Library of Heaven’s Path - Chapter 235

Chapter 235: Xuanluo Mountain Range

“Why?”

Upon seeing their stupefied expressions, Zhang Xuan immediately lowered his head to take a look. With a single glance, he froze as well.

Vivid numbers appeared on the jade: 5.1.

“5.1?”

Zhang Xuan finally understood the trauma the three master teachers were going through. Even he was feeling lightheaded with shock at this moment.

He had tested it many times yesterday, and the highest he had ever reached was 0.1. Why did it suddenly soar to 5.1?

Could it be…

“That golden page has raised my Soul Depth by… 5.0?”

Zhang Xuan’s mouth twitched.

His eyeballs were about to pop out onto the ground.

He knew that the Book of Heaven’s Path was incredible, but he couldn’t have dreamt that it would be this amazing!

What Soul Depth cultivation technique or Enlightenment Jade? They were all useless before it.

Raising a person’s Soul Depth by 5.0 in an instant….

Anyone who heard of it would die from shock.

“Having a Soul Depth of 3 qualifies you to take the 1-star master teacher examination. When it reaches 6, you can take the 2-star master teacher examination…. To possess a Soul Depth of 5.1 the moment you reach Heart of Tranquil Water, with a good Soul Depth cultivation technique, you will be eligible to take the 2-star master teacher examination in just a few years!”

Recovering from their shock, the faces of Liu Ling and the others flushed in agitation.

When they had just reached Heart of Tranquil Water, their Soul Depth was only 1.5. Yet this fellow before their eyes had a staggering 5.1 Soul Depth. With his talent, as long as he cultivated diligently, he would surpass them in just a few years’ time. In fact, it was highly likely he would be able to become a 2-star master teacher before them.

Indeed, ordinary mortals shouldn’t try comparing themselves to geniuses.

“Teacher!”

All of the sudden, Lu Xun walked through the crowd and up to them.

He didn’t attend Zhang Xuan’s lecture previously because he was on the verge of achieving a breakthrough and had to focus all of his attention into the matter.

“How are things?”

Upon seeing his appearance, Liu Ling and the others immediately turned their attention to him.

“Teacher told me yesterday that my competitive nature and excessive concern over climbing out of my father’s shadow has impeded me from reaching Heart of Tranquil Water. After contemplation, I came to a realization and made up with my father. After that, my State of Mind started to rise slowly, and eventually… I managed to achieve a breakthrough!”

Lu Xun seemed to have recovered his confidence.

All along, his State of Mind had been stuck in a bottleneck, and for some reason unknown to him, he wasn’t able to reach Heart of Tranquil Water no matter how hard he tried. Initially, he attributed it to his lack of experience, but after Liu shi’s guidance, he realized that it was due to his obstinacy.

He couldn’t have imagined that it was his stiff relationship with his father that had stopped him from reaching higher heights.

Reaching Heart of Tranquil Water in his twenties… He probably broke the record of Tianxuan Kingdom!

All along the way, he was firmly restrained by Zhang Xuan on all aspects, be it his cultivation, Way of Tea, or painting. Now that he had beat him in achieving Heart of Tranquil Water first, he finally felt his confidence returning to him!

Standing ramrod straight, Lu Xun wore a gentle smile.

“Have you checked it yet? What’s your Soul Depth?” Hearing that he had achieved a breakthrough, Liu Ling was delighted and hurriedly asked him on that matter.

“I’ve already checked it!” Lu Xun chuckled softly. The exhilaration in his eyes was hard to conceal. “Teacher said that if one achieves a Soul Depth exceeding that of 1.0 upon reaching Heart of Tranquil Water, there is a 50% chance of him becoming a master teacher in the future. If it reaches 1.5, there is a 70% chance of him becoming a master teacher. My Soul Depth is…”

After pausing for a moment, he scanned their faces before revealing, “1.8!”

Placing his hands behind his back, Lu Xun excitedly waited for the astonished looks on the three master teachers’ faces. After all, his Soul Depth was higher than the three master teachers when they were younger.

