Weapon Forging Apprentice?

Weapon Forging Apprentice?

Under the vast expanse of the cerulean sky, the hushed murmurings of the Divine Weapon Academy courtyard ceased as the mellifluous voice of Moon rang out. Her words were like a thunderclap amidst a tranquil summer's day, causing a ripple of astonishment to wash over the gathered crowd. Bizarre expressions danced upon the faces of those who had witnessed Moon's strange actions over the past few days, but her latest proclamation was the pinnacle of audacity.

Rong Yan and Shen Jing were no strangers to fame within the hallowed halls of the academy. Proficient in the arcane craft of divine inscriptions, they had both attained the pinnacle of craftsmanship, capable of forging high-tier fourth-ranked weapons. The audacity of Moon to challenge Rong Yan on behalf of her friend left them stupefied.

Indeed, both Rong Yan and Shen Jing were momentarily struck dumb by this impertinence. However, it didn't take long for Shen Jing's mesmerizing eyes to shimmer with a frigid determination. She locked her gaze on Qin Wentian and issued a stern warning, her words dripping with ice, "You best not consider leaving this place."

With that, she gracefully ascended into the heavens, her amethyst skirt billowing in the wind. Her form was a portrait of grace and beauty as she perched atop the treasure pagoda, her voice cutting like a dagger as she taunted Moon, "Useless trash, you don't know your place."

Turning her attention to Wang Yunfei, Shen Jing bestowed a sweet smile and nodded respectfully, "Senior."

Wang Yunfei acknowledged her with a slight inclination of his head. Shen Jing's unparalleled skill in weapon forging, combined with her notable background and beauty, had left a favorable impression on him. Prior to this moment, Moon had hardly registered on his radar, but now, as he scrutinized her more closely, he found her presence and beauty rivaled Shen Jing's. The competitive spark radiating from her, her pure and piercing eyes, all conspired to pique his interest.

Rong Yan, on the other hand, could hardly contain his ire. Being challenged publicly had darkened his complexion considerably. He pointed an accusing finger at Qin Wentian and barked, "If you lose, don't even dream of humiliating him. It might be a challenge for him to walk out of this academy in one piece."

With those words, Rong Yan ascended to the pinnacle, staking his claim to one of the four coveted forging spots. The remaining participants chose their positions and braced themselves for the intense battle that was about to unfold. The showdown at the pinnacle was bound to attract the attention of the academy's esteemed elders.

The scorching heat hung heavy in the air as participants retrieved their pre-mixed metallic compositions. They ignited the furnaces provided, their focus solely on creating divine weapons.

Qin Wentian observed calmly, acknowledging the convenient arrangement of the treasure pagoda's flames, which could be directed precisely to the furnaces, allowing for precise control of intensity. Despite Rong Yan and Shen Jing's discourtesy, he remained unperturbed. To him, they were mere passersby, unworthy of his attention.

Moon, on the other hand, had captured his admiration. As she crafted her divine weapon, her every movement exuded a quiet, unyielding determination. Though not flashy, her foundational skills were impeccable, exposing Qin Wentian's own shortcomings in the art of weapon forging. Although he excelled in inscribing divine inscriptions, Moon surpassed him in other facets of the craft.

Moon's unassuming performance resonated deeply with Qin Wentian. He believed that, should the academy's elders possess any discernment, they would recognize her as a gem worthy of polishing.

The year-end examination was under the watchful gaze of the academy's esteemed elders, with records documenting every participant's weapon forging process. The gravity of this examination weighed heavily on everyone, as it would determine the resources allocated to them in the coming year.

The attention of the crowd, however, remained fixated on Wang Yunfei. He meticulously forged a remarkably thin armored robe, a feat that demanded exceptional skill in inscribing defensive divine inscriptions to withstand even the fiercest of attacks. The grandmasters watching were all smiles, though they knew that Wang Yunfei was already apprenticed to a master, and their hopes of recruiting him were in vain.

As the crafting commenced, Shen Jing chose to forge a ruler, Rong Yan a long spear, and Moon, with determination blazing in her eyes, embarked on crafting a pair of divine wings. The stage was set for a competition that would determine the future of these young artisans.

The atmosphere in the Divine Weapon Academy's courtyard crackled with anticipation as the forging competition unfolded. Skilled artisans, some esteemed grandmasters among them, had their eyes fixed on the determined figure of Moon. Her choice of crafting divine wings was nothing short of audacious, and it had captured the attention of the onlookers.

Divine wings were a challenging item to create, particularly under the time constraints of the year-end examination. There would be no extensions granted; every participant had to complete their weapon within the allocated timeframe.

Qin Wentian, watching with a knowing smile, leaned in to share his thoughts with those nearby. "It's time for her to inscribe the divine inscriptions. As long as she doesn't make a mistake at this crucial stage, there's no doubt her creation will surpass those of Shen Jing and Rong Yan."

