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Chapter 173: Tian Er (2)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

At the same time, the two skills had fused together to form the Dual Attribute Skill Silver Emperor Spatial Rend Slash, the strongest final skill of the Silver Emperor!

Of course, Zhou Weiqing's Silver Emperor Spatial Rend Slash was not comparable in any way to the Silver Emperor's. If it were the Silver Emperor unleashing it, it would likely be able to heavily injure Ming Wu, or even kill him. However, the Hammer had at least boosted it by a significant amount, not to mention the original destructive power of the Hammer itself.

Just from the various boosts to strength alone, this strike by Zhou Weiqing was more than ten times his usual power. After absorbing the black pearl, he had already been stronger than any ordinary Strength Type Heavenly Jewel Master, let alone now with a ten times boost! Adding on to that the fearsome Silver Emperor Spatial Rend Slash being boosted by the Legendary Hammers… this blow was indeed powerful enough to injure Ming Wu.

Still, if not for his elaborate plan in making Ming Wu underestimate him, and most importantly that first punch which had resulted in Ming Wu striking nothing and using his strength wrongly and almost injuring himself, it was likely that this powerful blow could be easily blocked by Ming Wu. After all, the power difference between the two of them was just too huge. However, that was the true beauty of the hammers, being able to switch between real and fake. Once someone was tricked by it and used their strength wrongly, it would open them up to a true powerful strike by the other hammer. In Ming Wu's case, it had been his sheer power that saved his life by forcefully moving his head away from the blow.

"Father!!!" Ming Hua cried out loud, running towards the battle ground.

Zhou Weiqing did not try to make another move to escape. He knew clearly that it would be futile, he was utterly exhausted physically, mentally and also drained of all his Heavenly Energy, and even his Demonic Change had dissipated as he was no longer able to sustain it, and the black tattoos were disappearing slowly. From that, one could tell how much he had expended during that fight – not just in terms of energy, but also mentally.

A strong sense of exhaustion enveloped his mind and body, feeling an emptiness within him. Slumping down on the floor, he could not even gather the energy to get up.

In the end, he had failed. The difference in power was just too huge. When he had succeeded in striking Ming Wu, Zhou Weiqing could feel that his attempt to kill Ming Wu had failed. The defense of the 8-piece Consolidated Equipment Set coupled with his massive Heavenly Energy was just too much.

Currently, his heart was filled with sorrow. Is this it? That was the difference in power! Will I be forced to join this Heavenly Demon Sect?

*Bang*! Another loud explosion rang out and a gold figure leapt up, shabby and disheveled. It was Ming Wu, but currently he looked nothing like the well groomed, calm and unflurried self that he was earlier. Although he was still wearing his Consolidated Equipment Set, its glow was dim and the right shoulder pauldrons was totally caved in, with several obvious cracks on it. His right arm was flopping uselessly at his side; although Zhou Weiqing had failed to kill him with that blow, it had still managed to totally destroy his shoulder bones. If not for their huge power difference, even if Zhou Weiqing had not struck his head, that blow might still have killed him.

The expression on Ming Wu's face was extremely ugly now. After all, as a 9-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master facing a 3-Jeweled Jewel Master, for him to sustain such a heavy injury was almost unimaginable.

Lifting up his left hand, a soft but thick green light covered his right shoulder. After all, his Elemental Jewel was of the Life and Demonic Attributes. However, even for such a powerful Life Attribute Heavenly Jewel Master, it would not be easy to completely recover from the injury on his shoulder. After all, the Legendary Hammer had pulverized the shoulder bones, and it would not be so easily dealt with.

"Little brat, you are so savage, my entire right shoulder has been shattered. If not for the fact I managed to dodge quickly, it would have been my head that was shattered." Ming Wu said coldly to Zhou Weiqing.

Seeing her father injured so badly, Ming Hua's eyes turned red. "I'll kill you!" She cried out angrily as she charged towards Zhou Weiqing.

However, she was quickly stopped by Ming Wu, who held her back with his left hand. At this time, he actually smiled, causing the exhausted Zhou Weiqing to start in surprise.

"What are you smiling about?" Zhou Weiqing asked suspiciously.

Ming Wu smiled and said: "I was too overconfident and underestimated you. I originally thought I could easily take you down without using any Skills or Consolidated Equipment, but never expected that you would trick me. It's okay though, I can always recover from my wounds, but if I miss out on such a great talent like you, then I will regret it for the rest of my life. I broke my word, and you shattered my shoulder, I shall count it as even then. I will not pursue it further, as we will be comrades in the future. You are an intelligent young man, and I need not say more."

Although Ming Wu was furious that his shoulder had been shattered, but who was he? He was one of the top powerhouses in the world. As he thought further, his mood turned better. After all, the more talented Zhou Weiqing was, the greater the benefit it would be for his Heavenly Demon Sect right? No matter how amazing his talent was, Zhou Weiqing still had too much growing to do before he was strong enough. Earlier, if Ming Wu had taken him seriously and gone full out, Zhou Weiqing would not even have the opportunity to even take any action. Once he had gone through the ceremony of the Heavenly Demon Sect, he would be one of them, and Ming Wu felt that his wound was nothing in comparison. Furthermore, his status in the Sect would rise rapidly if he brought Zhou Weiqing in.

What he admired most about Zhou Weiqing was not just his Heavenly Jewel Master talent, but more importantly his intelligence and steady mindset. WIthout question, being able to injure Ming Wu was the result of Zhou Weiqing's almost perfect planning and control. Up until the final blow, Ming Wu had not felt anything amiss nor sensed any danger… to be able to do something like that, what kind of intelligence would it take?

Zhou Weiqing's lips were pursed as his twelve energy whirlpools revolved at their maximum speed, attempting to recover as much as possible to his drained body. However, he was definitely not in a good mood right now.

By now, he felt totally at a loss, with nothing left to try. The exhaustion and dazed feeling he had was growing stronger by the minute. He wanted to try more, to escape, but alas the heart was willing but the mind was weak. He had done his best, put in everything he had, but the final result had not changed.

The anger in Ming Hua's eyes also diminished slowly as she listened to her father's words, and the surprise in her heart also grew. In that instant, Zhou Weiqing's image in her mind changed, as he seemed so very different now. He no longer had that lascivious look on his face, fully expressionless. His eyes calm but the light in them seemed dimmer than usual. His face was pale, clearly showing how weak he was now. However, in such a state, it seemed as if all his masks were stripped off, and he seemed to have a strange charisma that somehow drew her to him.

"I did not lose, but I've still lost." Zhou Weiqing said passively, his hands pressed against the wall to support his body as he struggled to get up.

Ming Wu looked at him with appreciation, saying: "Indeed, you did not lose to me. I have always thought that my son was the top of the younger generation. Now, when I look at you, I know how true the saying goes. There are mountains beyond mountains,and heavens beyond heavens1. If one day you become more powerful than me, you can always kill me in revenge for what I did to you today, but for now, no matter what, I cannot let you go. Letting such a talent like you go is tantamount to giving up our Sect's possible grand future."

"Going back on your word, is this what the Heavenly Demon Sect is? So much for your insistence that you are not evil, but in the end your actions show your true colours." All of a sudden, a clear cold voice rang out in the air, seemingly insubstantial, and none of them could tell where it was coming from.

Ming Wu's face changed. "Who's that?!" He asked sharply. With his cultivation level, for him not to be able to detect someone getting close was extremely shocking. Furthermore, this person seemed to know who he was and his power levels, yet dared to speak up, that definitely showed a level of confidence.

After he asked the question, suddenly all three of their gazes were drawn to the side of the street, as if sucked in by a magnet.

In the quiet of the night, a shimmering white figure suddenly appeared there as if out of nowhere. The white seemed so pure and encompassing. A white dress, white hair, and fair and exquisite features. The only contrast was the two strips of dark blue hair lining the sides of the forehead, as well as a pair of glimmering deep purple eyes, injecting the entire image with colour.

This was a nigh perfect lady. Zhou Weiqing couldn't help but stare, dazed. Perhaps, Shangguan Bing'er was equal in term of looks, but this lady seemed to have a very unique aura and quality that no other girl he had seen could compare to.

Even Ming Wu, with his power and steady character, couldn't help but stare when he spotted this white clad young lady. As for Ming Hua, she almost had the feeling of being ashamed of her own appearance in comparison as she looked upon her countenance.

It was as if she didn't take any steps, but she appeared right in front of them. Around her right wrist, Zhou Weiqing saw six Icy Jade Physical Jewels.

Upper level Zun Stage Heavenly Jewel Master!

Who is she? Without knowing why, when Zhou Weiqing looked at her, he felt a strange sense of familiarity. Yet, he was sure that he had never seen this lady before. However, from her words, it seemed that she was here to help him. Zhou Weiqing kept quiet. In such a circumstance, that seemed the best course of action for him, to wait and see how things played out.

Besides the six Icy Jade Physical Jewels, the white clad young lady did not cover the Elemental Jewels on her left wrist. Swirling around them were actually six Alexandrite Cat's Eye Jewels, glittering rose red in the dark of the night… She had the same Jewels as Zhou Weiqing!

"Who are you?" Ming Wu asked once more solemnly.

The white clad lady said passively in her clear, cold voice: "Top Peak of the North."

Hearing the words, Ming Wu's face changed once more, and he couldn't help but exclaim: "Heavenly Snow Mountain?!"

Chapter 174: Tian Er (3)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

The young lady said passively: "It's good that you know. You both can leave now. He is protected by us." Her voice was enchantingly beautiful, but had a cold within that seemed to chill the bone.

After a short moment of surprise, Ming Wu recovered and said in his deep voice: "This lady, your Top Peak of the North and our Top Demon of the West have always not interfered with each other, and have even worked together at times. Please do not interfere in our business… it will be much appreciated."

The young lady gave a cold humph and said: "You do not have the qualification to say that to me… if Wu Xing Tian tells me that, then that's a different matter."

Ming Hua said coldly: "How arrogant, aren't you just talking big?" As the saying goes, beautiful women will easily be jealous of each other. After the short moment of feeling inferior, her gaze towards the young white clad lady was filled with some jealousy and envy.

However, when Ming Wu heard the young lady's words, his face changed once more and he quickly asked: "May I know this young lady's name?"

She replied passively: "My name is Tian Er…"

Upon hearing the name, Ming Wu's facial expression grew even uglier, his brow knitted as he lapsed into deep thought.

