Chapter 10

Finally the day of the entrance exam has arrived!

A few days ago, steward Nan RuZui passed a letter with Yang Hui's official seal to Xiao Bai. The letter stated that in 3 days the Yang Gui will hold their entrance exam and all aspiring students are expected to be in the academy before 10:00 in the morning.

The exam will have two parts, the morning exam will be about literary and politics while the afternoon exam will include martial arts. The results in these two exams will determine the student's capacity and ranking.

Xiao bai and ming xue woke up early, not daring to be late and humiliate themselves. Xiao Bai was currently in his room fixing his look. He picked an overall white outfit from his wardrobe and a white jade hairpin to tie his hair.

Confirming one last time that he was presentable he walked out and headed towards the living room where their breakfast was served.

"Good morning, Young master." Ming xue greeted him. It turns out that ming xue is already waiting for him at the table to start breakfast. Xiao Bai fastened his steps and sat down opposite towards ming xue.

Ming xue was quite a looker today. With his hair tide up properly, his facial features opened up more and anyone could see his enchanting eyes, slanted eyebrows, pointed nose and thin lips.

He wore a pure black robe, a contrast to Xiao bai's white garments. The black outfit made ming xue's aura more manly and cold.

Xiao bai couldn't help but stole some glances towards ming xue while having their breakfast. Ming xue was also very conscious about it and asked, "Young Master, is something wrong?"

Xiao bai said, " No. Nothing. I just thought that you really should keep being like this. I'm sure countless women would flock around you for whole year." Then followed it with a laugh.

Unexpectedly ming xue shrugged and bowed his head, appearing to focus on his food. Xiao Bai was of course just teasing him, seeing that the other blushed he couldn't help himself but tease him again.

Xiao Bai," hey Ming Xue, are you blushing right now?"

Ming Xue, "No."

Xiao Bai, "You're ears can't fool me, you know? HAHAHA."

'I— I, I may have a heart disorder. This just started when I got acquainted with young master. What is this throbbing I'm feeling? My face is so hot, my ears are so hot. It feels like my blood all rushed upward. I feel very weird!', ming xue ranted inside his head.

Xiao bai wasn't aware of this. He just felt that ming xue is such a loner, someone who doesn't know how to communicate with others.

So as a friend he naturally would help the other to open up to him, although deep inside Xiao Bai himself don't want to be friendly with others, since he decided to befriend ming xue he would of course do his best for him.

In conclusion he felt that ming xue can be trusted and should be kept to his side. If he somehow treated the other poorly, one day, ming xue might retaliate against him.

But Xiao Bai doesn't know that his actions are going to a more complicated path.

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Xiao bai and ming xue was standing infront of the academy. They didn't expected that the whole mountain is the academy, its almost the same as those immortal peaks in ancient dramas that he watched in the past.

A senior student saw them walking around aimlessly approached and led them to their destination. On the way, xiao bai saw that the academy is very well managed.

It even has a stone patch to walk on while flowering trees and green grass are growing beside the path. And because it was spring the trees and surrounding plants are all in full bloom, it was an explanation of colors.

The peach blossoms, cherry blossoms and wisteria all exposed their beauties to the world, the falling petals like a bewitching mist. The pleasant view is mesmerizing, the pleasant smell is intoxicating.

Xiao bai also noticed some pavilions on the way and different building with two to three floors majestically standing upright within the sea of nature and concluded that this was the classrooms or other facilities that he didn't know.

They arrived at a semi-circular stage, while other half of the circle have sits that looked like a stair case. It was similar to an ancient greek's theater stage.

The center circle was an open space letting the sunlight pass through, but thankfully there are roofs on all sides giving a shadow to protect them from the sun. In short it was like dome but not fully a dome.

Such a great architural design for this era. Xiao Bai was completely amazed.

The students sat one by one while the teachers are also settling at the chairs specially for them in the stage. And the pair also find themselves a sit, and thanked the senior brother that led them inside.

They waited for a few more minutes and a tall man walked in the center of the stage. Such a dignified presence! All eyes fell on him the moment he appeared.

But there's something that's bothering Xiao Bai since he saw the man, he felt like he saw his face somewhere.

The man cleared his throat and all the remaining whispers came to a total silence that a drop of needle could be heard.

Xiao bai's brain storming also came to a half and pressed the issue at the back of his mind.

Seeing that the crowd had settled the man started his speech, "A good day to all of you who are here to witness a legendary beginning of a newborn genius. I am Yang ChenHai, descendant of Yang Gui's founding father Yang An. I am standing here to say that someday, one of you who are here today may become a respectable minister, a brave general, or even an Emperor or Empress.

However, reaching the top isn't as easy as it seems, remember inside this school means you are chosen. Inside this school means you are special. Prove that we didn't made a mistake to allow you to enter, prove to the world and the four seas that you have what it takes.

Always remember the academy is your battlefield and knowledge is your weapon; ignorance is your choice but expect failure in the future."

