Chapter 2: Displaying Your Might! Leaving the Students in Awe!

Baixiao Martial Institute offered a variety of classes, but Class 1 was renowned for its exceptionally gifted students. With only sixty available slots, it represented the pinnacle of talent within the academy. While other classes featured strong individuals, none could rival those in Class 1. This has been an changed tradition at Baixiao Martial Institute.

As a result, students in Class 1 often exhibited a rebellious streak and showed little regard for their peers. Although numerous mentors were present, the students merely paid them lip service; in their eyes, these mentors were just stepping stones on their path to greatness.

Among these students, Xiao Zhen stood out the most.

Before his absence, Xiao Zhen had lacked a cultivation base and had been limited to discussing theoretical concepts rather than practical applications. However, his extraordinary talent and insight allowed him to motivate many students. After he shared his insights, numerous classmates adopted his methods, leading to their success.

This earned Xiao Zhen a considerable following.

Yet, not all students were receptive to Xiao Zhen's teachings. Some, particularly those who had previously been overshadowed by him, remained disgruntled. Among them were Han Qinglong, the grandson of the Minister of War, and Xu Yuan, the grandson of the Minister of Rites. Their displeasure was further fueled by their mutual interest in Lian Xiang.

As Xiao Zhen and Lian Xiang entered the classroom, Han Qinglong and Xu Yuan exchanged knowing glances and snickered, planning to make things difficult for Xiao Zhen that day.

Unfazed, Xiao Zhen had grown accustomed to such hostility. Clearing his throat, he declared, "Today, I will teach you how to enchance your chances of breaking through."

Han Qinglong interjected, "Teacher, I've been stuck at Martial Commander Nine Cycles for ages. What's the secret to advancing?"

Xu Yuan chimed in, his expression smug. "Yes, Teacher. I'm in the same boat. But how can you teach us if you don't have a cultivation base?"

His tone dripped with sarcasm, drawing mixed reactions from their classmates—some eager for entertainment while others frowned in disapproval.

"It's quite simple, really. Just break through!" Xiao Zhen replied confidently.

In an instant, he summoned the strength of a Martial Commander at Nine Cycles.

With a surge of energy, Xiao Zhen broke through to the Martial Emperor stage, his aura enveloping the entire classroom, leaving the audience in stunned silence.

As his aura radiated, Hua Qinglong and Xu Yuan's eyes widened in disbelief.

"Wait, you've regained your strength?" they exclaimed, incredulous.

Xiao Zhen glanced at them casually. "I've regained a portion of my power. While it may not match the theoretical cultivation base I would have achieved in three years, it's certainly enough to overshadow you both. If you doubt me, feel free to challenge me right now."

Hua Qinglong and Xu Yuan's expressions darkened.

How could it be that Xiao Zhen, who had seemingly lost his cultivation for three years, returned so strong? The idea was infuriating.

The rest of the class was equally astonished.

If Xiao Zhen's strength had indeed returned, it would send shockwaves throughout Baixiao Martial Institute.

Prominent families and royal households within the Baixiao Dynasty would likely be unsettled.

Perhaps even the Lian family might reconsider a marriage alliance?

After all, Xiao Zhen was celebrated as the most gifted genius of his generation in the Baixiao Dynasty!

His return was no trivial matter.

Everyone understood that both Baixiao Martial Institute and the Baixiao Dynasty might soon face upheaval due to the extraordinary young man standing before them.

He wielded significant influence, and it was difficult to predict how those who once dismissed Xiao Zhen would react.

"Now, does anyone have questions?" Xiao Zhen asked, scanning the classroom.

Silence enveloped the room, each student stunned by his display of power.

No one dared voice any doubts or objections.

The atmosphere was thick with tension, a mixture of awe and apprehension.

Finally, Lian Xiang broke the silence, her eyes shining with admiration. "Xiao Zhen big brother, that was amazing! I always knew you had it in you!"

A shy smile crept onto Xiao Zhen's face at her praise. "Thanks, Xiang. But this is just the beginning. You all have the potential to be just as strong."

Hua Qinglong, struggling to regain his composure, attempted to reassert himself. "Even if you've regained your strength, it doesn't change the fact that you're still a teacher, while we are your students."

Xu Yuan added mockingly, "Right! No matter how powerful you are, you still have to teach us!"

Xiao Zhen's expression hardened, but he maintained his calm demeanor. "Teaching is not just about having power; it's about imparting knowledge and guiding you through your journeys. My strength doesn't diminish my role as your mentor."

He glanced around the classroom, gauging their reactions.

"I may not have a cultivation base as of now, but that doesn't mean I lack the ability to help you succeed. Remember, the true essence of cultivation lies not only in power but in understanding, perseverance, and strategy."

His words resonated with some of the students, who nodded thoughtfully.

The atmosphere in the classroom began to shift as they considered Xiao Zhen's insights.

Feeling emboldened, Lian Xiang raised her hand. "Then, what can we do to improve our chances of breaking through?"

"Great question, Xiang!" Xiao Zhen encouraged her. "The first step is to understand your own cultivation techniques and how they interact with the Spiritual Qi around you. Each technique has its unique requirements and methods for harnessing energy."

He elaborated on the principles of cultivation, outlining various strategies to optimize their training.

Classmates who had once doubted him listened intently, taking notes and asking questions.

Hua Qinglong and Xu Yuan, still seething, struggled to mask their annoyance as they saw their peers beginning to respect Xiao Zhen once again.

But Xiao Zhen remained focused, directing his attention to the students who genuinely wanted to learn.

As the lesson progressed, Xiao Zhen's passion for teaching shone through. He fostered an engaging environment, encouraging students to share their experiences and challenges.

After class, Lian Xiang approached him, her eyes sparkling with admiration. "You were incredible today, Xiao Zhen big brother! I can't wait for our next class!"

"Thanks, Xiang. I'm just doing my job," he replied modestly, feeling a swell of pride at her compliment.

As they exited the classroom together, Lian Xiang couldn't contain her excitement. "Do you think the others will respect you now?"

Xiao Zhen chuckled lightly. "Respect is earned, not given. I'll keep proving myself, one lesson at a time."

Hua Qinglong and Xu Yuan watched from a distance, frustration etched on their faces. They understood that Xiao Zhen's return would shake things up within the academy.

With renewed determination, they plotted their next move, vowing to undermine Xiao Zhen's efforts and reestablish their own positions.

However, as Xiao Zhen walked alongside Lian Xiang, he felt a sense of hope.

The challenges ahead were daunting, but he was ready to face them head-on.

With a supportive friend by his side and newfound strength, he was prepared to navigate the complexities of his new life at Baixiao Martial Institute.