were seated at the back. Originally, Zhou Weiqing wanted Shangguan Bing'er to sit next to him, but she refused. Her reason was simple – if she sat next to him, he would just try to get intimate all the time and how could they pay attention in class.
Ming Hua stood at the podium in the front. At this moment, there was no longer any smile on her face, and she looked the picture of a very serious teacher. However, she looked just so sexy and appealing… Most of the male students were just staring at her. This was the first time that they felt that perhaps it was so much luckier to be in the commoner class! At least, the noble class shouldn't have such a great teacher like Ming Hua right?
Ming Hua said: "Hello everyone, as mentioned previously, my name is Ming Hua. For the next four years, I will be your class teacher. I shall not speak further about miscellaneous things… Comparing talents, our commoner class is definitely higher than any of the noble classes. In the future, for any tests or examinations that are held, our target it always the number one position. Actual classes will start tomorrow. Here is the class schedule… Everyone pass it around." With that, she flicked her hand, and a piece of paper appeared in her palm. Clearly, she also had a spatial ring or necklace of some sort.
She passed the class schedule to a student in the front row.
Seated at the back, Zhou Weiqing was one of the last to get the schedule. Looking at it, he felt a headache coming on… the main classes were the entire continent's history, geography, intelligence and spycraft, battle analysis, battle tactics, individual military capabilities, sand table simulations and other battle simulation classes… These were some of the nearly dozen different classes they had. Everyday, there were two big classes, one in the morning, and one in the afternoon, and the day ended near evening time. Their entire week was packed, with only one off day. To those people like Zhou Weiqing, who had not attended an earlier, intermediate military high school, this was quite a shock.
Having given out the class schedule and seen that everyone had looked through it, Ming Hua continued: "No one is allowed to miss classes, be late, or leave early. There will be a test every month, and an examination every end of the year. Those who do not pass the annual examination will be forced to leave the academy. In the afternoon, all of you can go to the student affairs department to get your class materials and books. In the future, if you all have any other questions, you can ask me. The courses I will mainly be teaching will be the following three – intelligence and spycraft, battle analysis and individual military capabilities."
Ma Qun, who was seated next to Zhou Weiqing, immediately called out excitedly: "Teacher… In the individual military capabilities class… Does that mean we can spar with you? If there is any physical contact… Heh heh… Teacher won't blame us right?"
Ming Hua gave a faint smile, with a faintly sly, evil tinge in it. "Of course not. However… To spar with me… You will have to be careful… As I won't hold back. Your name is Ma Qun right? I've heard that you are a pure defensive Heavenly Jewel Master…"
Ma Qun immediately puffed up his chest and said: "Yes teacher! My Heavenly Energy is already at the Seventh Level of the Heavenly Jing Energy stage… Almost reaching my second set of Jewels."
Ming Hua nodded and said: "Very good. Tomorrow we have an individual military capabilities class. I do not mind sparring with you personally."
Ma Qun was overjoyed. Although Ming Hua was a teacher, but this was after all a military academy school… He did not think that such a frail looking beauty like Ming Hua would be much stronger than him. Even if she were slightly stronger, he was confident in his defence… To be hit by a beauty like that… It was another kind of enjoyment! If he could manage to touch her… Heh heh… That would be awesome.
Zhou Weiqing gave Ma Qun a pitiful look, knowing full well Ming Hua's power. Of course, he did not give him any warning. Heh… To spar with Ming Hua, that fellow would be in deep trouble.
Ming Hua's gaze moved from Ma Qun to rest on Zhou Weiqing as she continued speaking: "Earlier, before the opening ceremony, Student Zhou Weiqing said that he wants to be our class rep, and will upkeep all of your requirements for Consolidating Equipment Scrolls and Skill Storing. I am very happy to have such a kind student. Does anyone have any issues with him being the class rep?"
Without question… Everyone voted for Zhou Weiqing, who couldn't help but give Ming Hua a smug look.
Ming Hua did not display any of her character when she had fought Zhou Weiqing yesterday, looking much like a normal teacher instead. "In that case, Zhou Weiqing will now be our class rep. Kou Rui, I've seen your entrance examination answers… in terms of battlefield analysis, you have displayed much talent in terms of intelligence and spycraft, with much innovation in the guerilla combat style. I believe that you have very high talent in this area, and I will put you in charge of collecting all the information on all your classmates' information for Skill Storing and Consolidating Equipment. After doing so, you can pass the information to your class rep."