Tian Er continued passively: "Our Heavenly Snow Mountain has taken notice of this person for a long time now. Although your cultivation level is higher than mine, you are currently heavily injured. Even if both of you take action together, you may still not defeat me. Furthermore, if you dare to take action against me… then your Top Demon of the West will no longer exist."

As she said that, she lifted up her left hand and clapped it towards Zhou Weiqing.

As injured as he was, how could Zhou Weiqing avoid the blow. The only thing he saw was a flash of gold light and a warm feeling enveloped his entire body. The next moment, he lost consciousness.

"The Divine Attribute!" When Ming Wu saw the gold light flash from Tian Er's hands, he finally made his decision with a deep sigh. "Fine… enough is enough then. Since he is under the protection of the Heavenly Snow Mountain, there is nothing more for us to say."

"Lady Tian Er , please ensure that he does not reveal anything about today."

As Tian Er inclined her head slightly in agreement, Ming Wu looked at Zhou Weiqing once more unwillingly before grabbing onto his daughter and leaping into the air, quickly disappearing into the darkness.

Tian Er watched them leave calmly, before her eyes finally flashed in a brilliant gleam. With a flash of silver light, a little bird appeared on her shoulders – it was the Silver Emperor who had escaped from the Skill Storing Palace! If Ming Wu had shown any disrespect against the Heavenly Snow Mountain earlier, Tian Er wouldn't have let him leave so easily.

Turning to Zhou Weiqing, the calm and passive look in her eyes disappeared suddenly, and she lifted up a slim leg to give his buttocks a few kicks exasperatedly. Finally, she grabbed hold of his ears and said: "Hmph! You bad little rascal, if I didn't reach at the right time, you'd be finished. Your power is far from being sufficient, yet your talent for causing trouble certainly is unbelievable, even taking on the Heavenly Demon Sect. You big fool!" As she said that, she couldn't help but kick his buttocks two more times before stopping.

The Silver Emperor looked upon her actions curiously, but she just shook her head and said: "Little Silver, take my personal token for authentication and head to the Heavenly Snow Mountain. Your aura is too obvious here, and the Skill Storing Palace will not leave matters be so easily. This is after all their territory, and if they find us, it will cause some trouble. Once you reach the Heavenly Snow Mountain, my father will take care of you. However, remember that you must no longer kill any innocents. Understand?"

*Chirp* *Chirp* The Silver Emperor called out softly twice, before flying off into the air, disappearing into the skies.

After watching it leave, Tian Er finally grabbed hold of Zhou Weiqing and disappeared into the darkness as well.

…

At the other end, Ming Wu brought his daughter back to their mansion with an ashen, livid face. As soon as they reached the safety of their home, he immediately focused on treating his shoulder. Although he had the Life Attribute, having his bone shattered wasn't something that could be fixed easily, and taking care of it as soon as possible was important. With Ming Hua's help, the bones were pieced back together, and healing Skills set upon it. Even so, it would take at least half a month of healing and recuperation for it to recover.

"Father, why didn't you take action earlier? That so-called Tian Er was only six-Jeweled, even with your injury, you are still much more powerful than her!" After helping her father with his wound, Ming Hua couldn't help but ask.

Ming Wu shook his head with a bitter smile, saying: "If only it were that simple. If it was just about power, perhaps I could still defeat her despite my injuries, however it will not be so simple to kill or capture her. Top Peak of the North… the Heavenly Snow Mountain… do you think they are so easily dealt with? If we aren't careful, it will even bring destruction to our Sect."

Ming Wu said dubiously: "They are the Top Peak of the North, but we are also the Top Demon of the West, we are all considered one of the five Great Holy Lands in the continent, and can be considered equal, why should we be afraid of them?"

Ming Wu said: "Equal? Perhaps we are equal in terms of name or notoriety. However, for those who know the truth, we are not even close in terms of power. Our Top Demon of the East is at the bottom of the five Great Holy Lands, while the Heavenly Snow Mountain is right at the top of the five. You are an adult now, and it's time I told you some secrets. Do you know why the Wan Shou Empire is able to fight against so many of the other Empires of the continent by itself? It is because the Heavenly Snow Mountain is situated there, and are backing them. As such, none of the other Great Holy Lands dare join in the fight against them."

"Earlier, that young lady called Tian Er used the Divine Attribute, one of the rare three Saint Attributes. Furthermore, her Elemental Jewel was actually the Alexandrite Cat's Eye! Add to that, the 'Tian' in her name, all of that points to her being of royal blood in the Heavenly Snow Mountain, perhaps even the Heavenly Snow Emperor's daughter! It is rumoured that he only has the one daughter, and if we touch her… Let's not talk about injuring her… even if we just snatch Zhou Weiqing from her, it might even cause a grudge that cause our Sect to be destroyed."

Listening to her father's explanation, only then did Ming Hua understand the implications of everything. "Father, but I am still not willing to accept defeat so easily. We were so close! Furthermore, Zhou Weiqing is clearly with the Demonic Attribute, and is a first generation Demonic Jewel Master… He should belong to us Heavenly Demon Sect."

Ming Wu said passively: "Might is right. Previously, when I broke my word to Zhou Weiqing, wasn't it because I was more powerful than him?"

"It is the same in this case. The Heavenly Snow Mountain's power disparity with our Heavenly Demon Sect is just like the disparity between mine and Zhou Weiqing's power levels. We do not have any other choice."

"Is that it… we just give up like that?" Ming Hua thought about how she had been treated earlier in the tunnels, and gritted her teeth angrily.

Ming Wu sighed and said: "What else can we do? There is only one plan I have now. You should approach him now and try to get back on his good side… If possible… try to have his child… and that will at least be a second generation Demonic Jewel Master, which will still be of great aid to our Sect. That young man is just too talented and dangerous, we have already offended him. Since we can't get him to join us due to the Heavenly Snow Mountain, we will have to ensure that our relations do not worsen further. You are his teacher, and it is up to you to try to mend the relations. Even if he doesn't join us, we cannot afford to have him as our enemy."

Ming Hua said unwillingly: "Father, I won't do it! What's so good about him? You even want your own daughter to give herself…"

Ming Wu gave an angry humph and said: "You little girl… normally you're so intelligent, why are you so foolish when it comes to Zhou Weiqing? Haven't you seen enough of his talent and intelligence? Even if you find ten thousand 3-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Masters, all of them wouldn't be able to hurt me. Yet, he managed to do so. In fighting with him, that little rascal has at least the Wind, Lightning, Spatial and Demonic Attributes. Without question, his Elemental Jewel's true form should be an Alexandrite Cat's Eye Jewel. Furthermore, he might even have another attribute, an unknown one. With his cultivation level, he could actually slow me down for three seconds, what kind of unbelievable skill is that? Also, looking at all the skills he has used thus far, none of them is lower than an eight star rating! Add to that the fact that he has a God Tier Consolidated Equipment… what else is there to be said about his future growth. Previously, I was wondering how it was possible he could have such accomplishments at such a young age, but now I understand. The Heavenly Snow Mountain is his true background. If I'm not wrong, that daughter of the Heavenly Snow Emperor has perhaps fallen for him. In any case, I do not care what you think about him, but in school, you better do everything you can to mend ties with Zhou Weiqing. Understand?"

Ming Hua pouted unwillingly, but nodded her head in agreement. As for what her true feelings for Zhou Weiqing were, perhaps only she herself knew deep inside.

…

When Zhou Weiqing awoke from a deep sleep, he felt his whole body warm and comfortable. As he opened his eyes, he started, blinking as he sat up. He was astonished to find that he was back in his own room, lying on his bed.

The room was quiet, and it was already dawn as the first rays of sunlight shone in. Fat Cat was lazing in its usual spot, sleeping deeply, and everything seemed perfectly normal, as if nothing unusual had happened last night.

"What's going on… did I dream everything last night?" Zhou Weiqing muttered to himself.

Right at that moment, there was a soft knock on the door. "Little Fatty, it's time to get up. It's the first day of lessons today, we shouldn't be late. I'll go make some breakfast now." Shangguan Bing'er's gentle voice came from outside, warming his heart.

"I got it, I'm up now." Zhou Weiqing called out in agreement.

Gathering his energy to examine himself, he discovered that his Heavenly Energy was brimming. However, he was also certain that he had not dreamt the events of last night, and it was all real. He was still wearing the clothes he had gone out in last night, and they still had the faint scent of Ming Hua remaining on them when they had pressed against each other last night.

Who was that young white clad lady last night?! What was the Top Peak of the North and Top Demon of the West? From the words of that young lady Tian Er and Ming Wu, the Top Demon of the West should be the Heavenly Demon Sect. Apparently, the main force of the Heavenly Demon Sect should be in the west of the continent, which would be mainly the Bai Da Empire and Fei Li Empire.

Chapter 175: Ye Paopao and A Test (1)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

Towards the Heavenly Demon Sect, after the talk with Ming Wu and Ming Hua, Zhou Weiqing had some basic understanding of it. However, what was that so-called Top Peak of the North, or Heavenly Snow Mountain?

Without question, since he had been returned to his room safely, it must have been that white clad young lady who had saved him. How could she possibly defeat the nine Jeweled Ming Wu with her own six Jeweled cultivation level? Also… Alexandrite Cat's Eye Jewel… her Elemental Jewel was actually also the Alexandrite Cat's Eye Jewel!

Zhou Weiqing's mind wandered back to the beauty of the white clad young lady last night, and he subconsciously swallowed a gulp of saliva. He muttered to himself: "That white clad young lady, it seemed she was beautiful and perky. Alas, I hadn't been able to have a good look before she knocked me unconscious. What a shame… Hmm… I wonder why that lady from the Heavenly Snow Mountain would want to save me."

He did not notice that Fat Cat who had been sprawled on the chair listening to him suddenly twitched a little.

After thinking about it for a while, Zhou Weiqing shrugged, a smile on his face. He had the certainty regarding a few key points, and the rest wasn't any issue as he could slowly figure them out in the future.

It was simple, since that Tian Er from the Heavenly Snow Mountain had sent him back home and not taken him away, it revealed one thing. She had either beaten or scared off Ming Wu and Ming Hua, and had somehow guaranteed that they would not take revenge. Otherwise, what would be the point of saving him at night and leaving him alone to fall once more?

Having thought it through, Zhou Weiqing decided not to continue dwelling on it. As for why the young lady from the Heavenly Snow Mountain wanted to help him, he didn't try to think any further. Since she did not speak to him, he was happy to keep clear of them. After all, even though her beauty was exceptional, he was afraid that she might have a similar motive as the Heavenly Demon Sect, then he would be out of the frying pan and into the fire. Now that he could just act like he didn't know anything, Zhou Weiqing naturally did so.