Qin Wentian's confidence in Moon's abilities stemmed from the fact that he had personally tutored her in the intricate art of divine inscriptions. The inscription she was about to etch contained both offensive and defensive properties, along with an augmentation of speed. Though the runic outlines were exceedingly complex, once completed, they would undoubtedly outshine the creations of Shen Jing and Rong Yan.

Moon possessed slender, elegant fingers, and her fair hands were a sight to behold. Her movements were deliberate and unwavering as she immersed herself entirely in engraving the divine inscriptions. Her focus was unshakable, akin to a serene lake. Her goal at this moment wasn't merely to earn the elders' recognition for academy resources; it was to reclaim the respect rightfully owed to Qin Wentian.

As time drifted away, a beam of light pierced the sky, signaling Wang Yunfei as the first to complete his forging. This achievement drew nods of admiration from the crowd.

However, Wang Yunfei's initial curiosity toward Moon and Shen Jing soon gave way to astonishment. Moon's inscriptions were nothing short of extraordinary, and her choice of materials was top-tier, perfectly suited for a peak-tier fourth-grade divine weapon.

Wang Yunfei's countenance darkened as he beheld the lady in white. Her fair neck and revealed collarbones glistened with perspiration, and her unwavering focus was immensely alluring to him.

Turning his gaze toward Shen Jing, he noted a tinge of dissatisfaction on her face regarding her own creation. Her regal demeanor and princess-like aura stood in stark contrast to Moon's humility. In this moment, Wang Yunfei realized that the once-unnoticed Moon intrigued him more than the haughty Shen Jing.

Within the treasure pagoda, participants completed their weapons one after another. The divine weapons exuded an aura of sharpness that enveloped the entire pagoda, creating a relentless symphony of humming blades.

Rong Yan heaved a sigh of relief as he finished forging his long spear. "Finally, completed."

"I'm done as well," Shen Jing said softly, revealing her fiery-colored divine ruler.

Their attention then turned to Moon, who was still patiently waiting for her divine wings to cool off. The wings emanated a sense of ethereal beauty, but Shen Jing couldn't resist a taunt. "Beauty alone won't make a divine weapon effective in combat."

With a flourish, Shen Jing unleashed her own divine weapon, infusing it with astral energy. The result was a terrifying burst of roaring flames, as if a fierce elemental fire spirit had been unleashed. It was a truly formidable sight.

"High-grade fourth-ranked divine weapon, and it's above average among the high-grade ones," Wang Yunfei commented in hushed tones.

"Thank you, senior," Shen Jing replied with an elegant smile, to which Wang Yunfei nodded in acknowledgment.

Rong Yan followed suit, infusing his long spear with astral energy, causing it to radiate sharpness. It, too, was a high-grade fourth-ranked divine weapon.

As the two exchanged glances, their attention returned to Moon. Her hands gracefully moved, summoning the divine wings she had crafted. The pure white radiance emanating from them was breathtaking, and as the wings gently fluttered on her back, Moon transformed into an ethereal angel, radiating an otherworldly beauty that left everyone spellbound.

A deafening buzz reverberated through the air, a symphony of energy coursing through the atmosphere. Moon's divine wings flickered, casting forth a dazzling silver radiance that surged skyward with an awe-inspiring force. Rong Yan and Shen Jing watched in stunned disbelief as the luminous display unfolded before them, their hearts quaking in response.

Moon ascended gracefully, her silhouette bathed in the silvery glow emanating from her pure white wings. Her gaze fixed upon Shen Jing and Rong Yan, a silent challenge in her eyes that spoke volumes.

Words became superfluous.

"Impossible," Rong Yan stammered, his countenance contorted in a grotesque display of disbelief.

Wang Yunfei, the observer of this astounding spectacle, broke the silence with his measured tone. "The divine weapon that Junior Sister Moon has crafted is a top-grade fourth-ranked masterpiece. It boasts both offensive and defensive capabilities, along with a speed-enhancing enchantment. It far surpasses the creations of both of you."

Rong Yan couldn't help but curse himself inwardly for his previous blindness. How had he failed to recognize Moon's exceptional talent? She was a jewel hidden in plain sight.

Shen Jing's face shifted between shades of envy and frustration. The turn of events had taken her by surprise, and she struggled to come to terms with the reality unfolding before her.

Moon, her resolve unyielding, addressed Shen Jing with a chilling tone. "Shen Jing, if you and Rong Yan apologize to my friend, I may consider letting this matter slide."

But Shen Jing remained as obstinate as ever, her pride unshaken. "Apologize to a mere human? You must be joking, Moon. While your talent in crafting divine weapons is commendable, your status is so low that you can only befriend people of that caliber."

"In that case, leave the Divine Weapon Academy," Moon retorted, her icy demeanor cutting through the tension.