Chapter 162: Mysterious White Haired Young Lady (2)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Kou Rui nodded in agreement. Having seen Zhou Weiqing create the Consolidated Equipment Scroll in front of everyone, he now had a rather blind fanaticism towards Zhou Weiqing.
Ming Hua said: "Now, I want all of you to take turns standing up and doing a self-introduction, so that all of you can get to know each other."
The introduction started from the front row, and this time Zhou Weiqing paid full attention. The first to stand up and do the introduction was Kou Rui… after all, he was of rather short stature, and was sitting right in front.
"Hello everyone, my name is Kou Rui… 17 years old… I graduated from the Oden City's Military High School. My main focus is on intelligence gathering and spycraft. I am a mid level Physical Shi Master, and my Physical Jewel is a mix of Agility and Coordination."
Following his introduction, all the other students also did so in a similar manner. When it was Yan Zhexi's turn to introduce himself, it especially drew Zhou Weiqing's attention. "Yan Zhexi… 17 years old. Mid Level Heavenly Shi Master. My Physical Jewel is the Stamina attribute." As with the normal rules with Heavenly Jewel Masters, he did not reveal his Elemental Jewel attributes.
Stamina Attribute? Zhou Weiqing had some idea of this attribute… but this was the first time he had seen a pure Stamina Attribute Heavenly Jewel Master. Any Jewel Masters with such an attribute usually had great sustaining capabilities in combat, and were also normally with great resilience of character. Mu En had once told him that those opponents with Stamina Attributes were one of the toughest to tangle up with, and if he did so, he should quickly destroy them totally and never drag out the fight.
Zhou Weiqing was the last to do his self introduction. When it was his turn, he slowly stood up, basking in the attention, and said with a graceful smile: "Hello, my name is Zhou Weiqing. I'm an upper level Heavenly Shi Master. My Physical Jewel is of the Strength Attribute, and as you all already know, my Elemental Jewel is of the Spatial Attribute. To be honest, I have never had any prior training with regards to military knowledge, but what I do know is that unity is of utmost importance in any group. Since I am now the class rep and leader… My hope is that we will be able to work together well, and in four years, for us to become the best class in the history of this academy!"
Ming Hua smiled and clapped. "That is also my hope. Alright, that is all for today, all of you can go back to rest. Class rep, please come with me to my office." As she said that, she walked out of the class.
Ma Qun looked at Zhou Weiqing with a face full of jealousy, saying: "Class rep, could it be that… Teacher Ming Hua has fallen for you? No… I look just as suave as you do…"
Zhou Weiqing grinned and said: "Heh, you big fool. Good luck in your spar with her tomorrow. You can go hear for yourself what name does the Flower of Hades' Underworld have…" After saying that, he stood up and stretched lazily. As he passed by Shangguan Bing'er, he saw her worried look and smiled faintly, saying: "Don't worry, I know how to handle myself. You head home first okay."
Shangguan Bing'er agreed softly, blushing a little. She felt as if Zhou Weiqing was talking to her like a husband to his wife, and that embarrassed her, but also gave her a sweet feeling in the heart.
Ming Hua was standing outside the classroom waiting for him, and when he came out, she led the way. Following in her footsteps, Zhou Weiqing couldn't help but stare at her alluring buttocks as she walked, swaying enticingly like a ripe peach. He was a young teenager after all, and boys at that age all had strong needs, and with Shangguan Bing'er at his side where he could see but not touch… made his desires only stronger. Furthermore, Ming Hua was indeed extremely beautiful and sexy, and his gaze grew rather dazed.
As they walked to the stairs, Ming Hua suddenly stopped and turned around. Seeing Zhou Weiqing's awkward look on his face, she couldn't help but let loose a giggle. In a low voice that only the two of them could hear, she said: "What are you looking at? Do you want to touch..?"
Her voice was soft and alluring, as if it were softly tickling at Zhou Weiqing's heart. Almost subconsciously, he nodded and said "Yes…"
Ming Hua smiled faintly and said: "Let me see the true form of your Elemental Jewel, and I'll consider it…"
Hearing that, Zhou Weiqing awakened suddenly, a cold feeling in his heart. He said in great confusion: "True form? What are you talking about?"
Ming Hua rolled her eyes at him, muttering softly to herself: "Keep acting then… Hmph!" Saying that, she continued walking up the stairs.