Yet, contrary to their expectations, they only replied with an “oh!” and turned their attention back to Zhang Xuan. Excitement could clearly be seen on their faces as they gazed at him intently.

Upon seeing him being sidelined despite his outstanding results, Lu Xun felt dismayed.

Logically speaking, shouldn’t they rush up excitedly to gather around him upon hearing of his achievement and compliment him profusely?

Why were they gathering around Zhang laoshi instead?

Perplexed, he turned to look at Zhang Xuan and saw the Stone of Insight in his hand. With a single glance, he froze.

“5.1?”

Upon seeing the number, Lu Xun convulsed violently and tears spilled forth from his eyes.

The heck, aren’t I embarrassing myself by coming to brag in front of you….

To think that I was gleeful for so long over this matter….

…

Xuanluo Mountain Range was a vast mountainous region. Countless trees towered and savage beasts roamed freely amid them. Without sufficient strength, it was hard to travel through the mountain range.

“I’ve been on this road once and it’s well hidden. If you miss the turn and get lost, it will be difficult for you to find your way out of the forest!” Shen Bi Ru said with a smile as she led the way.

Zhang Xuan followed closely behind her.

After Zhang Xuan was done with the public lecture, he entrusted Zhao Ya and the others to the three master teachers and requested that they help him take them to Tianwu Royal City. Then, without much hesitation, he entered the Xuanluo Mountain Range along with Shen Bi Ru to look for the Beast Hall.

Savage beasts ran wild here; flora and fauna covered the paths. If not for Shen Bi Ru, Zhang Xuan thought that he would probably have lost his way and ended up wandering around the mountains.

After three days of traveling, the two of them felt slightly drained.

“Isn’t the Beast Hall hidden too deep in the mountain range? How do they survive like that?” Zhang Xuan asked curiously.

Humans have many needs, such as socializing, food, medicine, and many other kinds of resources. Given how deep into the wilderness the Beast Hall was, it was inconvenient for them to purchase anything!

“There are aerial savage beasts in the Beast Hall. They could easily travel the distance we covered in three days in just an hour on their beast mounts.” Shen Bi Ru shook her head.

When she first followed someone else to the Beast Hall, the same question appeared in her head as well. Only after her arrival did she realize how ridiculous her concerns were.

“Besides, when you reach the Beast Hall, you will realize that it isn’t too far from Beiwu Kingdom and Hanwu Kingdom. There are many people who travel to and from the Beast Hall every day, so they never suffer a shortage of resources,” Shen Bi Ru continued.

In the past few days, Zhang Xuan had studied the maps of Tianxuan Kingdom and the other surrounding kingdoms in the atlas from the Kingdom’s Book Collection Vault, and he realized that they weren’t too far from one another. If not for the presence of the Xuanluo Mountain Range serving as a natural blockade, Tianxuan Kingdom would have long descended into chaos.

“Given the numerous savage beasts in Xuanluo Mountain, why don’t the cultivators just tame one or two of them? Why do they have to go to the Beast Hall?”

There were numerous savage beasts in the mountain range and the two of them had already met with several waves in the past three days. It was fortunate that Zhang Xuan was a Tongxuan realm pinnacle expert, allowing him to defeat them easily.

Since there were so many savage beasts in the mountains, the cultivators could just tame one or two for their own usage. Why did they have to go through the trouble of heading to the Beast Hall?

“I thought the same as well. Putting aside how the wild nature of the savage beasts make it hard to tame them, we haven’t met a single aerial savage beast that could transport a human throughout our journey!” Shen Bi Ru chuckled lightly.

Zhang Xuan hesitated for a moment before nodding his head.

For an aerial savage beast to transport a human, it had to be significantly larger than a human. Although they had met with numerous savage beasts in the past three days of their journey, they were mostly land-bound. As for the aerial savage beasts they chanced by, all of them were small in stature.

“Putting aside how rare these aerial savage beasts are, they are capable of escaping into the air if they find themselves at a disadvantage. As such, it isn’t easy to catch hold of them! Of course, this isn’t the most important factor. If you use strength to force it to submit, it is possible for it to feign obedience and sabotage you while you are riding it in the air. If so, aren’t you putting yourself at risk?” Shen Bi Ru explained.