Mr. Yang went on for about 30 minutes. His words of wisdom, unforgettable. When he finished the whole area was assaulted by booming clips everywhere.

He nodded to the crowd and went to his chair, then a female teacher stood up and announced the details of the exam.

In exactly 11:00 am, students will be divided to four groups and the members of the student union committee will lead them to the rooms prepared for the exam.

Just as she finished, about ten senior students lined up in the center. Three of them are standing in their position while the seven others helped in dividing the people.

Uniformly they all wore green robes with red and gold tassle. This seems to be a symbol that you are a part of the said committee.

The senior that helped Xiao Bai and ming xue earlier once again met them and pointed them to their designated group. The senior is not only kind but also one of the student union committee, truly a role model!

He heard that only those with extraordinary skill either on writing or fighting can join.

Xiao bai and ming xue went to the first line when suddenly a running figure bumped into him. Because of the impact, he lost his balance and hit his butt on the ground making him groan and pat his bum.

Ming xue immediately helped his young master to stand up and glared at the perpetrator. Xiao Bai also gave a menacing look at the other.

"Sorry! I'm really sorry! I didn't mean to. I thought the first line will set off so I hurriedly ran in here and bumped into you.", he hurriedly explained.

His expression that of aggrieving guilt but his mind was shouting words of praise at how beautiful Xiao Bai's eyes are looking directly at him with contempt and those lips that slightly pouted because of his temper.

He looked like an angry kitten, too cute for this world.

Xiao Bai dusted his robes and sneered at the stranger, not saying any more words. Indeed, this stranger is very handsome, tall, phoenix eyes, sword-like brows, thin lips, strong body built and tan skinned. In short, he fitted all the bill.

However, Xiao Bai came to the school not to be idle and find a lover, he came here to study and find that mysterious prince.

"What's your name?" Ming Xue asked.

"Qin WeiXu.", XuWei answered. Using this name is not an unfamiliar occurence to him.

This name, although not the real one, is used more often than the original. The name XuWei is for the palace but WeiXu is him on the normal bases of outside life.

Of course, ming xue just asked this in courtesy he is not the least bit interested in someone who've hurt his young master, "I'm ming xue, and this is my young master, Wang Bai, it's my pleasure to be your acquaintance." he also introduced themselves nodded and turned his back to XuWei.

Now the group is ready to set off, XuWei was at the end of the line, infront of him is Ming Xue and infront of Ming Xue is Xiao Bai.

Xuwei is currently ranting all kinds of curses in his mind because of Ming Xue's intrusion at his chance to get acquainted with his kitten.

The student union committee member that are leading them is a cute female senior. She is very energetic and full of charisma.

On the way to their destination they passdd through several building and she explained them in a short and on-point way.

"Here we are!" she said when they searched a big room, although its a room the sides are not covered with woods or any bamboo curtains, instead it was an open view of the scenery outside which is full towering bamboo trees. The whole place exudes the words 'scholarly'.

Entering inside they saw that there are tables with paper, brush, and ink on top of it. There is also an insence burner in every corner of the room, making it more relaxing.

"Everyone please go to your chosen sit." She said. Xiao Bai and Ming Xue chose to sit at the furthest corner, not wanting to stand out.

"My fellow Yang Gui schoolmates, we are currently at the Bamboo paradise area. The academy has four different kinds of area with diverse designs and outline, the other groups went to the Flowering Dream area, and the Lotus Cove area. It was said that the founder of Yang Gui had a son and two daughters.

The whole mountain was suppossed to be their home and because he loved the three dearly he built three different places within the mountain to please them. Because his son is a scholar and loves to read poem and play instruments at a quite place, he built this Bamboo Paradise.

His first daughter loves to watch different flowering trees in spring as there petals fall and sway with the dance so he made the Flowering Dream, and lastly his youngest daughter likes to eat lotus seeds and raise koi fishes since young therefore he gifted her the Lotus Cove.

And until today, after generation by generations, they kept this areas well-maintained and managed. But don't worry, after the entrance exam you are free to wander around, that is if still have the energy to move around." She explained with a wink.

This time the male teacher who also looked so scholarly who sat at the center front of the room finally made a noise, "aherrmm", he cleared his throat, "Thank you for your short vision of Yang Gui's history. But for now lets start the exam. As you see above your tables, there writing equipments. In this exam we will determine your visions and knowledge in literary and politics. All you have to do is to write an essay about..."

Xiao Bai just grinned and confidently wrote. His brush dancing on his paper nonstop. XuWei who was sitting behind him also kept stealing glances at his back. The way he hold his brush, even the way he sits are all such in a perfect posture.

His back looks so beautiful, even his hair is like a waterfall. I want to touch.

When XuWei looked down at his paper he was quite shocked. He subconsciously drew Xiao bai on his paper. He just face palmed and started to write seriously.

Such an easy issue he could deal with this with just a snap of his finger.

Ming Xue was well aware of XuWei's actions, however he couldn't just alarm Xiao Bai. It's his duty to protect him so of course he would also protect Xiao bai's peace of mind.