Flipping onto his feet, he changed into clean clothing after washing up. By the time he entered the living room of their house, a steaming hot breakfast was ready for him.

It was a simple breakfast, a few eggs, a big bowl of porridge, some mantou, some pickled vegetables and several fruits.

Shangguan Bing'er had finished with her chores and saw him heading in. "Quick, eat up and we can head to the academy together."

Zhou Weiqing quickly flashed towards her, appearing beside her. In mid air, he grabbed hold of her and as she let out a startled cry, he gave her a quick kiss on her mouth.

"Little Fatty! Hmph!" Having succeeded in stealing a kiss, Zhou Weiqing quickly darted aside, not allowing her to take revenge. Seeing her huffy look, and the breakfast on the table, Zhou Weiqing felt a warmth and satisfaction in his heart.

"Little Fatty, if you continue being so bad, I won't make breakfast for you tomorrow!" Shangguan Bing'er said exasperatedly.

Zhou Weiqing grinned, grabbing a mantou and said: "My precious Bing'er, could you bear to do that? It's just a kiss, it is very normal for husband and wife!"

Shangguan Bing���er glared at him and ignored him, sitting down and starting to eat herself.

As they ate, Zhou Weiqing suddenly said: "Bing'er, let me tell you a story okay? As an apology."

Shangguan Bing'er looked at him dubiously as she continued eating, not knowing what he wad up to.

Zhou Weiqing toyed with the mantou in his hand, saying: "Heh heh. There was once this guessing game, and a man was in charge of hosting it, while two others would play the game. The host would take up something for one of the players to see, and the player would have to somehow use actions or words to describe the object, but would not be able to use the name of the object or things related to the name. The second player would have to guess what the object was, and if he guessed correctly, they would win."

Shangguan Bing'er was drawn to the story, listening hard as she ate.

Zhou Weiqing rolled the round mantou in his hands, smiling broadly as he said: "This time, the two players were a husband and wife couple. The host took out a mantou and showed it to the wife, and it was up to her to describe it. The wife used her hands to gesticulate in a round motion, and said to her husband: 'It's round, it's white, and you ate it last night.' Bing'er, can you guess whether or not the husband guessed correctly?"

Shangguan Bing'er said: "He should have guessed correctly. The wife already described it so clearly, and the only thing that could have matched the description should be a mantou."

Zhou Weiqing then said with a straight face: "Nope, the husband guessed wrongly. After hearing his wife's words, he guessed – Breasts."

Shangguan Bing'er started a little, then her mouthful of porridge sprayed out as she turned beet red. Looking at Zhou Weiqing sitting there playing lasciviously with the mantou in his hands while staring at her chest, she realised that this rascal was teasing her.

"A beautiful lady spitting out porridge, that's not good! What happens if you choke, slow down, slow down." Zhou Weiqing said as he smiled beatifically, starting on his on food.

After that, up until the time when the two of them reached the entrance of the Fei Li Military Academy, Shangguan Bing'er still pursed her lips and ignored Zhou Weiqing, although he was thick-skinned enough to just grab onto her hand and hold on.

"Wife, today classes are finally starting! You'll have to study hard!" Zhou Weiqing held onto her hand and walked through the entrance grandly. Shangguan Bing'er tried to struggle free but couldn't do so.

"I have to study hard? What about you?" Shangguan Bing'er said exasperatedly.

Zhou Weiqing grinned and said: "I'm different, I just need to be the man behind the scenes, controlling the talented generals." Although he seemed relaxed on the surface, he was in truth in a large amount of stress. After all, Ming Hua was his class teacher, and he could not guess what she would do to him.

As they spoke, they entered the academy grounds. However, as soon as they entered the main building, they were halted

It was a group of over a dozen students who stopped them. They were all noble students, and with their grand uniforms, they all had a superior air about them.

The one leading them was a youth of about twenty years old, and looking at him, Zhou Weiqing's eyes flashed with a hint of surprise.

The features of the youth was rather ordinary, definitely the sort that one might overlook in a crowd. However, all the noble students treated him very respectfully. His gaze was rather gentle and seemingly flawless, his face in the pink of health, looking to be a cheerful person of sunshine. If it had been any other situation, he would seem to be a pleasant person who wasn't any threat at all.

Ye Lou who had slunk away from the scene yesterday at the opening ceremony was standing beside this youth, his posture bowed and fawning.

"You are Junior Zhou Weiqing?" The youth leader looked towards Zhou Weiqing with a faint smile. His voice was as peaceful and calm as his gaze.

Zhou Weiqing inclined his head and said: "Yes, I am Zhou Weiqing. You are? What business do you have with me?" After last night, Zhou Weiqing decided to tone down his aggression. After all, this was the Capital City of the Fei Li Empire, and there were many powers at play that he would not be able to deal with. He had already made his mark, and it would be best to play safe for now. After all, he was not alone here, and Shangguan Bing'er was together with him.

"Junior Zhou, good morning. My name is Ye Paopao, and I'm a third year student. I'm here today specially to look for you, to apologise to you on behalf of my little brother and his actions yesterday." As he said that, he gave a slight bow towards Zhou Weiqing in apology.

Ye Paopao? The name was alien to Zhou Weiqing, but without question, he had to be the boss that Ye Lou spoke of yesterday. Zhou Weiqing surmised that this Ye Paopao had to be one of the leaders amongst the entire noble student population.

���Senior, there is no need to do so. What's in the past is in the past." Zhou Weiqing smiled and replied. Currently, there was no hint of the aggressive arrogance he displayed yesterday in the opening ceremony.

Ye Paopao smiled and said: "My name might be a little strange to you. 1 I am here today to not just apologise, but also to get to know Junior. After all, your actions yesterday at the opening ceremony was indeed surprising and impressive. I have so heard that you are a Mid Level Consolidating Equipment Master, and wanted to say that if in the future Junior has any Consolidating Equipment Scrolls for sale, I am willing to pay twenty percent above the market price for them. Price is not a problem."

This Ye Paopao was no simple person! Zhou Weiqing said calmly, unruffled. "That is great, I just happen to have a few Consolidating Equipment Scrolls for sale here. If Senior is interested, you can buy them."

Since there was money to be earned, why not? Furthermore, it was clear that he was here to make peace, and Zhou Weiqing needed to stay in the academy for the next few years, and there was no need to make things difficult for himself by falling out with Ye Paopao without any reason. The most important thing was that Ye Paopao was extremely different from Ye Lou, literally heaven and earth. Although he might be not necessarily be a good person, he was at least not a disagreeable or hateful person.

With that thought in mind, Zhou Weiqing reached into his Spatial Necklace and took out the Mid Level Consolidating Equipment Scrolls he had created yesterday.

Seeing Zhou Weiqing take out boxes of Consolidating Equipment Scrolls one after the other, Ye Paopao could not help but be taken aback. From Zhou Weiqing's actions yesterday, he had not expected him to be so agreeable, as it seemed that both sides were on opposing sides. Indeed as Zhou Weiqing expected, he had come here today to make peace, but had not thought that Zhou Weiqing would trust him so easily.

Ye Paopao received the five wooden boxes from Zhou Weiqing's hands, and opened one of them. With a single look, he immediately showed a surprised and pleased look on his face.

"A Mid Level Consolidating Equipment Scroll!"

Chapter 176: Ye Pao Pao and A Test (2)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

Ye Paopao nodded in agreement, smiling happily as he said: "In that case, I'll choose two. Speaking of which, Junior should indeed leave some for the academy. After all, our academy has indeed put in a lot of effort for Junior! I have never seen the academy take such large measures for a single student."

Zhou Weiqing said in surprise: "Large measures?"

Ye Paopao nodded and said: "It looks like Junior hasn't heard about the news yet. Yesterday, after the opening ceremony ended, the Academy looked for me and some of the other nobles who have commoner followers to give us a scolding, and also gave us a serious warning not to take any actions against to you. If not, we will be kicked out of school. To my knowledge, this has never happened in the history of the academy, and Junior can be said to have created history! That truly shows how much importance the academy places on you."

Since Zhou Weiqing was agreeable and willing to accept his peace offering, and furthermore willing to sell him Mid Level Consolidating Equipment Scrolls, Ye Paopao naturally had to give a plum in return for a peach1, and give him some news. He was very different from the short sighted Ye Lou, and was definitely thinking of the long term. After listening to Ye Lou's description of what had happened yesterday, as well as being called by the Academy to speak, he knew that this junior of his, Zhou Weiqing, was definitely not to be touched. Whoever did so would definitely get into trouble of their own. Since that was the case, he might as well try to mend relations, and try to get on his good side. That would allow him to get the most value out of the situation. In this thinking, it was the same as Ming Wu. Originally, Ye Paopao was still a little worried, but now it seemed that this Zhou Weiqing was quite an intelligent person as well. It was naturally easier for two intelligent people to have dealings with each other.

Hearing Ye Paopao's words, Zhou Weiqing was rather surprised. Although Dean Xiao had promised him to look into the matter, he had not expected that the Dean would actually go so far for him, to even warn the noble student leaders. That was indeed quite a favour that he would owe. Of course, in front of Ye Paopao, Zhou Weiqing did not reveal his feelings, and just smiled faintly and said: "That's indeed the kindness and generosity of the teachers, I am embarrassed by such undeserved attention."

Ye Paopao smiled as well, and said: "Well, we shouldn't stay here and block the main entrance, let's wrap this up. Out of the five sets of scrolls, I'll pick two. Currently, the market price of Mid Level Consolidating Equipment Scrolls is around 150-200 thousand gold coins. Since Junior is so kind as to let me have two sets, I shall reciprocate with a good price. Will 450 thousand gold coins do?"

450 thousand gold coins? That was indeed a good price! It's indeed true that the higher the level of Consolidating Equipment Scroll, the greater the profit margin! Even Zhou Weiqing was rather startled by the price, after all just these two sets of Mid Level Consolidating Equipment Scrolls had netted him a greater income than the ten lower level ones he had sold to the Skill Storing Palace. Furthermore, Mid Level Consolidating Equipment Scrolls were only a hundred scrolls per Set as compared to the thousand for the lower level. Although the materials required were more valuable and expensive, but overall it was even slightly lower cost per set.

"Senior, that price is a little high, 400 thousand gold coins will do." Zhou Weiqing laughed heartily and said, feeling satisfied in his heart. Having one less enemy, and earning money at the same time, how could he not be happy.