“This…”

Zhang Xuan cowered.

If an aerial savage beast pretended to submit to a human and allow the person to ride it, it could simply flip in midair and the person would be a goner.

“The reason why beast tamers are respected and why the occupation ranks among the top of the Upper Nine Paths is because they can ensure guaranteed obedience from a savage beast, preventing such a situation from occurring. Otherwise, if a savage beast reneged on its words, it could prove dangerous.”

Even a Zongshi realm expert would be doomed if it fell from a high altitude.

As a result, if one didn’t possess the handling of a beast tamer, it was best for one to avoid taming an aerial savage beast. Even if one were to successfully tame one, if it intended to harm said person, that person would be doomed.

“Just like master teachers, there are different tiers to a beast tamer. The higher the rank of a beast tamer, the stronger the savage beasts they can tame. Also, before becoming an official beast tamer, one has to be an apprentice beast tamer first.” Shen Bi Ru explained, seeing Zhang Xuan’s lack of knowledge in the field.

“Actually, Han Qiong is an apprentice beast tamer, that’s why she has some connections with the Beast Hall. The last time I came here was actually with her.”

“Mhm!” Zhang Xuan replied.

There wasn’t much information on the Beast Hall in the kingdom’s Book Collection Vault, but general knowledge was still in there.

Actually, an apprentice beast tamer was similar to an apprentice apothecary in the sense that the latter had to study the medicinal properties of various herbs whereas the former had to study the various types of savage beasts that existed in the world, their offensive abilities, habits….

Only after obtaining an in-depth knowledge about the savage beasts would one have an opportunity to tame one.

Otherwise, one might just die from underestimating the strength of a savage beast, let alone taming it.

Most of the aggressive savage beasts tended to view humans with hostility.

“Let’s hurry. We’re just a day’s journey away from the Beast Hall!”

After exchanging a few lines, Shen Bi Ru giggled and the two proceeded onward. Before they could walk far, they heard the rustling of bushes in front of them.

Taking a closer look, it was a group of humans.

There were roughly seven or eight people squatted in a circle, seemingly discussing something. Most of them were Pixue realm, and only a twenty-seven-year-old or so young man was at Dingli realm pinnacle.

Despite being the weakest of the group, he seemed to be their leader. Every single movement of his felt grand.

“Who’s there?”

Since Zhang Xuan and Shen Bi Ru didn’t try to hide their presence at all, the other party also noticed them as well. Bellowing, they immediately drew their weapons.

Now that they were close to the Beast Hall, it wasn’t surprising for them to meet other travelers. As a result, Shen Bi Ru didn’t panic. Stepping forward, she said, “We came from Tianxuan Kingdom and we’re on our way to the Beast Hall. We just happened to pass by this area.”

“You two are going to the Beast Hall?”

Upon seeing the beautiful Shen Bi Ru, the young man’s eyes immediately lit up.

Given Shen Bi Ru’s reputation as the number one beauty of Hongtian Academy, her looks were nothing to complain about. Even though spending the past three days in the wild had made her look slightly unkempt, her beauty still shone through.

“We are also going to return to the Beast Hall soon after dealing with a problem. As long as you don’t bother us, we can bring you two along with us!”

The young man extended his invitation.

“There’s no need for that. We can head there by ourselves!”

Shen Bi Ru shook her head and proceeded forward along with Zhang Xuan.

“Hold it right there! You two can’t walk through here!”

They had barely walked two steps forward when the others bellowed in unison at them. Hualala, the clanging of weapons being drawn resounded in the air.

Chapter 236: Formations

“We can’t walk through here? Does the road belong to you?” Shen Bi Ru’s face darkened.

Zhang Xuan also turned to look at them.

Due to his pure zhenqi, even Liu shi was unable to see through his cultivation if he intentionally hid it. Naturally, these people couldn’t see through his cultivation either.

Having reached Tongxuan realm pinnacle, as long as his opponent wasn’t a Zongshi realm expert, there was no need for him to fear anyone at all. If these people intended to pick a fight with him, he didn’t mind teaching them a lesson.