For now, he should wait and observe this WeiXu's action and also perhaps get his background checked.

Finally a bell resounded in the whole mountain. It indicated that the one hour essay writing is done. The teacher walked around and collected the paper.

When he walked towards Xiao bai' and Xuwei's papers he smiled in appreciation as he took a glance at their works. Looks like this year's full of genuises as well.

Xiao bai stretched his limbs and body as soon as he stepped out of the room. They followed the crowd back and find an empty pavilion to have their lunch.

"Ming xue, what's the lunch today?", Xiao Bai asked in full anticipation.

"We have Buddha Jumps Over The Wall, Pork and Radish Dumplings, and honeyed walnuts as desert." Ming xue inumerated as he placed them on the table one by one. He then passed a chopstick to his young master and they began to eat.

"Excuse me can I join you? As you can see, there are no vacant place." A voice disturbed them. The two looked up to the newcomer only to find the same person.

Xiao Bai, "You again? Are you following us?"

XuWei, "No,no. I just happen to see that there is more space here for me to sit. Its just a coincidence or was it fats that brought us together?"

Xiao bai faked a smile and allowed him to join them. XuWei immediately thanked him, glanced at Ming Xue who have been giving him death glares, and sat in beside Xiao Bai. Xiao Bai in the other hand completely ignored him.

"Here." XuWei said and placed a food in Xiao bai's plate. Xiao bai shot him a look and XuWei just smiled, "Try it, treat it as my thanks."

Xiao Bai said as a matter of fact, "Look. You don't need to do this, besides no need to get too attached, we'll be parting soon anyways."

XuWei hmmed as if thinking, "Nope. I don't think so."

Xiao bai, "What do you mean?"

XuWei, "nothing...I'll be going now." He stood up and turned his back against them while waving his hand leisurely.

Ming xue, "Tsked, what's his problem?" Xiao Bai shruged and went back to eating.

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The bell rang around 14:00. The students who sat idle a while ago immediately went back to the dome. Mr. Yang was already at the stage waiting for the students to fill in.

"My dear students. Are your energy refilled?" He asked. The crowd also answered him.

Mr. Yang smiled and nodded to them, "Earlier you used your brain now you'll be using your strength. This afternoon each and one of you will showcase your skills in martial arts, archery, and sword fighting."

The students erupted in full excitement. Finally, they could show off their years of training.

Mr. Yang raised his hand indicating that they have to calm down, "A while ago, the teachers have collected your essay papers, right? They recorded the names and made match ups according to your aesthetics, personality, identity and other factors. Currently there are about a hundred freshmans this year. We will call the chosen match ups, the three events will happen at the same time. And on last thing, please observe your fellow freshman."

After that, murmursnand whispers echoed. Ming xue nodded, "Indeed, this is a perfect time to observe others and see if they are useful."

Xiao Bai, "Yes. I remember that Luo Ziyan and Yuan XiangXin are here. We couldn't get to see them earlier since they may have been in another group, this time we could finally see them. But wait, does this mean that we have to be matched for three times?!"

Ming Xue, "Yes. However I'm sure that the school will just assess the students' capacity and no harm will be done."

Xiao Bai, "Then that's good. I'm just worried that what if we are already beaten to death and still have to participate in the two others, wouldn't that be unfair?"

The students once again exitted the dome and went to the training field. It was a very vast field full of different weapons and equipments displayed on the sheds.

The training field was separated by fences that formed a big square and outside the square is a stair chair. The students settled at the descending long chairs and waited for their names to be called.

The teachers also arrived and sat at the the VIP sits which is the biggest and tallest stair chair. The male teacher that facilitated Xiao Bai at the Bamboo Paradise was the announcer.

"For the first match in martial arts. Di Jing and Lu Shang. For archery,....."

This went on for about an hour. And xiao bai was quite amaze to see different kinds of fighting styles and so on. However what encourage him to observe more was their movements. They seem to slower?

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Author's note: Chapter 10 is done!

XuWei is finally making a move! He's really doing it so his little Bai will notice him. Did you see it? Ming xue is annoyed😂. I wonder why? 🤷🏻‍♀🤫

☘Mini theater☘

XuWei: Rou Lan, you go to the next group. I'll be with Xiao bai.

Ruo lan: But young master, I am your personal guard. I need to ensure your safety.

XuWei: Listen here. You're fully aware that I can protect my self, besides, I couldn't let Ming Xue see you, it'll cause unnecessary trouble.

Ruo lan: Okay, let's meet at lunch.

Xuwei: Let's not meet for the rest of the day. Is. That. Clear?!.

Ruo lan: ⋰( ͡°□͡°)⋱Yes, yes!

*XuWei ran and bumped to his wife*

Ruo lan in his mind: The heck! Your Highness, is your brain damaged? What's with this cliché situation? I can't watch this anymore. Please don't disgrace yourselfಥ_ಥ.