Ye Paopao said seriously: "No no, I will not let Junior lose out as well, I ultimately still want to buy more Scrolls from Junior. In the future, I hope that when Junior becomes a greater Consolidating Equipment Master, you will still remember me. Although my price is higher than the market price, but currently the supplies of these Consolidating Equipment Scrolls are very low, and many of the rich are unable to buy them even though they can easily afford it. Such a price is definitely worth it to me, Junior does not need to be too courteous."

As he said that, he motioned to the other noble students to help him hold the five boxes, and chose two from among them. After which, he returned the other three to Zhou Weiqing, with a little reluctance. At the same time, he also passed him a gold storage card.

"This storage card can be used anywhere in the Fei Li Empire, and there is 500 thousand gold coins stored within. The excess fifty thousand Junior does not need to return me, let's count it as a deposit for future transactions."

Accepting the remaining boxes and the gold storage card, Zhou Weiqing laughed and said: "In that case, I shall help myself. When my next batch of scrolls is complete, if there are any extras, I will definitely save some for Senior."

The two of them exchanged more pleasantries, before Ye Paopao led his followers and walked off. Zhou Weiqing stood there watching them leave, before finally turning to Shangguan Bing'er beside him and asking her in a low voice. "Bing'er, what do you think?"

Shangguan Bing'er was still a little angry from earlier, and gave a humph before saying: "Two false fellows. You two are just in competition for who is more false." She could naturally see that both Zhou Weiqing and Ye Paopao were dealing with each other courteously but without sincerity. After seeing Zhou Weiqing deal with Ye Paopao in such a manner easily, she was a little surprised. She originally thought that although her Little Fatty had a smart mouth, he was still relatively innocent. Now, she realised that the two years in the Heavenly Bow Unit, her Little Fatty had really grown up. Alas, as the saying goes, love is blind… She did not feel that Zhou Weiqing as scheming, but just intelligent and steady. Such a man would give her a sense of safety, at least they would not easily be taken advantage of.

Zhou Weiqing laughed and said: "You're right, this is originally a game, and trickery is just means to an end. However, I never expected that the Dean yesterday would treat me so well. It looks like Consolidating Equipment Masters are indeed a rare resource in the entire Continent! My dear wife Bing'er, your husband is now an attractive treasure you know!"

"Let's go already, we're going to be late for class soon. Remember to spend wisely, if possible, we should bring some back when we return home." Shangguan Bing'er said exasperatedly as she pulled on him. The two of them then headed towards their classroom.

By now, most of their classmates had already reached, and seeing Zhou Weiqing and Shangguan Bing'er enter, they all revealed smiles. On seeing Zhou Weiqing, the few female students' eyes lit up. As for Shangguan Bing'er, despite her great beauty, none of the other youths dared look at her.

Kou Rui approached them and greeted him: "Boss."

Zhou Weiqing said: "Call me by my name, not Boss, I don't want us to be like some mafia group."

Kou Rui shook his head, saying: "How can I, since I have already said that I will follow you, then there are some rules to follow. Boss, you've just reached the academy for more than a day, and you're already famous. Have you heard? Yesterday, after the opening ceremony, the academy called upon the noble student leaders and gave them a scolding, warning them to tone it down a little. More importantly, they warned them against taking action against you. In fact, currently, not just our academy, even the other two top academies have already heard of you, the Consolidating Equipment Master student in our academy."

Zhou Weiqing laughed and said: "You are truly an expert in information gathering! Have you completed collecting all the registrations from our classmates yesterday?"

Kou Rui took out a stack of papers and passed it to Zhou Weiqing and said: "All registered and collated. We have 29 students in our class. Beside you four Heavenly Jewel Masters, there are nineteen Physical Jewel Masters and six Elemental Jewel Masters. I have recorded all their current circumstances in detail on these papers, with each sheet for a student."

Zhou Weiqing was growing to like Kou Rui, who was indeed giving him a good impression over the past 2 days. Although his Jewel Master talent in terms of cultivation was a little lacking, in terms of completing all his assigned tasks, he had done so quickly and efficiently. With such a competent assistant, it would definitely ease the pressure on him. Just like what he told Shangguan Bing'er, he did not need to be talented in everything, just to be able to gather and lead the talented people. If he had to do everything himself, he would be exhausted to death.

Moving his hand to his Spatial Necklace, a wooden box with a set of Consolidating Equipment Scrolls appeared in his hands, and he passed it to Kou Rui, saying: "This is for you. You still do not have any Consolidated Equipment, and when you go back to the dorm, you can Consolidate this."

"Ah?" Kou Rui started, and the gazes of all the classmates were drawn to them. After all, talking was one thing, but having it actually happen in front of them was another matter. The other classmates were still relatively quiet and reserved, the main thing being that none of them had actually witnessed Zhou Weiqing giving them any Consolidating Equipment Scrolls. Now with Zhou Weiqing actually giving Kou Rui a set, even Yan Zhexi and Ma Qun stared at them with glowing hot eyes, let alone the other commoner students, some of whom hadn't even seen a Consolidating Equipment Scroll before.

Zhou Weiqing winked at Kou Rui, smiling as he said: "You are the first one to join me, and to help me. Naturally, you should be the first to get a reward. I thought hard about your situation… You are a Physical Jewel Master, with half agility and coordination, which is actually quite an underestimated combination. The only issue with the combination is the lack of offensive power. Amongst all the Physical Jewel Consolidated Equipments, being both suited to your attributes and yet having a powerful attack, it is undoubtedly a bow. As such, I have designed and created this bow for you. I call it the Tyrant Bow."

As he said that, he opened up the box, taking out a single scroll and passing it to Kou Rui to see.

At the same time. He lifted up his right hand, and in a thick icy mist, the Overlord Bow appeared in his hand.

"This tyrant bow is based on my Overlord Bow, of course without the Sockets. After all, the sockets can only be used by Heavenly Jewel Masters. I also customized it a little based on your situation, changing it from the original Strength Attribute. As such, its offensive capabilities and draw power is a little weaker, but since it originally adds on an explosive nature, this point alone allows it to have sufficient attacking strength. At the same time, I increased its attack speed, and if used properly, can definitely be a very good Physical Jewel Consolidated Equipment.

Hearing Zhou Weiqing's words, Kou Rui's gaze turned fanatical, his hands even shaking. He had never dreamt before that he would get a Consolidated Equipment so easily. Furthermore, it was even custom designed for him! Feelings of gratitude overwhelmed him, and as he took hold of the wooden box, he was so excited that he was rendered speechless. The entire class was dead silent.

Chapter 177: Ye Pao Pao and A Test (3)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

Naturally, Zhou Weiqing giving Kou Rui the Scroll and giving the detailed explanation was part of his plan, designed for the rest of the class to hear. With Kou Rui as an example, no one would have any suspicions that Zhou Weiqing was lying to them.

Ma Qun was now filled with regret. He originally had the opportunity to be the first! Although he was a Heavenly Jewel Master, he was of common birth, and what he hated most was for his freedom to be restricted. As such, he had always depended on himself throughout his life in cultivating. He had worked hard and finally saved enough to Store the Stoneskin Skill on his first Elemental Jewel, but that had wiped out all his savings. Consolidating Equipment Scrolls were just too expensive, and he just could not afford them. Yet, Zhou Weiqing was willing to provide them with them as long as he was boss in school, and without requiring them to be Sealed or restricting them! This was just an opportunity that only came by once in a blue moon, yet he had not seized that opportunity, and perhaps even offended him. He was even worried that his future possible equipment might be in peril.

Just as the crowd were staring at Zhou Weiqing excitedly and fanatically, the classroom door opened. Ming Hua entered carrying a large stack of papers.

As compared to the seductive look she had on yesterday, Ming Hua had a serious and even cold look on right now. When she spotted Zhou Weiqing, her body shuddered slightly, but she continued on towards the podium at the front of the class.

Zhou Weiqing's face turned serious and he turned to the other students and said: "Classmates, class has started, let's all go back to our seats. Do not worry, I will handle each and every one of your requests, it will not take a long time."

After saying that, he walked towards Ming Hua, seeming the perfect image of a class monitor, as he took the stack of papers from Ming Hua.

At that point, he was barely a foot from Ming Hua, and his mouth twitched as he said in a low voice that only the two of them could hear: "Little Wife Teacher, how are you!"

Ming Hua froze instantly, and she glared at Zhou Weiqing. At that moment, she felt anger welling out in her again, and the instructions from her father last night vanished from her mind, and her usual calm also disappeared as she glared at him viciously, saying through gritted teeth: "If you talk more rubbish, I'll pit my life to kill you."

Zhou Weiqing did not expect her to have such a huge reaction, and he grinned but did not say anything else, placing the stack of papers on the podium and turning back and was about to return to his seat.

"Stop. Monitor, give out the papers, one set per person. We are having a test."

"Test?" Zhou Weiqing stared dumbfounded at Ming Hua, muttering to himself: "Could it be a test on military matters?"

Ming Hua said coldly: "We are a military academy, what else can we be testing on?" Every year when class starts, we always test the freshmen first. We need to know your current standard of knowledge before we can design a proper teaching plan. You have entered our academy, and you don't even know this most basic thing?" Seeing Zhou Weiqing's frozen expression from her words, she felt a sudden rush of happiness. After all, it wasn't easy to get one over this fellow with words.

Zhou Weiqing's face twitched a little, and he thought to himself. Damn, I just managed to earn my status in class, if I get the lowest score in class, how can I keep my position as monitor! Looking at Ming Hua, he thought for the first time that perhaps it would be good to get on her good side as well. Smiling, he said: "Beautiful teacher, as the monitor, I think I should help you reduce your workload. How about, I help you invigilate this test?"

Ming Hua gave a humph and said: "Stop talking rubbish and give out the papers." As she said that, she took her seat behind the podium, ignoring Zhou Weiqing. The anger within her had vanished by now, and seeing the gloomy expression on his face, she knew she had caught his weak spot. Hmph, you called me little wife teacher earlier, and now you're trying to change to beautiful teacher?! Let's wait and see!

Zhou Weiqing could only give out the papers helplessly before returning to his own seat.

Ming Hua said sternly: "Alright, now everyone has the test in hand. Today is the first day of school, and in schedule this is a class meeting. Now, everyone just answer your papers by yourself; this is to test your overall military knowledge, and I hope all of you take this seriously. I will be taking down the scores of all of you, and the lowest two will be in charge of cleaning the classroom for a week. That includes the toilet beside the classroom! Alright, enough said, let us begin. If anyone dares cheat, you'll get a zero directly. And if there are many zeroes, I will extend the cleaning duties beyond a week."