However, before he could say anything, the young man had already interjected.

“What are you all doing? Sheathe your weapons! Not everything can be solved through force!”

“Yes!” Upon hearing his words, the others hurriedly sheathed their weapons.

“Please don’t be alarmed, we don’t have any evil intentions! To be honest, I am the seventh prince of Hanwu Kingdom, Yun Tao, and I am currently in the midst of my 1-star beast tamer examination. I have already passed the first trial. As long as I can tame a Pixue realm savage beast, I will pass the examination!”

Stepping forward, the young man smiled kindly.

“The reason why my men stopped you two is because the [Gold Alloyed Panther] I intend to tame is right ahead. That savage beast possesses incredible speed. We’ve tracked it for ten days already, so we intend to set a trap for it here. If you walk through now, you might alarm it. If so, our previous efforts would be in vain. So please, I hope you understand! If you two feel offended by our actions, I will be sure to compensate you both after capturing this Gold Alloyed Panther!”

“Then… we’ll wait for a while!”

Seeing the other party speaking politely to them, Shen Bi Ru glanced at Zhang Xuan, and upon seeing him nod his head, Shen Bi Ru agreed to the other party’s request.

If others were willing to speak politely, Zhang Xuan was willing to listen to their request.

Since the person explained the situation to them earnestly, Zhang Xuan didn’t mind the slight inconvenience.

In any case, he and Shen Bi Ru were exhausted after walking for an entire day, so it wouldn’t hurt to rest. At the same time, he could gather some information on the Beast Hall.

“Thank you for understanding!”

Upon seeing them relent, Yun Tao nodded his head in satisfaction. After instructing for the others to continue setting the trap, he walked over to Shen Bi Ru.

“May I know how to address the two of you?”

“I am Shen Bi Ru, this is Zhang Xuan!” Shen laoshi replied.

“Oh, so it’s Shen xiaojie. Pleased to meet you!” Yun Tao nodded his head, neglecting Zhang Xuan from the very start.

It wasn’t surprising that he would disregard Zhang Xuan. After cultivating the Heaven’s Path Golden Body, Zhang Xuan’s skin had become smooth, giving him the appearance of a seventeen-year-old teenager. Furthermore, his clothes were shabby. No matter how Yun Tao looked at him, he seemed like a mere lackey.

“May I know what affairs xiaojie has at the Beast Hall? If nothing goes wrong, I should be able to pass the beast tamer examination. If so, I will gain considerable say within the Beast Hall!” Yun Tao spoke with a confident smile.

“I appreciate Your Highness’s goodwill, but we only intend to rent an aerial savage beast, so we probably won’t need your help.” Shen Bi Ru rejected his offer politely.

As the icy goddess of Hongtian Academy, she was familiar with such pickup methods. As a result, she immediately blocked his advances.

“Regardless, fate has brought us together, so there’s no need for Shen xiaojie to be so courteous with me. Without the help of a beast tamer, it will be difficult to pick out a good aerial savage beast and it could prove dangerous. How about this: after I capture the Gold Alloyed Panther and go back to the Beast Hall, I’ll help you pick out a good one!” Yun Tao said.

“No, thanks!” Shen Bi Ru turned down his offer.

“Even though the aerial savage beasts loaned by the Beast Hall are all tamed and it is unlikely for there any problems to occur, different savage beasts have different endurance levels and reaction speeds. If you don’t choose a good one and meet with the attacks of other savage beasts in midair, it is possible for mishaps to happen. Shen xiaojie, there is no need for stand on ceremony with me!”

Lightly flinging his sleeves backward, Yun Tao exuded a dashing aura. His words were filled with concern and sincerity.

Regardless of whether it was her disposition or appearance, the lady before him was the most beautiful he had ever seen. He wanted to display his superiority to move the heart of the beauty.

“This…” She intended to reject him, but upon recalling that Zhang laoshi would be riding on the savage beast, Shen Bi Ru eventually relented and nodded her head. “I’ll be troubling you then!”