Under Ming Hua's leadership, the two of them reached the fourth level, where all the teachers' offices were. Ming Hua moved to one which was deeper and opened the door, before motioning Zhou Weiqing to enter.
The office wasn't big, only about twenty square metres large, and there were many pots of green vegetation around the room, making it full of life. There was only a single desk, clearly it was Ming Hua's personal office. The Fei Li Military Empire was one of the top academies in the entire Empire, and their treatment of their teachers were one of the best.
Ming Hua motioned for Zhou Weiqing to sit at the couch in front of her desk. She leaned on the desk, saying a little flirtatiously: "My dear selfless and altruistic young class rep, so how you planning to pay your debt to me from yesterday?"
Zhou Weiqing acted dumb, saying innocently: "Debt? What debt? I have never owed money to anyone…"
Ming Hua gave a cold humph and said: "Yesterday… you hit me until it hurt so much… how could I let it go like that? Furthermore… the entire rent was paid by me…" Her voice was soft and velvety, sounding pleasantly captivating. However, although Zhou Weiqing was lustful, he had already been forewarned by her previous comments… and managed to resist.
"Teacher Ming Hua… that was you picking the fight… how can you blame me! Furthermore, I already pulled my punches… if not, we might have to change a class teacher in charge by now…"
Ming Hua smiled faintly and said: "Let's cut to the chase, Zhou Weiqing. I know you have an Alexandrite Cat's Eye Elemental Jewel… let me see its true form and I promise that you will have a great four years ahead in the academy. Otherwise… hmph… with my status at the academy, it will be easy for me to cause trouble for you. Do not think that you can have it easy now that you have gotten the approval of Dean Xiao Shi… as long as I tell others about your Evil Attribute, the Skill Storing Palace will come after you… and no one will be willing to protect you!"
Hearing the words 'Evil Attribute', a massive shock reverberated through Zhou Weiqing's heart. Although he tried to keep his emotions in check, his face changed and he said coldly: "Teacher Ming Hua… I have no idea what you are saying."
Ming Hua seemed to be confident that she held all the cards in her hands, and she smiled beatifically as she poured a cup of water and drank from it. After taking a sip, she said: "Do you really not understand? Don't try to hide the fact that you have the Evil Attribute. If you do not have that attribute, how could you possibly reverse the drain on my Hades' Flower and Devour it instead? Not only do you have the Evil Attribute, it is also the strongest I have ever seen in my life… If I'm not wrong, you are able to control your Demonic Change… right? My dear student, Zhou Weiqing…"
With a loud scraping sound, the couch was pushed back as Zhou Weiqing leapt to his feet suddenly. In that instant, an unbelievable killing intent erupted from him, and a thick bloodlust flashed in his eyes… Such an intense grim and ominous aura was so thick that Ming Hua almost lost grip of the cup, her face growing a few shades paler.
"I warn you… Zhou Weiqing. This is the academy grounds, and there are teachers all around this level, near my office. Many of them are stronger than you. If you try anything… then you are dead." Ming Hua's heart was beating rapidly. In that instant, the sheer violent killing intent that Zhou Weiqing had unleashed was just too shocking.
All of a sudden, the killing aura vanished as Zhou Weiqing resumed his normal look, smiling and saying to Ming Hua. "Teacher, I think you are mistaken. It's time for me to go. You mentioned that I can't take action here… is that a hint to me that I should wait til you go home?"
Ming Hua gave a cold laugh and said: "If you dare step out one step, I'll immediately tell everyone about your Evil Attribute. Do you think you still have the chance to reach home?"
Zhou Weiqing sighed lightly, saying gracefully: "Sometimes… do not be too full of yourself. There are many things that… aren't as they seem on the surface. Sigh… since teacher has forced me, I will show you my Elemental Jewel. As you wish, here it is, take a good look!"
As he said that, he slowly raised his left hand, pulling back the long sleeve hiding his wrist and revealing it. As he circulated his Heavenly Energy slowly, his Heavenly Jewels appeared in a flash of white light.
This time, it was Ming Hua's turn for her expression to change. All she saw in front of her were three gold-green Cat's Eye Elemental Jewels, shining brilliantly as they spun around Zhou Weiqing's left wrist, the unique aura of the Spatial Attribute clear and distinct.
"That's not possible!" Ming Hua exclaimed involuntarily. She was extremely confident of her judgement… but had never expected to see that Zhou Weiqing's Elemental Jewels were actually really the Spatial Attribute's God-Green Cat's Eye Jewels!