Hearing there was a test, Zhou Weiqing was not the only one who was worried. Speaking of which, the one sitting right beside him at the back row, the large Ma Qun, also had a strange worried look on his face, his brow twitching.

"Boss Zhou." Ma Qun sidled closer to Zhou Weiqing and said softly.

Zhou Weiqing was currently rather gloomy, and said rather bad temperedly: "What?"

Ma Qun gulped, saying nervously: "Boss Zhou, in the future, I'll treat you as my boss okay. This time I am serious, and I will never go back on my word. Can you help me get through this test?"

Zhou Weiqing started. "Haven't you learnt any military knowledge?"

Ma Qun's head drooped down. "In the past, I did attend a military high school, but in classes I was either trying to score with the girls or just sleeping. How could I possibly know how to answer these tests! I only got into this academy because I am a Heavenly Jewel Master, and I didn't even take the military knowledge test."

Zhou Weiqing looked and him seriously and said: "I'm sorry, I really can't accept you as a follower as I can't help you. Damn, if you don't know how to do it, do you think I will? At least you've been to a military high school, I haven't even had that luxury."

Ma Qun stared at him, his eyes wide. "What?! Boss, you…"

Zhou Weiqing furrowed his brow and said: "I'm not all-knowing. It's up to yourself." As he said that, he noticed Shangguan Bing'er, who was seated at the front, look at him, worry for him displayed on her face.

Even if he couldn't make it for the test, he didn't want to lose face. Zhou Weiqing immediately gave her a reassuring confident smile, not showing his own worry.

"The test has started, if you all continue chit chatting, you��ll get a zero." Ming Hua stood up from behind the podium, walking over. Currently, she looked every bit the stern teacher, a fierce light in her eyes as she looked across the class, and every student felt as if she were looking at them.

A test… so be it. Zhou Weiqing grabbed a pen from the desk and started writing helplessly. Although he did not have any professional knowledge, he could still write as he pleased. Looking at the questions, he started writing quickly, answering the questions with the best answers he could think off. The way he wrote so quickly, anyone would think he was a skilled scholar.

Ming Hua had been walking down towards Zhou Weiqing, hoping to look at him fail. However, seeing the way he was writing away, confident and quick, without any hint of wanting to copy from others, she started a little.

After all, from her experiences with Zhou Weiqing, he had just created too many miracles. Who knows whether this fellow had some other hidden talents or abilities she did not know about. Perhaps he was even well versed in military knowledge… that was totally possible. After all, he had been praised by her brother, who was usually too proud to do so.

There were eight pages to the exam, and the test took the entire morning. The more Zhou Weiqing wrote, the more confident he felt. Although he had not officially studied any military knowledge, he had after all spent two years in the Heavenly Bow Unit, and had developed his own way of dealing with things. The way he wrote, without any hesitation, caused Ma Qun beside him to stare in amazement. When Zhou Weiqing had first started, Ma Qun thought that he had lied to him, but with his height advantage, he was able to sneak a peek on Zhou Weiqing's paper, and in doing so, he was even more confused.

This Boss Zhou was indeed impressive, he totally did not know military knowledge, yet he was still writing with such enthusiasm. What did I just see? He wrote that in military exercises, he would give a few beauties to the opposing commander the night before, causing him to be overly exhausted and not be able to concentrate. What sort of tactics was that? Ma Qun was speechless… he could only bow down to Zhou Weiqing.

In the end, Ming Hua still ended up standing next to Zhou Weiqing, putting up a look of a serious and fierce examiner, but her eyes were glued to Zhou Weiqing's paper.

When she first looked at Zhou Weiqing's answers, she almost burst out laughing. What was this rascal writing?! Even the easiest of the military knowledge questions, the answers he had written were donkey's lips that could not fit into a horse's mouth1. Yet he seemed to be writing with such enthusiasm and ease, with such a look as if he were a top scoring scholar.

However, the more she read, the smile in her eyes slowly vanished, replaced by a grave look.

Indeed, Zhou Weiqing did not know anything about these basic military knowledge, in fact it was almost to a point where he didn't know many of the definitions of the military phrases. However, when it came to analysis of battles and simulations of battles, it was just unbelievably stunning.

No matter her father or her brother, they were famed generals in the Fei Li Empire. Naturally, she had spent a lot of time immersed in the military world, and was highly influenced by what she had experienced. In fact, Ming Hua's talent and achievements in the military world were extremely high. However, it was just too difficult for a female in the military world, and her brother's achievements were already extremely high, added to the Fei Li Empire rules about families, she did not go further into a military career. Even so, she had a much better and discriminating eye as compared to many of the professional teachers in the academy. In fact, before she became a teacher, during her time in the academy, she was a top student, the valedictorian of her cohort, with her results even surpassing that of her brother. That was also why she had been asked to stay as a teacher by the Academy.

Ming Hua found that Zhou Weiqing was a novice in terms of military knowledge, but his grasp on strategy, tactics and especially the big picture vision was extremely strong. The few large questions on battle analysis, tactics and battle simulations, he had always gotten to the heart of the matter easily, quickly finding the root issue, and his solutions were always unique and unrestrained. In the military world, her brother was known to be a rather wild and crazy person; but in comparison with Zhou Weiqing's answers, he would be rather tame.

Chapter 178: Beautiful Lady Principal (1)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

The more she read Zhou Weiqing's answers from behind, the greater Ming Hua's sense of surprise. From his answers, she could easily tell that he had no knowledge about military matters, in fact this rascal likely hadn't gone through any official schooling in the matter. However, his surprising and audacious answers were fresh and definitely provided a different perspective, not fettered by any conventions. At first glance, it might seem like a load of rubbish, but if you thought it through, it was surprisingly good in its own unpolished way.

Is this rascal really a well rounded genius?! Ming Hua sighed inwardly. Although she still held feelings of hatred for this rascal who had taken advantage of her, she had to admit feelings of admiration for this youth, his talents and accomplishments. After all, he was still much younger than her!

Naturally, Zhou Weiqing knew that Ming Hua was standing beside him, but he couldn't care less. At most, he would just have to clean the toilets, and though it might be a little humiliating, as compared to the luck he had in escaping the perils of last night, he decided he didn't really care. After all, if not for the white clad young lady called Tian Er, perhaps he would already be enslaved to the Heavenly Demon Sect by now.

It was still barely halfway through the morning when our dear student Zhou Little Fatty completed his entire paper, and Ming Hua stood right by his side the entire time. Of course, the person who suffered most wasn't Zhou Weiqing, after all the position she stood in was with Zhou Weiqing to her left, and Ma Qun to her right. Under normal circumstances, Ma Qun would be more than happy to have such a beautiful teacher standing right beside him, but this was during an examination! His knowledge on military matters was no stronger than Zhou Weiqing's, and with Ming Hua by his side, he couldn't even copy from someone else no matter how much he wanted to. As such, his entire face was as bitter as a bitter gourd, and he had bitten the pen in his hand so many times that bite marks were left on it.

"Teacher, I've finished my paper. Can I hand it in in advance?" Zhou Weiqing struck the paper in his hands, taking a smooth deep breath as he relaxed back into his seat. He did not know the result whether or not he had to clean the toilet, but he had a great time answering the paper, writing as he felt, whatever he thought… Being able to do so, was indeed a soothing feeling.

"No." Hearing Zhou Weiqing's words, Ming Hua finally recovered herself. Looking at Zhou Weiqing's paper once more, she stifled laughter again. Not speaking of his answers, even the spidery scrawl of his ugly handwriting made her want to laugh. "Student Zhou Weiqing, didn't your previous teachers teach you to examine your answers after completing, to think over what you have written? No matter as a student or a future soldier, you should always be serious about what you do, and attitude is extremely important. This is what we are trying to cultivate in all our students here at the Fei Li Academy. As a military talent, if you are careless and negligent in the details, you could cause a disaster!"

Zhou Weiqing rolled his eyes, this Flower of Hades' Underworld sure did not let go of any opportunity to put him down! Couldn't she see that his answers were just his own ramblings? He did not even know the right answers, what was the point of examining?! However, she was his teacher after all, and he had just become the class monitor, he naturally could not rebut her in public. As such, he could only rein it in helplessly.

Of course, for him to reexamine his own answers, that would not be possible. Zhou Weiqing tossed his paper to the corner of his table, and sprawled down onto it, closing his eyes. Since you aren't going to allow me to submit my paper and leave early, I'll just take a nap here!

Ming Hua was on the verge of scolding him once more, but she finally remembered her father's words, glaring at him once more before walking around the class again.

Zhou Weiqing fell into a deep sleep. Although this rascal might be getting stronger at being sneaky and cunning, he had an unbelievably strange optimism and carefree-ness about him. Such a person naturally could get great sleep at any time, any place. Luckily, he did not have a snoring problem, though he did drool a little onto his sleeve as he slept.

As the lesson finally ended with a ear-splitting shrill of the school bell ringing, the students of the commoner class one felt as if their heads were spinning after the entire morning of being tested. That test was just so long, and besides Zhou Weiqing who just wrote whatever he wanted, there were few other students who actually managed to finish everything, and most of their faces were rather black.

"Little Fatty, class has ended." Shangguan Bing'er walked over to his table and called out to him. Zhou Weiqing was still sleeping soundly, and even that loud bell had not awoken him.

Ma Qun, who was sitting on the other side, said rather jealously: "Boss Zhou is indeed different from us all! He can even fall asleep so soundly during an examination."

Shangguan Bing'er glanced at Ma Qun, but ignored him. She did not really like this big fellow, a duplicitous guy who often spoke and acted different from his thinking, quite the same type of person as Zhou Weiqing.

Seeing no reaction from Zhou Weiqing, Shangguan Bing'er shouted out exasperatedly: "Little Fatty, time to eat!"

"Ah?! Eat? What's there to eat?" Zhou Weiqing's eyes snapped open, drool at the side of his mouth. His eyes were still blurry as he looked around for the food, causing some of the nearby students who had heard Shangguan Bing'er to giggle away.

Shangguan Bing'er took out her handkerchief to wipe his mouth. "Look at you sleeping away, come on let's go, it's time for lunch. Did you exhaust yourself making Consolidating Equipment Scrolls last night? We should go back to rest early after school today. You do not have to rush to create the Consolidating Equipment Scrolls, we have more time… Your health is more important." After wiping away his drool, Shangguan Bing'er helped him up, looking concernedly at him. Seeing his healthy look, she finally relaxed.