“It’s no trouble. I’ve been learning for twelve years now and I am well-acquainted with all of the savage beasts in the Beast Hall, be it their habits, endurance, age, reaction speed…. I have mastered them all. Rest easy, there won’t be any problems whatsoever! If not for our fated meeting here, I wouldn’t help anyone else even if they paid me a huge sum of money….”

Upon seeing her agree, Yun Tao’s eyes lit up. “A while ago, a powerful official from your Tianxuan Kingdom tried to recruit me for my services, but I rejected his request….”

Seeing that this guy intended to show off to display his strengths and capabilities, Zhang Xuan could no longer hold back. Shaking his head helplessly, he walked over to the other people.

The trap they spoke of wasn’t just digging a pit and covering it with straw and leaves.

This kind of elementary level trap might work on wild animals, but savage beasts possessed intelligence. Not only would one be unable to capture a savage beast through such means, the savage beast might even feel offended and come and assault the trapper.

The Pixue realm cultivators who had come along with Yun Tao held several dark grey flags in their hands. After measuring the coordinates properly, they staked them into the ground.

‘Is this… a formation?’ Upon seeing their actions, a thought popped into Zhang Xuan’s head.

Formation master was also one of the top occupations among the Upper Nine Paths, and their standing wasn’t inferior to the apothecary job in the least. It was one of the more popular occupations.

Even though there were some records on formations in the kingdom’s Book Collection Vault, the information on them was terse. They only spoke of the fundamentals. As for how one could set up a formation and how one activated it… there wasn’t any information at all.

After all, Tianxuan Kingdom was just a remote country on the sidelines. It didn’t even have a Formation Master Guild. As such, the information accessible to it was limited.

Even though the information detailed in the books was limited, the movements of these people were aligned with the concept of formations described in those books. As a result, Zhang Xuan was able to recognize it instantly.

According to the descriptions, once a formation was successfully laid out, a unique force field would be generated. Once triggered, it would display all kinds of unique effects.

A confinement formation would trap a person, making the target lose their sense of direction and wander aimlessly within it. A hypnotizing formation would induce illusions, leaving one’s mental state in disarray. A kill formation would destroy a person immediately with its fearsome strength.

This was the first time Zhang Xuan had seen someone set up a formation. He was full of curiosity.

“Just these few flags can trap that Gold Alloyed Panther he spoke of?”

Staring at their actions, Zhang Xuan soon realized that he was unable to comprehend anything about that formation at all and shook his head helplessly.

Just like pill forging and painting, setting up a formation was an advanced skill requiring in-depth knowledge. Putting aside perceiving the effects of the formation, Zhang Xuan didn’t even know what purpose those flags served.

“Zhang laoshi, what’s wrong?”

Suddenly, Shen Bi Ru’s voice echoed behind him. As he turned around, he saw Shen Bi Ru right behind him. She seemed to be unable to stand the other party’s narcissistic talk and came over to escape.

“I’m just curious what kind of trap they are setting up!” Zhang Xuan replied.

“It seems to be a formation. There isn’t a Formation Master Guild in Tianxuan Kingdom, and as such, we don’t have many books on formations. As a result, I don’t know too much about formations either.” Shen Bi Ru also recognized it immediately.

“Indeed. For a few flags to create a powerful formation with mystical effects, it is indeed incredible!” Zhang Xuan commented.

“None of the occupations ranked among the Upper Nine Paths are simple. It is said that even a Half-Zongshi would find it difficult to escape from a formation set up by an official formation master. In fact, if they are unlucky, they might even be killed by it. Even though those guys seem to be placing the flags at random, there must be a certain logic to it!” Shen Bi Ru nodded her head.

“Yeah! I’m just checking it out!” Zhang Xuan smiled.

The topic of formations was a profound one, and without years of effort, it was impossible for one to bear any results. Since Zhang Xuan was unable to comprehend anything about it, he simply regarded it as a novelty.

“Checking it out?” Yun Tao walked over. With his head lifted high, he glanced askance at Zhang Xuan and chuckled softly, “The study of formations is profound and deep. Are you sure you can comprehend it?”