Zhou Weiqing smiled and said: "As I said, teacher, you are overconfident. Alright… if there is nothing else, I'll take my leave now. Of course, if teacher wants to visit my room late at night, I won't reject that… If I haven't judged wrongly, you are still a virgin… no matter how hard you try acting seductive… it just isn't as realistic! Bye!"
After saying that, Zhou Weiqing spun around and left the room. However, after leaving the room, his facial expression changed once more, into a serious look. Ming Hua had actually guessed that he had the Evil Attribute, and even guessed that he had a controllable Demonic Change! This was just too great a threat to him… Should I kill her off somehow?
After Zhou Weiqing had left, Ming Hua's face was pale in anger. After a while, she suddenly flung her hand out, dashing the cup into the ground and smashing it into smithereens. Gritting her teeth, she said: "Zhou Weiqing… you bastard… I won't forgive you!"
After a while more, her heavy breathing finally calmed down… and as reason returned to her eyes, she revealed a look of deep thought.
"That's definitely impossible… he definitely has the Evil Attribute. Furthermore, when he launched his final attack yesterday, he definitely used more than one other attribute's Control Skills… Those were definitely not of the Spatial Attribute. I'm a Low Level Zun Stage Heavenly Master, how could I be mistaken about that? There must be something I am overlooking… or perhaps… he has some unique object that can hide his true Elemental Jewel?! That must be it!"
"Zhou Weiqing… just you wait… I will definitely find out what is your true attributes… Just you wait…!"
Chapter 163: Mysterious White Haired Young Lady (3)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
Finally, she stopped soliloquizing, and an Evil light flashed in her eyes, catching herself by surprise. In fright, she quickly controlled her emotions, pushing down the Evil aura and it slowly dissipated.
"What method do I have to make this fellow admit it?" Ming Hua pondered to herself, lost in thought.
At the other side, Zhou Weiqing was also struggling in his heart as he walked down the stairs. Shangguan Bing'er had told him before that those Heavenly Jewel Masters who had the Evil Attribute, especially those who had the Demonic Change, were hunted by all the Skill Storing Palaces of all the large Empires of the entire Continent! If he were found out, then even if he were lucky enough to survive, he would have no place left to go, not even being able to return to the Heavenly Bow Empire, and would have to spend the rest of his life hiding.
No, definitely not! Although he did not have much ambitions, his greatest wish was still to strengthen the Heavenly Bow Empire… to let every citizen of the Heavenly Bow Empire be proud to be its citizen!
Taking a deep breath, Zhou Weiqing reinforced the belief in his heart. Towards such a serious danger to himself, he could not afford to be soft hearted. Even if it were Ming Yu's sister… he could not let her live. He would have to seize the opportunity before she determined for certain that he truly had the Evil Attribute and told someone else… and remove the threat… permanently.
The thick killing intent appeared once more in Zhou Weiqing's heart. Although he was rather unwilling to kill women, especially one so beautiful like Ming Hua, this would concern not just his own future, but also Shangguan Bing'er's, and possibly even his own Empire's fate! He pledged to himself resolutely… Tonight… If Ming Hua dared come home, he would take care of her, otherwise he would not be able to sleep peacefully.
"Zhou Weiqing." Just as that moment, a rather low voice jolted him out of his thoughts.
As Zhou Weiqing lifted his head to look around him, he found that he had somehow walked himself to the first level of the school building, and Zang Lang was right in front of him at the entrance of the stairs.
"Let's talk." Zang Lang's gaze was low and rather downcast.
"Speak then." Zhou Weiqing was not in a good mood due to Ming Hua's issues, and did not want to tangle himself in more further issues.
Zang Lang said: "You are so similar to how I was when I first entered the academy… But at that time, I was far weaker than you are now… not to even mention your abilities as a Consolidating Equipment Master. You know… If anyone had the choice, who would want to become a dog… Become a slave? Who wouldn't want to stand up tall as a human?"
"However, as a Jewel Master, if we aren't able to Consolidate Equipment or Store Skills, then we will forever be useless. As such, there are many who have suffered since a young age and aren't as resolute about keeping their freedom, who will choose to submit to noble families or the Skill Storing Palace, to grow strong and prove themselves. Of course, at the same time, they give up their freedom… And any future accomplishments they have are for their masters to enjoy. However, even though I do not like their choice, nor would I ever do it myself, I would never stop them from making that choice… Because I have no way of helping them…"
Zhou Weiqing said passively: "What is your point in telling me all of that?"