Zhou Weiqing grinned and said: "No problem, no problem. As long as some fox spirits do not come at night, how could I have any problems?" When he said this, he spoke loudly on purpose, and Ming Hua, who was almost done collecting the papers, froze imperceptibly.

Right at that moment, a solemn dignified voice rang out from outside the door. "Zhou Weiqing."

"Ah?" Zhou Weiqing called out as he looked towards the voice, only to see the classroom door open and Dean Xiao walk in, smiling as he waved towards Zhou Weiqing. "Come out a while please."

Naturally, Zhou Weiqing did not dare delay, turning to Shangguan BIng'er to say: "Bing'er, you go eat in the canteen first, I'll join you later."

Shangguan Bing'er nodded slightly, and Zhou Weiqing followed Dean Xiao out of the classroom.

Ma Qun could only look from the side with a face full of envy! Look at his girlfriend, that rascal falling asleep during a test and she's still so concerned about him, even wiping his saliva for him. Ahhh… Jealousy, Envy, Hate! Why can't I find a good girl like that? And such a beauty to boot…

As Zhou Weiqing followed Dean Xiao out, another visitor arrived at the door of the commoner class. This time, it wasn't another teacher, but a noble student. To be exact, it was a young beautiful girl. This red-headed girl directly entered the commoner classroom, heading towards Ming Hua and asking her softly. "Ming Hua Elder Sis, where is Ming Yu? I haven't seen him in a few days."

Ming Hua glanced at her rather impatiently, saying: "My brother went back to the frontlines. Why are you still looking for him? Didn't he state things clearly to you? He won't have any more connection with you from now on, do not pester him any further."

"You… you're Princess Difuya?" Shangguan Bing'er immediately recognized the red head. She was indeed Princess Difuya of their Heavenly Bow Empire, and also Zhou Weiqing's fiancee! With her pitiful look as she stood beside Ming Hua, she currently looked nothing like a princess.

Hearing someone call out her name, Difuya was started in surprise, turning her head to look. On seeing Shangguan Bing'er, she immediately called out in surprise. "Bing'er? What are you doing here?" Towards this top beauty and genius of their Empire, she naturally recognized her as well. Although she was rather arrogant in nature, she was also clear that her status in the Heavenly Bow Empire was not comparable to Shangguan Bing'er. As such, despite her domineering and rude character, she had a relatively good relation with Shangguan Bing'er. Well, at least, she used to.

Shangguan Bing'er pointed to her own uniform and said: "I'm here with Zhou Weiqing to study in the academy! He was just here earlier, didn't you see him?" As she said that, she felt her guard raise up. Although Zhou Weiqing had told her earlier that Difuya was in the same academy, knowing was one thing, and seeing was another. She was currently wary of Princess Difuya. After all, she was still considered Zhou Weiqing's official fiancee now!

Hearing Shangguan Bing'er mention Zhou Weiqing, Difuya's expression turned ugly. Glancing at Ming Hua, she also saw Ming Hua's face turn concerned, and she furrowed her brow and said: "Bing'er, how can you be close to Zhou Weiqing? That fellow is shameless and despicable! In the past, he was still the notorious trash of our Heavenly Bow Empire, and even though his Heavenly Jewels have Awakened now, he likely isn't strong. Do not be fooled by his honest outlook! He is the sort of person who acts proper on the surface, but is a scoundrel in the inside. I do not know why father likes him so much!" 1

Hearing Difuya's words, both Shangguan Bing'er and Ming Hua were rendered speechless. Ming Hua had a strange expression on her face, looking at Difuya as if she was an idiot. She thought to herself: Even if you are ignorant, you can't be THAT ignorant! Saying he is a scoundrel, that I agree a hundred percent. But to say he is a trash, then most of the people in the world would all be trash! This Princess… is literally a fool.

Shangguan Bing'er had something different in her mind. When Difuya first opened her mouth and called Zhou Weiqing shameless and despicable, she actually relaxed a little in relief. At least, that showed that Zhou Weiqing had not lied to her, and Difuya did not like him the slightest bit. However, as Difuya continued scolding him, Shangguan Bing'er's expression also turned uglier. Even if my Little Fatty isn't anything good, he is still MY Little Fatty. How can you scold my husband like that? No wonder Little Fatty doesn't want you at all, now I understand!

Chapter 179: Beautiful Lady Principal (2)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

"Princess Difuya, how can you say that about him. No matter what, he is still currently your fiance!" Shangguan Bing'er's voice was rather cold.

Alas, when Difuya heard the word fiance, she felt a rush of worry in her heart, totally missing the expression on Shangguan Bing'er's face. After all, this was right in front of Ming Hua! The Prince Charming in her mind's only younger sister! How could Difuya not be worried about Shangguan Bing'er mentioning the fact about their betrothal in front of Ming Hua.

"Bing'er Little Sis, you can't speak nonsense like that… who is his fiancee? That's just a political betrothal arranged by my father. This time I left home, I never planned on returning. I do not want that betrothal, even if I must marry a pig or a dog, I would not marry him!"

Shangguan Bing'er's face turned frosty. "Difuya, you're too much! What's wrong with Little Fatty, that you must treat him like that?"

"What's wrong with him…?" Difuya started a little. For her to actually state out what was wrong with Zhou Weiqing, she was also at a loss momentarily. At that point, she could only say stubbornly: "No matter what, I already have someone else I like. Do not mention that Zhou Weiqing, as useless as he is, even if he were a top genius in the world, I would still not like him…"

Ming Hua said impatiently: "Enough. You can stop trying to proclaim your love and loyalty in front of me. It's useless. I know my brother best, and once he has decided on something, he will never change his mind. In any case, I know why he doesn't want you… you are indeed a fool. In front of someone's girlfriend, you keep insulting him, I really do not know how to describe a fool like you. Also, there is one thing that you got correct. Indeed, I have never seen a greater talent and genius than that little brat Zhou Weiqing, not even my brother."

After saying that, Ming Hua took her papers and left. She had no mood to talk to a foolish girl like Difuya.

Hearing Ming Hua's words, Difuya went into shock. Seeing Shangguan Bing'er with a cold look on her face, she said inconceivably: "Bing'er, you… You actually became his girlfriend? Is that for real?"

Shangguan Bing'er said solemnly: "Why can't it be for real? I have been together with Little Fatty for two years. Difuya, you may not like him, but it doesn't mean everyone does not like him."

"The Little Fatty, who is useless in your eyes, is an exceptional man in my eyes. I will not speak with you further on this, I am heading to the canteen to wait for him." As she said that, she headed out.

"I got it." Difuya said as if in sudden comprehension. "It must be because of Admiral Zhou, right?"

Shangguan Bing'er stopped in her tracks, turning back towards Difuya and saying in an icy cold voice: "Your Highness, please do not insult me, and do not insult yourself. From today onwards, we are no longer friends. Also, I hope that you remember every word you said today. I will never let you have Little Fatty…" Though at first she felt ashamed and guilty towards this official fiancee of Zhou Weiqing's, now Shangguan Bing'er did not feel that anymore. In fact, she even felt that it wasn't even important to try to dissolve the engagement anymore, as she knew Zhou Weiqing would never like a person like that.

Of course, Zhou Weiqing did not know what had happened in the classroom, as he was currently walking together with Dean Xiao. As they walked, he said sincerely: "Dean Xiao, thank you so much for everything you did yesterday."

Xiao Shi smiled faintly, saying: "You little brat, you are rather well informed! Well, you do not need to thank me, that was all your own capabilities. If you weren't outstanding, I wouldn't even have noticed you, let alone protect you…"

Zhou Weiqing was rather surprised at Xiao Shi's directness. He found that he was growing to like this Dean of Students even more.

Zhou Weiqing continued asking: "Dean Xiao, why did you look for me?"

Xiao Shi laughed and said: "It's not me who is looking for you. It is our Principal who wants to meet such an outstanding and talented young genius like you."

Hearing the words genius, Zhou Weiqing thought about the test they had just taken and how he had not known anything. In a rare sight, he flushed red in embarrassment, saying: "I am far from being any genius, I will have to depend on Dean Xiao in the future to take care of me."

Xiao Shi said: "If you aren't considered a genius, then there aren't any genius in the world. According to your registration records, you still haven't reached the age of seventeen, and you are already a Mid Level Consolidating Equipment Master. Not only are you the first Consolidating Equipment Master in our school, you are also the youngest Mid Level Consolidating Equipment Master I have ever heard of. Even those who inherit the heritage of famed Consolidating Equipment Masters, they are still mostly Low Level Consolidating Equipment Masters at such an age. We have indeed high hopes for your talent."

As they spoke, Xiao Shi led the way up the stairs. The principal's office was at the fifth level of the main building, which was also the highest level.

Hmm… Principal? Zhou Weiqing's mind was instantly filled with images of that distinguished and elegant beauty he had seen the other day. She had definitely left an impression on him.

Very soon, they had reached the fifth level, which was obviously a lot quieter than the rest of the academy. This was the level where all the high ranking members of the academy had their offices.

Leading Zhou Weiqing to the deepest parts of the level, Xiao Shi finally stopped at a door with a sign portraying the Principal's Office. With a respectful expression on his face, Xiao Shi knocked softly twice on the door.

A calm, elegant voice came from within. "Please enter."

Only then did Xiao Shi push open the door and enter together with Zhou Weiqing.

The office was rather large, almost three hundred square metres, and was entirely adorned in a pale yellow look, giving a peaceful yet refined feel. All the furnishing in the room was meticulously designed and well thought out, and right behind a large semi-circular table sat the beautiful lady Principal, Cai Cai.

Just like yesterday, she was dressed in her unique black teacher robes, her long hair bundled up to her head. She had a small, pleasant smile on her face, and her expression was peaceful and calm, without an imposing aura like one might expect from someone of her position.

"Principal, I've brought Zhou Weiqing before you." Xiao Shi said to her with a slight bow.

Cai Cai smiled and inclined her head in greeting: "Thank you Dean Xiao, I have troubled you."

Xiao Shi smiled in return and said: "It was no trouble at all, Principal. I shall take my leave now, you can have a good talk with him." He bowed once again before leaving the room. Before he did so, he gave Zhou Weiqing an encouraging look.

As Xiao Shi left, he closed the door behind him, and there was only the two of them left in the office. When Zhou Weiqing had seen Cai Cai from afar previously, he had been awestruck by her beauty. Now, to see her at such a close range, he almost felt a little uncomfortable.

This Principal Cai Cai gave him somewhat of a feeling like a goddess who shouldn't be sullied, giving forth a natural, untouchable aura. That invisible stress seemed to have a presence in the room itself, and her noble grace seemed inbred into her very bones, making others feel a strange sense of inferiority despite the lack of arrogance.