“I am an outsider who has never studied the topic, so I don’t know too much about it!” Zhang Xuan admitted. Curious, he asked, “Based on your tone, Your Highness seems to be well-versed in formations?”

“Of course!”

The edges of Yun Tao’s lips curled up and a proud expression appeared on his face. “Actually, I also study formations during my spare time and I am an apprentice formation master, so I have quite a bit of knowledge about formations.”

“Apprentice formation master?”

Zhang Xuan and Shen Bi Ru stared at one another in shock.

For him to be both an apprentice beast tamer and an apprentice formation master, especially when the two occupations were of the Upper Nine Paths, Yun Tao indeed possessed the right to brag about his achievements.

“Since you don’t understand, allow me to introduce it to you two!”

Seeing the shock of the pair’s face, Yun Tao was delighted. With a smile, he raised his head proudly and explained, “The formation they are setting up is called [Green Wood Confinement Formation]. The core of the formation is based on the 36 Heavenly Spirits whereas the flags used in the formation are placed based on the 72 Earthly Fiends. Containing the element of wood, it gathers eight different attributes of spiritual energy…. Through such, the force field of the formation is formed, and once activated, it unleashes great power.”

“Green Wood Confinement Formation? Just by using these small flags?”

“Indeed! These flags are just supporting equipment. Although setting up the formation is important and the coordinates of the flags must be precise, the activation of the formation is important as well. After they’re done, I will activate it. If I succeed, even though the Gold Alloyed Panther’s life won’t be at risk if it were to step into the formation, it can’t escape!”

While they were conversing, the others finished setting up the formations.

Chuckling lightly, Yun Tao stepped forward, took out a golden flag, shook it lightly, and placed it into the center of the formation.

Weng!

With a light ring, the formation seemed to have been activated. All of the formation flags seemed to have disappeared amid the greenery, making it hard to spot.

If not for Zhang Xuan witnessing the setting up of the formation personally, it would have been hard for him to believe there was a formation here.

“Incredible…”

Impressed, Zhang Xuan was about to say something when his mind jolted and a book appeared in the library.

Turning his attention to the book, the words “Green Wood Confinement Formation” were written on it.

Flipping through it, the flaws of the formation were detailed within.

“Green Wood Confinement Formation: a wood element formation. The formation flags are made from the spotted laurel plant, and the formation contains the ability of confining and restricting the target’s movements. It was created three hundred years ago by 2-star Formation Master Tao Yuan. Flaws: 17 aspects. No. 1…”

“The formation activated here is a simplified version with a total of 72 flaws. No. 1…”

After reading through the book, Zhang Xuan was taken aback. He stared at the gleeful and proud prince with a strange expression.

“Are you sure that… this formation can confine the Gold Alloyed Panther?”

Chapter 237: Play Somewhere Else!

“Of course! I bought this formation from the Formation Master Guild at a high price. Even a Tongxuan realm primary stage expert would be trapped in it, let alone a Pixue realm savage beast!”

Yun Tao gestured grandly as he turned to look at Zhang Xuan. “Why? Do you doubt the ability of this Green Wood Confinement Formation?”

“That isn’t it!” Zhang Xuan shook his head. “I just think that there’s something wrong with the setup of this formation, and it might be unable to display its full strength—”

“Arrogant! Do you even know what a formation is?”

“Where did this bumpkin come from, trying to doubt the formation His Highness has set up?”

“Know your place….”

Before Zhang Xuan could finish speaking, angry bellowing interrupted him.

They came from Yun Tao’s subordinates.

They had heard the conversation between that boy and their prince. This fellow, who didn’t even know what a formation was, said that something was amiss about the setup of the formation….

How can you be so thick-skinned?

Do you know how the formation functions? Do you know how strong it’ll be after it’s activated?

Doubting His Highness’s capability despite knowing nothing at all? He sure is arrogant!

“Cough cough, Zhang laoshi. We shouldn’t interfere in their affairs….”

Hearing the criticism from the group, Shen Bi Ru’s face reddened.

She was rendered completely speechless by Zhang laoshi.

Wasn’t saying that there was something wrong with the setup of the formation equivalent to mocking Prince Yun Tao?