Zang Lang said: "I do not have that ability, but you do! Zhou Weiqing, when you showed your ability as a Consolidating Equipment Master, perhaps you might not have noticed it, but all the other commoner students looked to you with fiery hot gazes. I'm here this time to represent those commoner student seniors who have not submitted to either noble families or the Skill Storing Palace. There are a total of forty four of us… If you are willing to help us like your classmates… we will all swear fealty to you."
Zhou Weiqing laughed, looking at Zang Lang rather mockingly. "Swear fealty? Senior Zang Lang… are you joking? What is the basis that I should trust that you all will really swear fealty to me? Your choice of me… is merely because I am unable to restrict you… without the restriction of a Darkness Seal… won't you all be able to leave whenever you want? Do you know how much I have to expend to upkeep more than 40 Jewel Masters? It's at least 500,000 gold coins right… even my homeland, Heavenly Bow Empire, will not be able to sustain such an expenditure… and such a massive expenditure in exchange for only a simple 'promise' of fealty? Do you really think I am crazy?"
Zang Lang started a little, then said angrily: "Zhou Weiqing, you are insulting my honour."
Zhou Weiqing gave a disdainful humph. "Honour? What is that worth? If I am willing to do something… no matter how difficult it is, no matter the cost to myself, I will still do my best to do it. However, if it is something I am not willing to do… no one can force me to do it. For me, supporting and upkeeping my classmates for free is something I want to do, because I don't want to see the people by my side be forced into submission to noble families or the Skill Storing Palace. However, I am not running a charity, and do not have any obligation to do so for anyone else. Your simple sentence, just a possibly empty promise, what is the point of it for me? If you want my help, that is also possible… but I need you all to submit to my Sealing. Do you all dare? In that case… what would be the difference from submitting to a noble family?"
Zang Lang took a deep breath… veins bulging out obviously on his bald head as he clenched his fists tightly… glaring at Zhou Weiqing.
Zhou Weiqing walked down the steps to him and said: "I know what you want to say… that us commoner students are in the same boat, and we need to bind ourselves together to be able to deal with the noble students. However, I really do not have any reason to believe you all, to spend millions of gold just for a simple worded promise… This is just not possible, don't you think so, Senior? You are too arrogant."
Zang Lang's tightly clenched fists slowly relaxed… his angry gaze slowly turning confused. Taking deep breaths, he tried to calm himself down.
"What are your conditions then?" He said solemnly.
Zhou Weiqing said in a relaxed tone: "Everyone's thinking changes as they age… promises are never as reliable as bindings. There are forty four of you, and what I want is… forty four followers who are bound by Seals. Senior Zang Lang, I am not a good person, but I am definitely a person who protects his own well. I'm also not afraid to tell you this… I am not even seventeen years old, and I am already a Mid Level Consolidating Equipment Master. Before I graduate, I will definitely be at least a high level Consolidating Equipment Master. And within ten years, I will definitely be a Consolidating Equipment Grandmaster… or even a Zong Stage Consolidating Equipment Master. In the future, I do not know if I can be a God Tier Consolidating Equipment Master, but I have at least a seventy percent confidence in doing so. Being Darkness Sealed may be the same, but following a future God Tier Consolidating Equipment Master… I do not need to tell you the benefits right?"
"Wait… You do not need to rush into any decisions… I'm still going to be a student for the next few years. If by the time of my graduation I have yet to reach the level of High Stage Consolidating Equipment Master, you can just treat all that I said as bullshit."
Zang Lang hesitated. The reason was simple… The words… 'God Tier'.
In the history of the entire main continent, every God Tier Consolidating Equipment Master have been commanding presences, overrunning the world as legendary figures. And those who followed by their sides were all well known, powerful Heavenly Jewel Masters as well. Although Zhou Weiqing did not state things clearly, he knew that if in the future Zhou Weiqing really became a God Tier Consolidating Equipment Master, even Zong Stage Heavenly Jewel Masters might not have the qualification to be his followers. It was only because Zhou Weiqing was currently still relatively far from his goal, but with his talent, it was still quite a high probability. At this moment, Jewel Masters like him… even ordinary Physical and Elemental Jewel Masters, still had the qualification to follow him. It would be a bet, but if in the future Zhou Weiqing truly became a God Tier Consolidating Equipment MAster, these followers who had chose to bet on him early would also become powerful in their own right.