According to Kou Rui's information, this beautiful lady principal was already thirty-five years old. However, just from outward appearance, she looked barely twenty years old. Yet, her aura and presence seemed to be that of a person in power of fifty to sixty years of age. Such a unique combination of presence was more than sufficient to draw the eye of anyone.

"Student Zhou Weiqing right, please have a seat." Cai cai pointed to the high backed chair in front of her desk.

Zhou Weiqing did not hesitate, pulling back the chair and sitting down in it, not really caring about any noble etiquettes. After all, he was a commoner student in the academy… Furthermore, to compare noble etiquettes with this lady, that would be something useless to do.

In front of a beautiful lady, in order to draw attention to yourself, you must either be stronger than her, otherwise the other route is to just be something extremely unique and different. This was Mu En's teachings to Zhou Weiqing.

"Greetings, Principal Cai Cai." Zhou Weiqing said with a smile.

Cai Cai started a little, even the teachers of the academy did not usually call her by her full name. Furthermore… This youth, Zhou Weiqing, was a lot more mature and stable than she had expected.

Naturally, what Zhou Weiqing had done at the opening ceremony yesterday was not hidden from her. In fact, every detail of the entire incident was reported to her. In this academy, she held the ultimate authority.

"Zhou Weiqing, do you know why I asked Dean Xiao to call you here?" She asked passively.

Zhou Weiqing shook his head and said: "No, I do not."

Cai Cai said: "I saw your entrance exam, and I heard that General Ming Yu right?"

Zhou Weiqing nodded and said: "Yes, the examiner teacher then did not like my answer, and General Ming Yu passed by and saw it, and he thought it was still okay, and gave me a pretty good score."

"Okay? In my view, your answer deserved a zero." Cai Cai's voice suddenly turned cold, so much so that Zhou Weiqing felt as if the entire temperature in the room dropped a few degrees.

Zhou Weiqing started a little. It seems this Principal wasn't too friendly towards him.

Cai Cai said solemnly: "In your answer, I saw an unbelievable amount of bloodshed and death, and the suffering of countless citizens. Perhaps, your tactics might be successful, bringing victory. But at what cost? How many will die with you commanding? Every life only has one chance to live here, and no one should have the right to strip them of this right. When someone dies, it also brings suffering to their families. Perhaps you might think it's a petty kindness, but what I want to tell you is that a commander who does not care about the lives of citizens will never be a true leader, and his army will never be a champion army."

Chapter 180: Beautiful Lady Principal (3)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

"In a battle, what's the most important thing? Opportunity, favourable terrain, and the people. For the first two, it's still possible to determine using your experience and knowledge, but the last is not possible. The person who holds the hearts of people will rule the lands. Let me tell you one thing for certain – although Ming Yu is a famous general, he will never be granted the highest accolades and awards, nor will he ever become the Commander-in-chief. That is because for him now, no matter where he goes, he brings fear, not just the enemies but even our own countrymen. Those that remember his victories are few, but many call him an executioner and slaughterer. Alas, despite all his abilities and military talent, he will never be a loved general."

Hearing Cai Cai's strict and serious words, only then did Zhou Weiqing finally realise the situation. It seemed he had been taking the hit for someone else! Ignoring the rumour about their possible relation, it was likely that Cai Cai and Ming Yu had many differences regarding their outlook on military command. Although deep in Zhou Weiqing's heart, he was more agreeable to Ming Yu's way of thinking, he could also hear some reason in Cai Cai���s words. Just like the debate whether might is right versus winning people over with benevolence is better, it was never a debate that could be resolved easily with a simple answer.

"Principal, wait a minute, how about letting me say something?" Zhou Weiqing said helplessly.

Cai Cai resumed her previous smiling poise, though there was a hint of stern coldness in her eyes.

Zhou Weiqing smiled bitterly and said: "Principal, let me be honest. In truth, that day while going through the exam. i was totally writing rubbish. I have never ever attended any official military training in my life, let alone a military academy."

"Who knew that I would coincidentally have the same answer as General Ming Yu. I am here just for that, to learn! I am not set in any ways, nor am I close to commanding any battles any time soon. To say that I will end up like General Ming Yu is way too early. As such, you do not have to worry so much, after all I still have four years of studying and learning to go through. Isn't that the purpose of the academy, to let me know all the possible ways and methods to approach various problems, even to resolve without bloodshed? I can only say that you are thinking too much. No one can be a copy of another person. I will not be a second Ming Yu. To put things bluntly, I wouldn't even want to be him, he is not worth it for me. 1"

As he said that, Zhou Weiqing's rogue-ish nature was revealed once more. He was rather exasperated and speechless, it was noon and lunch time, and yet he was just called in to be scolded for nothing? What was that all about?

Hearing Zhou Weiqing's words, Cai Cai suddenly burst out laughing, yet without destroying any of her noble grace, instead adding a vivacious charm to her.

"You are a man after all, how could you be attracted to another man?" Cai Cai said passively. Her voice remained calm and peaceful despite the wide smile on her face, and Zhou Weiqing couldn't help to stare at her. If not for the fact that he had indeed seen many beauties, he might have been enamoured by the sight.

"You do not have to explain anything to me. My words earlier were just to tell you that you shouldn't learn too much from Ming Yu's example. Next, let's talk about you. During the opening ceremony yesterday, I shall not pursue the matter about you hitting another student any further. You are a 3-Jeweled Heavenly Jewel Master, and not even seventeen years of age yet. You are also a Mid Level Consolidating Equipment Master. What I really want to know is why did you choose our Fei Li Imperial Family Military Academy instead of the Heavenly Jewel Master Academy?"

Cai Cai's gaze seemed to turn sharp as she focused upon Zhou Weiqing's face, as if she could see right through him.

Zhou Weiqing said rather helplessly: "I did not choose it! That was all arranged by my family back home, and I didn't really have a choice. Furthermore, it's always good to learn something else, I will probably have to join the army eventually, so it's good for me to learn something about military matters now. Furthermore, doesn't our academy teach us regarding Heavenly Jewel Masters as well?"

Cai Cai shook her head gently, saying: "You are here because your father is the commander in chief of the Heavenly Bow Empire. As his son, and a Heavenly Jewel Master yourself, you will probably have to succeed him in the future. In truth, this academy may not really be suitable for you. Although your father is one of the few people in the world today that I admire, I still have to tell you this."

Zhou Weiqing was stunned in his heart. "You know my father?!"

Cai Cai said passively: "We've met once in passing. It was just an easy matter for me to know who you really were, after all the Heavenly Bow Empire is allies with us Fei Li Empire. However, these few years, due to the pressure from the Wan Shou Empire, we have not been able to aid your Heavenly Bow Empire as much as we would like to. Regarding this, I have to give my apology. Under such a circumstance, if not for your father Admiral Zhou holding his ground, I'm afraid the Heavenly Bow Empire would have fallen long ago."

Zhou Weiqing furrowed his brow and said: "In that case, it is even more imperative that I learn more about military matters, to go back home and help my father, and ease his load."

Cai Cai said: "There is a phrase called 'Do not bite off more than you can chew'. It's always good to learn new things, but it is usually related for the sake of survival. In your case, that isn't true. After all, you have an amazing talent in other matters. A Consolidating Equipment Master of less than seventeen years of age, how often is that seen? According to Dean Xiao, you definitely have much talent in that area, and aren't just someone who had just barely made it to the rank. Add on to that your Spatial Heavenly Jewel Master status… If you spend too much time and effort on military matters, you might disrupt your progress in being a Heavenly Jewel Master or Consolidating Equipment Master. Do you understand what I mean?"

As she spoke up to this point, Cai Cai paused a moment before continuing gracefully: "If not for the fact that you are Admiral Zhou's only son, I would be trying my best to persuade such a talent like you to join our Fei Li Empire. Alas, that is obviously not going to be possible. To be honest, to your Heavenly Bow Empire, an outstanding Consolidating Equipment Master is much more meaningful and important than another outstanding general or commander. I think you should understand what I mean. Furthermore, your father is still in his prime, and should not require you to succeed him in the next twenty years or so. If you are willing, I can write you a letter of recommendation to the Heavenly Jewel Master Academy and have you transfer over. Not only are they more well versed in training Heavenly Jewel Masters, they also have a specialised course for Consolidating Equipment Masters, and the teacher in charge is even a Consolidating Equipment Grandmaster."

Zhou Weiqing's eyes glittered. He was rather unsure of what Cai Cai's actions meant. With his status as a Consolidating Equipment Master, shouldn't she be more than happy to leave him in the academy? Why did she seem like she was trying to chase him away?

Cai Cai looked at him steadily and smiled. "I know what you are thinking. I can tell you directly. Indeed, you are correct, I do not want you to continue staying in the academy. The reason is simple, I do want to wait for your graduation to see you pull all the commoner students to the Heavenly Bow Empire."

As soon as Cai Cai said those words, Zhou Weiqing felt a chill run down his spine and his heart sink. He had never expected that all his actions would be so easily read. Without question, before calling him here today, this Principal had looked into all his actions in detail, from the second he had entered the academy.

Another scarily intelligent person. Perhaps, in terms of power, Cai Cai might not be a match for Ming Wu. However, the impression she gave Zhou Weiqing was even more terrifying. The sort of pressure that she gave him with just a few simple words, the feeling of her having everything in her grasp, that was undeniable, without giving Zhou Weiqing any room to manoeuvre.

Zhou Weiqing drew in a deep breath, suppressing his fear and rage within his heart. His gaze also turned icy, far different from his usual easygoing manner.

He had barely stepped into this academy for two days, and had barely shown himself to be above average, yet he had already met with so many problems. Without even speaking about the problems from other students, just the problems from the Heavenly Demon Sect and from the academy itself now, it was quickly eroding his patience. Do not forget that after all the Zhou Weiqing now was no longer the youth that hadn't Awakened his Heavenly Jewels a few years back. All these years, he had steadily been absorbing and bonding with the black pearl he had swallowed. At the same time that he had gotten all the various benefits, his character was also subtly influenced. He was originally the sort of person to lash out harder the more pressure he was under, and under such a threat, he no longer wanted to hold back.

"Principal Cai Cai, let me show you something." Zhou Weiqing said calmly. As he said that, he took out a sheet of paper from his Spatial Necklace, passing it to Cai Cai.

Cai Cai started a little. She had originally thought she had everything under control. In her view, Zhou Weiqing would either have to leave, or to back down and compromise with her. She had not expected him to have this reaction instead.