Even though this fellow was narcissistic, he possessed true ability. Since they were ignorant about formations, it was best for them to not get involved in this affair. It wasn’t a wise decision to offend a soon-to-be beast tamer before reaching the Beast Hall.

Seeing the indignation in everyone’s eyes, Zhang Xuan shook his head helplessly.

Since his kind words fell on deaf ears, Zhang Xuan decided to stay out of the matter.

“The study of formations is as deep and vast as the ocean. Since you are ignorant, you shouldn’t speak of it lightly. You’re lucky that I am magnanimous, otherwise I would teach you a lesson based on the words you just said. Even beating you to death would be considered a light penalty!”

Yun Tao glared at Zhang Xuan and harrumphed. Then he pointed to the formation and continued confidently, “This Green Wood Confinement Formation, when complemented with trees, will have its effects amplified. Given the bushes and trees around, this is a suitable location for the setup of this formation. Later, I will show you how impressive the formation is by capturing the Gold Alloyed Panther!”

“Sure!”

Seeing through the other party’s desire to impress Shen Bi Ru, Zhang Xuan didn’t linger on the topic and stood to the side.

Only then did Yun Tao nod his head in satisfaction. Just when he was about to continue bragging about the capability of the formation, a roar echoed from the front.

Then a massive figure charged out.

The Gold Alloyed Panther!

This Pixue realm savage beast was around four meters long. Its golden body was covered with green spots. Even from several hundred meters out, it exerted strong pressure onto the group.

“It’s here….”

Yun Tao’s eyes lit up. He immediately rushed nervously forward to take a closer look.

The Gold Alloyed Panther strolled around the area leisurely, and upon seeing the group, instinctively retreated and prepared to leave.

“Light it up!” Yun Tao hurriedly commanded his subordinates upon seeing its actions.

It took them ten days of effort before they were able to track it down. If it escaped, it would be difficult to find it once more.

“Yes!” One subordinate immediately took out a bag and lit it with an ignitable paper roll.

In an instant, a repulsive odor immediately emanated from it. The stench was so strong that it made people feel lightheaded and nauseous.

“This should be the feces of a female Gold Alloyed Panther. Upon burning it, it releases an extremely powerful smell. While it is intolerable to a human, it is irresistible to a male Gold Alloyed Panther.”

Shen Bi Ru seemed to be slightly knowledgeable on the topic of taming savage beasts, as she softly explained the situation to Zhang Xuan.

Feeling faint from the overpowering stench, it was a wonder to Zhang Xuan why that fellow would be attracted to such an odor. Turning to look at the Gold Alloyed Panther, it had stopped in its tracks upon smelling the scent. After hesitating for a moment, it started heading toward the group.

As the fellow slowly approached them, the group gradually felt the pressure from the savage beast grow stronger.

Slowly, its ferocious appearance and streamlined body appeared clearly before them. Even though it was a Pixue realm savage beast, it was probably capable of warding off eight human cultivators of the same realm easily.

This savage beast was born swift, and coupled with its huge physique and fur serving as a defensive layer, it was capable of matching up to a human cultivator beyond its cultivation realm!

In other words, this Gold Alloyed Panther wasn’t incapable of challenging a Tongxuan realm primary stage expert.

“Prepare to trigger the formation!”

Upon seeing the Gold Alloyed Panther being attracted by the scent and walking toward the Green Wood Confinement Formation, Yun Tao clenched his fists in excitement.

As long as he grabbed hold of this fellow and tamed it, he would be able to become an official beast tamer!

With this identity, he could stand out against the other princes. Even if he couldn’t inherit the throne, he would gain considerable standing within the empire.

“Hm?”

But to his astonishment, that fellow suddenly stopped ten meters in front of the formation.

As a Pixue realm savage beast, it possessed intelligence. It could sense Yun Tao and the others were up to no good. If not for the alluring scent, it would have escaped long ago.

“Attack it! Find some way to enrage it!”

As befitting of a potential beast tamer, even though Yun Tao was surprised by its actions, he immediately reacted based on his understanding of savage beasts and gave instructions.

“Yes!”