"Zhou Weiqing, if it is just following you in a personal context… then you will have to personally Seal us yourself. Although the Spatial Attribute has some Sealing capabilities, but they are few and far between, and also not comparable to the Darkness Attributes. Even if we choose to follow you, how will you accomplish the Sealing?"
Zhou Weiqing lifted up his hand and patted Zang Lang on his shoulders, saying: "Since I've said that, then I can naturally do it. You just think about it for now…" After saying that, he walked out of the door. At the same time, Zang Lang was shocked in his heart.
The reason was simple. He was currently unable to move, a strong sense of being constrained filling his entire body. That dark, cold feeling gave him the chills, causing goosebumps to raise up on his skin, as he felt as if his body was tied up by more than a dozen invisible ropes.
As a Heavenly Jewel Master, Zang Lang naturally knew what that was… it… it was clearly one of the Darkness Control Skills! Wasn't Zhou Weiqing a Spatial Attribute Heavenly Jewel Master? What about this Darkness Attribute?! Could it be… his Elemental Jewel was of multiple attributes?
In that instant, Zang Lang's mind was totally blank. Zhou Weiqing's mocking grin as he left just now was seared into his brain.
Zhou Weiqing returned to his class to meet back up with Shangguan Bing'er and return home. After all, the opening ceremony was now over, and they had nothing left to do in the academy for today. At the same time, he needed to consider his options on how to deal with Ming Hua.
To be honest, what just happened with Zang Lang had been totally spur of the moment. According to his original plan, it was to slowly and steadily influence the commoner students and bring them to his side, and gradually reach his goal. However, after being provoked by Ming Hua today, he felt like he could no longer move at a slow pace.
In the opening ceremony, what he had done might seem crazy, but it was actually something he had thought through and planned. Heavily injuring Ding Chen was a display of his power, a sort of threat and awe-inspiring tool… not just to the other commoner students, but also to those noble students who were thinking of getting him and Shangguan Bing'er to submit to them. It was also a sign to them about his character, that not only was he powerful, he was also willing to go further and not show mercy to those who were against him. This would not only leave a deep impression on them, and also decrease the chances that they would dare approach Shangguan Bing'er.
After that, he had used an arrogant attitude to ask the commoner freshmen students to not submit to the noble families. At that time, everyone had thought he had gone crazy, but dared not open their mouths due to his power. This allowed Zhou Weiqing to show off his power as a Consolidating Equipment Master… which was the key part of his plan.
Chapter 164: please let go of me (1)
Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations
All Jewel Masters knew the importance of Consolidating Equipment Masters. In addition to that, Zhou Weiqing had taken out 450,000 gold coins for his classmates to Store Skills, which further 'bought' more popularity. Including his inspiring speech about being human and having backbones, he had in that instant gotten the acceptance of all his classmates. The next step of his plan would be to continually influence them throughout the next few years, causing them to feel a sense of reliance on him. Four years was a long time, and he was confident of letting these classmates around him to see him as a leader.
The Heavenly Bow Empire was just too weak now. After witnessing the true power of the Fei Li Empire, only then did Zhou Weiqing see the huge difference, to see how weak his own country really was. In order to strengthen it slowly, the first thing was to recruit more talents. How many Jewel Masters were there in the entire Heavenly Bow Empire? Furthermore, those commoners who could enter the Fei Li Imperial Family Military Academy were all extremely great talents with various individual skills… not just in terms of individual power as Jewel Masters, but also military capabilities! If he could recruit just some of them for his use, it would be the first stepping stone in his ambition of building up the Heavenly Bow Empire.
Zhou Weiqing believed that his father had originally thought like that as well. However, although his father was extremely powerful, he did not have the conditions necessary to draw in other Jewel Masters to follow him. However, Zhou Weiqing was different, with his status as a Consolidating Equipment Master, especially since his teacher Huyan Aobo had recognized his talents as a Consolidating Equipment Master as sheer genius. With such a status, he believed that he could totally draw in talents follow him. In such a school like the Fei Li Imperial Family Military Academy, where there were tons of talents and different genius in various fields around, if he just simply only studied for four years, that would be an immense waste of opportunity. After all, no matter how powerful, there was ultimately a limit to what a single person. Just like Admiral Zhou, as a powerful Mid Level Zong Stage Heavenly Jewel Master, and a talented military genius to boot, he was still unable to change the fact that the Heavenly Bow Empire was in trouble, barely able to hold their enemies at bay.