Taking the paper from Zhou Weiqing, Cai Cai held it before her. When she looked upon it, her calm and peaceful figure actually shuddered violently, her eyes revealing her shock.

Zhou Weiqing stood up, pressing his hands to the table, looking down onto Cai Cai. "Principal Cai Cai, this design… With your intelligence, I'm sure you can tell what it is."

Cai Cai struggled hard to control the shock in her heart, saying coldly: "A God Tier Consolidating Equipment Scroll Design."

Indeed, what Zhou Weiqing had passed to her was a God Tier Consolidating Equipment Scroll design. Of course, he wasn't foolish, and the one he passed to her was the twin hammers that he had already Consolidated. Even if Cai Cai tried to forcefully steal it, he wasn't afraid. Furthermore, he was rather confident that she would not do so, or would not dare to do so.

Zhou Weiqing said proudly: "Indeed, you are right, it is a God Tier Consolidating Equipment Scroll design. Now… do you still think I need a Consolidating Equipment Grandmaster to teach me?"

Chapter 181: as if in greater misery! (1)

Translator: Zen Translations Editor: Zen Translations

Cai Cai said coldly: "Indeed, a God Tier Consolidating Equipment Scroll design can be said to be priceless. However, it is still just a design. As a Consolidating Equipment Master yourself, you should be clear that having a design is one thing, and actually creating it is another matter. Do you mean to tell me you have the ability to create this Scroll? Do not joke with me."

Zhou Weiqing shook his head and said: "Of course not, I definitely do not have the ability currently. However, Principal, I do want to tell you two things."

"First of all… in the near future, I have a hundred percent confidence of being able to create this God Tier Consolidating Equipment Scrolls. Do not ask me why, as that is my own personal secret, and I'm sure you aren't willing to bet. Secondly, although I am currently unable to create the scrolls, that doesn't mean my teacher isn't able to. Oh right, I forgot, there is a third thing. I forgot to mention that the design in your hands is just the first of a set. As for this set… in the Consolidating Equipment Master world, there is something that everyone has heard of but no one has witnessed personally – Legendary Consolidating Equipment Set."

"What did you say?" Cai Cai finally lost her cool, standing up suddenly and staring at Zhou Weiqing. Her eyes seemed to glitter as she stared at him, an intense pressure emitting forth from her body.

A thick aura of Heavenly Energy seemed to surround him. Although it did not seem as irresistible as Ming Wu's, Zhou Weiqing could still clearly feel that her cultivation level was way above his own.

Seeing her stand up, Zhou Weiqing sat back down coolly instead, his fingers drumming lightly on the arms of the chair as he smiled faintly and said: "I am just telling advising you, Principal, that you shouldn't let the Fei Li Empire treat a possible God Tier Consolidating Equipment Master as an enemy… especially one who has a Legendary Consolidating Equipment Set. Such a scenario, I'm afraid you might not be able to take responsibility. Furthermore, in this world, a God Tier Consolidating Equipment Master will never be alone. I think you know what I mean."

Looking at Zhou Weiqing, Cai Cai's expression was rather ugly as her eyes glittered, staring at him. She had never expected that this little fellow from the Heavenly Bow Empire would actually be able to take out a God Tier Consolidating Equipment Scroll Design, and even proclaiming that it was part of a Legendary Set! Naturally, she knew what that entailed, and if what Zhou Weiqing said was true, when he grew to his full power, he could possibly bring irreparable damage to the Fei Li Empire just through his power alone. Furthermore, just like he said, a God Tier Consolidating Equipment Master was not alone… and even worse, for his teacher to be able to bring up someone like Zhou Weiqing, and to even give him a Legendary Consolidating Equipment Set Design, it was definitely someone with much status and power, perhaps even a group or family! In such a time when Consolidating Equipment Scrolls were in short supply, it would be literally suicide for the Empire to offend such high level Consolidating Equipment Masters. To do so for just Zhou Weiqing, Cai Cai was definitely not about to do that.

However, in the next few moments, Cai Cai calmed down, taking her seat once more and giving a cold laugh. Throwing the design back to Zhou Weiqing, she said coldly: "Are you trying to throw me off with just a piece of paper? If this is just something that you or your teacher picked up somewhere by luck, wouldn't that make me a laughing stock?"

Zhou Weiqing thought to himself: What a problematic person to deal with. Luckily, I'm well prepared.

Nodding, Zhou Weiqing gave a confident look as he said: "You're right, Principal. As they saying goes, seeing is believing. I believe you should have noticed what the God Tier Consolidated Equipment was in the design right?"

Cai Cai inclined her head and said: "A pair of hammers…"

Just as she finished speaking, Zhou Weiqing's right hand waved outward, though not in her direction. A thick dark gold light sprang forth, instantaneously enveloping Zhou Weiqing's entire body.

"Consolidating Equipment God Protective Aura?!" This was the second time Cai Cai had lost her composure and exclaimed out loud since meeting Zhou Weiqing. The next moment, she saw a pair of exaggeratedly huge hammers appear in Zhou Weiqing's hands. As soon as they appeared, there was no need for Zhou Weiqing to show further, and Cai Cai knew it was definitely a God Tier Consolidated Equipment. After all, that aura wasn't something that any ordinary equipment could display.

Zhou Weiqing struck the hammer on the table lightly, causing a soft *bang*. When he lifted it back up, the solid table had a mark left on it. The mark seemed to hold strange elaborate meanings, though it only came from the inscriptions on the hammer shaft.

"Principal Cai Cai can verify that with a Zong Stage Consolidating Equipment Master. He will tell you what it means. Ah, I can tell you now as well, what it means is it is the first of a Legendary Consolidated Equipment Set… and there are a total of ten in the entire set."

As he said that, Zhou Weiqing kept the hammers with the wave of his hands, at the same time retrieving and keeping the design sheet which was on the table. Standing for a second time, he glanced at Cai Cai, whose brow was furrowed in deep thought, and turned to leave. As he did so, he thought to himself: I'm hungry, I'm going to eat now! Who asked you all to try to pressure me, threaten me! Hmph, I'll scare you all away. Zhou Weiqing did not hesitate to show his hammers in order to win the battle of spirits with Cai Cai, letting her know that even though he came from Heavenly Bow Empire, he wasn't someone she could easily bully. He wanted to show that he had a background that wasn't easily trifled with, even for the Fei Li Empire. Only then could he reverse his untenable position into one where he had a driving seat of sorts. Furthermore, he was not totally lying. Indeed, this time if he was really chased out, when he grew to his full power, he would definitely take revenge on the Fei Li Empire. This was undoubtedly the truth, as he was not some goody goody two shoes.

"Wait a while." Just as Zhou Weiqing was about to reach the door, Cai Cai suddenly called out to him.

Zhou Weiqing turned back around, his face expressionless and calm as he said: "Ma'am Principal, is there anything else?"

Cai Cai smiled and said: "Student Zhou Weiqing, in the future when you create Consolidating Equipment Scrolls, can the academy reserve some… as well as our Fei Li Empire?"

Zhou Weiqing shrugged and said: "Why not?" After saying that, he pulled on the door and left swiftly.

In truth, he had a strong urge in his heart to just reject her outright, and not give her the face to back down simply. However, he knew that he had already scored the minor victory, and her position was after all just much stronger than his. This was the Fei Li Empire, and he was still going to study in the academy for four more years. Furthermore, it was just him and Shangguan Bing'er alone here, and it would definitely be unwise to alienate the entire upper echelons of the academy, and cause himself more trouble. As such, he finally let her have the face, after all overall he had gotten the upper hand in this round. If he truly wanted to totally beat or suppress this woman, it would only be possible one day when his power was totally beyond hers.

After Zhou Weiqing had left her office, Cai Cai still stood there silently. After a while, she finally shook her head and sighed, muttering to herself: "It looks like the Heavenly Bow Empire will have the chance to rise up. I'll have to tell the military headquarters to perhaps give some aid to them. As for this little brat, I'll have to keep my eye on him. God Tier Consolidating Equipment Master… Legendary Consolidating Equipment Set… Zhou Weiqing, you have indeed made me look at you in a different light."

By the time Zhou Weiqing reached the canteen, most of the people had already finished eating. Shangguan Bing'er sat alone at a table, silently waiting for him. Kou Rui stood at the side not far from her, and Yan Zhexi was also actually standing together with him. With Shangguan Bing'er's beauty, there was naturally no shortage of people trying to approach her, but the two of them stopped all of them. Normally, this would have been impossible, but the nobles had just been warned by the academy authorities yesterday.

"Bing'er, you haven't eaten yet?" Zhou Weiqing saw two plates of food on the table, and asked curiously.

Shangguan Bing'er smiled faintly and said: "I wanted to wait and eat together with you."

After arguing with Cai Cai, Zhou Weiqing had felt a little tired in his heart. However, looking at Shangguan Bing'er's peaceful gaze and hearing her words, he felt a warmth calm his heart. No matter what or when, she was there to support him, any amount of suffering and fatigue on his part was worth it!

"Let's eat then." Zhou Weiqing gazed deeply at her, and did not attempt to seize the opportunity to tease her. At this moment, his heart was filled with love and warmth, feeling the need to protect this girl in front of him forever.

Kou Rui and Yan Zhexi both left quietly when they saw Zhou Weiqing reach the table, and as the other students slowly drifted out of the canteen, it seemed to Shangguan Bing'er and Zhou Weiqing that they were alone in the world.

After their lunch, the two of them headed to the main square on the academy grounds, finding a bench and basking in the sun. "Bing'er, are you tired after this morning's test?"

Shangguan Bing'er said: "No, I'm not tired. How can us Heavenly Jewel Masters be tired so easily? How was your test?"

Zhou Weiqing said rather helplessly: "Looks like I have a high chance of cleaning the toilet."

Shangguan Bing'er furrowed her brow and was just about to say something, but Zhou Weiqing held a finger to her red lips. "Do not worry for me, I will handle it. Now your mission is… an afternoon nap."

Domineeringly pulling her into his arms, he let her lean into her arms, smiling in satisfaction.

Shangguan Bing'er did not tell him about what happened with Difuya earlier, as she knew very clearly his temper. If Zhou Weiqing found out what happened, he would not let things go easily. Now, leaning on him, she felt a sense of security, and as they relaxed under the warm sun rays, her long eyelashes slowly closed, and soon enough, her breath settled and evened.

It was only when it was time for the afternoon class when Zhou Weiqing woke her up. Although he did not sleep, hugging her through the noon period, he felt rested and his mind refreshed, with a sense of clarity.