"You—" Shen Jing's eyes locked onto Moon's, a silent battle of wills ensuing.

Wang Yunfei, amused by the scene before him, interjected with a touch of humor. "Junior Sister Moon, your mastery of weapon crafting is truly exceptional. Allow me to introduce you to my master. I'll request that he take you under his wing as his personal disciple. How does that sound?"

Moon's beautiful eyes briefly froze in surprise before lighting up with a hint of delight. Wang Yunfei, a prominent figure within the academy, had just extended an enticing offer. "Thank you, Senior."

Wang Yunfei's easygoing laughter resonated in the air. He had ulterior motives, and Moon's exceptional qualities had not escaped his notice.

"Junior Sister Shen Jing, what exactly is the root of your grievances with Junior Sister Moon? Must it escalate into such an unpleasant situation?" Wang Yunfei turned his attention to Shen Jing, his words carrying a note of mediation.

Shen Jing, who had been brimming with anger and jealousy moments ago, found herself unexpectedly intrigued by Wang Yunfei's suggestion. "Earlier, in the city, Rong Yan and I encountered a lone traveler. He knew we were members of the Divine Weapon Academy and desperately sought our recommendation to gain entry. We assisted him in securing an apprenticeship and eventually introduced him to Moon. However, it appears that the two of them developed feelings for each other while crafting weapons together, leading to Moon's sudden arrogance."

Wang Yunfei sighed inwardly, not expecting such a trivial matter to be at the heart of the rift between Moon and Shen Jing. Nevertheless, he couldn't help but smile. "Junior Sister Moon, I can recommend a few outstanding apprentices to you."

"Senior, things aren't as Shen Jing described. It was Rong Yan and Shen Jing who lacked respect for others," Moon countered.

"In that case, allow me to apologize on behalf of Junior Sister Shen Jing. You are, after all, fellow apprentices. Must a small dispute tarnish the harmony between you?" Wang Yunfei suggested, aiming to reconcile the two.

Moon's displeasure at Wang Yunfei's dismissal of the issue was palpable, but her respect for the academy's prodigious senior restrained her. She replied with a hint of frustration, "Senior, there is no need for you to apologize on her behalf. This matter is unrelated to you."

Wang Yunfei's satisfied smile was evident in his voice as he concluded, "Then, let us consider this matter resolved. I will recommend some outstanding apprentices to Moon. Don't allow a mere apprentice to sour the relationship between you two. Remember, an apprentice is still just an apprentice, not a true member of our Divine Weapon Academy. They are not one of us."

Moon stood there, her once sparkling eyes now clouded with disappointment as she gazed at Wang Yunfei. A sense of betrayal welled up within her. But then, her disappointment morphed into something else entirely when she noticed Qin Wentian holding Little Rascal in his arms, preparing to leave the scene. The departure of her friend, her confidant, ached like a void in her heart.

"Not 'one of us'? Wang Yunfei, I never thought you'd be the kind of person to say such things," Moon's countenance shifted from disappointment to frostiness. With a determined resolve, she descended from the pagoda, calling out, "Tianwen."

Qin Wentian turned to face Moon, a warm smile playing on his lips. "Moon, your examination has concluded, and it's time for me to take my leave. Don't let my presence cloud your spirits."

"Hypocrite," Shen Jing couldn't help but mutter, her voice laced with bitterness as she noticed Wang Yunfei's displeasure.

"It appears that they have indeed fallen for each other," Rong Yan said, with no intention of keeping his voice down. His words reached the ears of the assembled crowd, adding fuel to the already tense situation.

Wang Yunfei, a prominent figure within the Divine Weapon Academy, had been berated in public, and his temper flared. He turned his icy gaze toward Qin Wentian and Moon, his voice dripping with disdain. "A mere apprentice, do you think the Divine Weapon Academy is a place where you can come and go as you please?"

Despite his initial intent to mediate between Moon and Shen Jing, Wang Yunfei had not expected that Moon would sever ties with him over an apprentice. He had hoped to earn their favor and showcase his charisma. But to be compared to an apprentice was an affront he could not tolerate.

Qin Wentian, his emotions concealed behind an inscrutable mask, inclined his head slightly and looked at Wang Yunfei. Initially, he had hoped to leave quietly without causing a scene. Little did he know how events would unfold.

With each step, Qin Wentian left an intricate trail of divine inscriptions on the ground. The square shimmered with the resplendent glow of these inscriptions, and they seemed to come to life, revealing the outlines of formidable beasts.

Gasps of astonishment swept through the crowd. It was incomprehensible. How could one produce divine inscriptions with every step? And to make matters more astonishing, these inscriptions were all powerful fourth-ranked ones.

"You have no right to speak to me," Qin Wentian declared, his eyes locking onto Wang Yunfei's with unwavering determination.