It was just because of this grand plan and ambition he had in his heart that Zhou Weiqing had sparked such a strong killing instinct in his heart after getting threatened by Ming Hua. Plans were just that – plans, and they were always subjected to the countless myriad of changes from the world around. What he had to do was to… deal with all these outside influences.
The sense of danger that Ming Hua had brought to him had also caused him to lose his patience in slowly bringing the commoner students to his side, instead throwing out his conditions directly to the seniors. He could not afford to wait til he became a God Tier Consolidating Equipment Master before starting to attract followers, as that would be way too late. To strengthen his country, it had to be done so step by step, over time. The path to him becoming a God Tier Consolidating Equipment Master was still long and winding, and it would take him a long time to do so, time which the Heavenly Bow Empire did not have, with the pressure from the Kalise Empire who was now supported by the Bai Da Empire.
As for whether or not Zang Lang and the other seniors would follow him, Zhou Weiqing had no idea. As such, he needed to display not just his strength, but also his personality and attitude, and most especially his power as a Consolidating Equipment Master. To draw these talents in following him, he had to attract them with everything he could.
Returning to the classroom, Zhou Weiqing was surprised to see that all the classmates had not left, and they were chit chatting with each other. Shangguan Bing'er was surrounded by a few of the other female students.
Seeing that Zhou Weiqing had returned, the entire classroom instantly quietened down. Zhou Weiqing realised what was up, and went up to the podium.
Placing both his hands on the podium, he said: "Let me just say a few words, and everyone should go back to rest."
Everyone's gaze fell onto Zhou Weiqing, and those who were standing also returned to their seats. Today, Zhou Weiqing had displayed his sheer combat power and his status as a Consolidating Equipment Master, in addition to the promise of helping upkeep them, all of them were looking up to him with much admiration.
Zhou Weiqing had a faint smile on his face. At this moment, he looked just like a innocent, harmless boy. "Later, when all of you are registering with Kou Rui, you should clearly state your Heavenly Energy cultivation level. For Elemental Jewel Masters, if you want to Skill Store, just register with Yan Zhexi, he will be the guardian of the storage card. Every weekend, during our day's break from the Academy, those who have registered can go together with him, and he will pay. In the future, I will be selling some extra Consolidating Equipment Scrolls to replenish the funds as well, so no worries about it running out too quickly. As for Physical Jewel Masters, when you register, do note what your Physical Jewel Attribute is, as well as what sort of route you are looking to develop to, and what sort of weapon you wish to Consolidate. In that way, I can design your Consolidating Equipment Scrolls according to your personal needs."
As he said that, he paused a moment. He could obviously see the effect of his words on the rest of the students, especially when he talked about the personalized Consolidating Equipment Scrolls, many of their eyes lit up. There were more Physical Jewel Masters than Elemental Jewel Masters, and their need for Consolidating Equipment Scrolls were extremely high, not to mention having them designed specially for their needs! This was something that not even those Heavenly Jewel Masters who submit to noble families or the Skill Storing Palace may not enjoy!
Zhou Weiqing smiled in satisfaction and continued: "I also have another suggestion. If it is a Physical Jewel Master who does not have a single piece of Consolidated Equipment, you should register for one quickly, to ensure you have one for self protection. However, if you already have a piece of Consolidated Equipment, you might want to wait a little while and concentrate on cultivating your Heavenly Energy. Within two years, I believe I will be able to become a high level Consolidating Equipment Master."
"At that time, I should be able to start trying to create Consolidating Equipment Scrolls with sockets, or even start on Consolidating Equipment Sets. Of course, those with sockets are only useful for Heavenly Jewel Masters, but Consolidating Equipment Sets will be great even for ordinary Physical Jewel Masters."
If we were to describe the eyes of the students earlier to be fanatical, they were now dazed and dumbfounded. Consolidated Equipment with sockets? Consolidated Equipment Sets? Those things were almost myths to them, not only had they not seen them before, they had barely even dreamed about them before!
Seeing that his speech had done his intended effect, Zhou Weiqing smiled and said: "Alright, that's all I have to say. Of course, that is just my suggestion, if anyone is unable to wait, you can still go ahead and register for Consolidating Equipment Scrolls. I can at least guarantee you will succeed in Consolidating Equipment… if a single set isn't able to do it, we'll just do a second set. Bing'er, please stand up."
Shangguan Bing'er started upon hearing Zhou Weiqing call upon her, but of course she wouldn't not give him face now, and stood up.
Zhou Weiqing's smile sudden disappeared and he said seriously: "All classmates, now, let me reintroduce this person to you all seriously. This beautiful young lady is Shangguan Bing'er, my wife. In the future, none of you other guys are allowed to have any designs on her… if not… heh heh."
"Little Fatty, what are you saying!" Shangguan Bing'er started in surprise, before blushing deep red and running out of the classroom.
Kou Rui grinned and shouted out: "Sister in law!" And all the rest of the class burst out laughing.
Zhou Weiqing had an extraordinarily thick skin, and he did not care about the teasing, instead waving towards the rest of the class in farewell before chasing after Shangguan Bing'er. As soon as he left, Kou Rui was immediately surrounded by the rest of the classmates, everyone just so eager to register themselves. Even Yan Zhexi and Ma Qun, the two Heavenly Jewel Masters, were no different.
Zhou Weiqing ran all the way to the entrance of the academy before he finally caught up to Shangguan Bing'er. "Bing'er, slower! Wait for me!"
Shangguan Bing'er turned her head around, flushed totally red as she scolded him: "What were you saying just now! How can I face our classmates next time!"
Zhou Weiqing grinned and said: "Who asked you to be so beautiful, so enchanting! I had to declare my ownership…"
Shangguan Bing'er said exasperatedly: "What ownership? Am I an object? Hmph!"
Zhou Weiqing immediately shook his head. "No, no, of course not. What I meant is, to proclaim that you own me, I am your Little Fatty after all! Look at me, I'm so handsome and suave, gentle and kind, honest yet cute, and I also know how to make Consolidating Equipment Scrolls. Now, if other beauties try to chase me, what could I possibly do? This way, I can proclaim that you already own me, and know that I belong to you, who dares to try to chase me… even if they do, they'll have to compare themselves to you right? If they try comparing themselves to you… they'll be ashamed and run off. See, this is all for your sake!"
Looking at his shameless proclamation, Shangguan Bing'er couldn't help but giggle. "Gentle and kind… hahaha. I am pretty sure that many people think of you of some fierce monster."
Seeing that she was no longer angry, Zhou Weiqing immediately went closer to her, holding her by her slim waist as he grinned and said: "As long as my dear Bing'er doesn't treat me as a monster, that is fine…"
Shangguan Bing'er said in a serious tone: "Little Fatty, what you did today, was it to recruit all our classmates in the future to help our Heavenly Bow Empire?"
Zhou Weiqing smiled faintly and said: "It's still too early to tell, but all you need to know is that I, your husband, has a long term goal in mind. Don't worry, I will handle it well, you just need to concentrate on studying, and I will deal with the other things To be honest, just looking at the class schedule today gave me a headache… I do not have any foundation in military matters, and I doubt I can learn much from there. In the future, I'll have to depend on you, especially for examinations… remember to let me copy!"
Shangguan Bing'er furrowed her brow: "Little Fatty, that will not do… How about, I help tutor you in some of the foundations of military knowledge?"
Zhou Weiqing shook his head and said: "No, I do not have the time for that. To upkeep that whole class of students, it isn't that easy. Just creating Consolidating Equipment Scrolls for them and for sale, and cultivating my own Heavenly Energy, that will take up all of my spare time. As for studying, whatever I can pick up from classes, so be it."
Shangguan Bing'er said rather worriedly: "But… you need to succeed Admiral Zhou in the future, to lead our Heavenly Bow Empire armies!"
Zhou Weiqing smiled and said: "Bing'er, you haven��t understood what I meant. As a commander in chief, I feel that it isn't totally necessary to be great in every aspect of military matters. As long as I have the ability to command a group of outstanding military talents, that would be sufficient…"
Shangguan Bing'er started in surprise as she mulled through his words. Although she felt that Zhou Weiqing's words were rather warped logic, but it did make sense in a way. Having spent the past two years in the Heavenly Bow Unit, Zhou Weiqing had changed a lot, not just in his stature, but his original scoundrel ways had also been well hidden from the world now. On the surface, he sometimes seemed arrogant, but she knew that he had just kept all his true feelings and emotions hidden. Although he wasn't even seventeen years old yet, he was already much more mature and reserved than most adults.