His subordinates had already been waiting for his commands. Hearing his words, they nodded their heads. Retrieving arrows from the quivers on their backs, they nocked the arrow, drew the bowstring, and shot at the Gold Alloyed Panther.

Whoooosh!

The arrows shot through the air straight toward the Gold Alloyed Panther. Since they were specially crafted arrows imbued with the zhenqi of Pixue realm experts, the Gold Alloyed Panther felt threatened by the arrows and its fur stood on end. It immediately leapt to the side to dodge the arrows.

It might have been huge in stature, but its movements were exceptionally agile. Its speed was almost comparable to Lu Xun’s when he was executing the Illusory Shadows Nine Celestial Steps.

“Keep it up!” Yun Tao shouted.

Hearing his orders, everyone moved swiftly and arrows fell like rain.

“Roar!”

Seeing the increasing number of arrows, the Gold Alloyed Panther roared furiously. Seemingly completely enraged by their actions, he charged straight toward the group.

Weng!

In just a few paces, it stepped into the range of the formation. A light ringing sound echoed and the Green Wood Confinement Formation was activated. As though it had fallen into quicksand or was trapped in a metal cage, the Gold Alloyed Panther struggled but was unable to break out of the formation.

“So this is a formation! Incredible!”

Shen Bi Ru was impressed.

She had seen the strength of the Gold Alloyed Panther for herself, and she wouldn’t have believed that a formation consisting of just a few flags could trap such a powerful savage beast within if she hadn’t seen it for herself.

If she intruded on the formation unintentionally, she would be in the same plight as well.

“Looks like I have to be careful of formation masters in the future!” she reminded herself warily.

The reason why formation masters were highly respected was because they possessed the ability to defeat enemies beyond their cultivation realm.

As long as they were given sufficient time to set up a formation, they were able to slaughter an opponent whose strength far surpassed theirs.

“Let’s see where you can escape to!”

Oblivious to the dread in Shen Bi Ru’s heart, Yun Tao chuckled and glanced at Zhang Xuan gleefully.

Didn’t you say that something was wrong with the formation?

Look, wasn’t the Gold Alloyed Panther trapped in an instant?

With his hands behind his back, Yun Tao turned to look at his subordinates and ordered, “There’s no need to hurry. We should let this fellow thrash about for a bit longer so that it expends its strength!”

“Yes!”

Everyone nodded their heads in agreement as they scattered around the perimeter of the formation.

“Roar!”

While they were waiting for the Gold Alloyed Panther to expend all its stamina and tame it in a single go, a furious roar echoed and the latter charged frenziedly at the formation.

Huala!

The formation shook and the formation flags which had been concealed from view suddenly appeared.

“Your Highness, what do we do….”

Upon seeing the formation flags coming into view, a Pixue realm expert immediately turned to look at Yun Tao anxiously.

“What are you panicking for? Rest easy! The Green Wood Confinement Formation makes use of the geographical terrain to absorb the surrounding wood elemental energy to augment its defense. The Gold Alloyed Panther doesn’t have enough strength to break out….”

Yun Tao smiled confidently as he gestured grandly. Just as he was about to continue bragging about the formation, the ground quaked once more. The flags, unable to bear the impact from the charge, flew away.

Hu!

The removal of the formation flags caused the instantaneous collapse of the Green Wood Confinement Formation. With a stride, the furious Gold Alloyed Panther appeared before Yun Tao. Raising its paw, it clawed at him.

“Eh?”

Yun Tao was just bragging about his Green Wood Confinement Formation when this fellow suddenly appeared before him. He yelled in terror and fell paralyzed to the ground.

“You beast!”

“Your Highness, be careful!”

The Pixue realm subordinates immediately rushed over as they drew their weapons. In an instant, numerous swords fell upon the Gold Alloyed Panther.

Roar!

Disregarding those attacks, the Gold Alloyed Panther whipped its tail at one of Yun Tao’s subordinate while smacking another two next to it with its paws.

Pah pah pah!

Yun Tao’s subordinates felt a fearsome force traversing through their body as they fell backwards with reddened faces. At the same moment, they felt a sweet sensation gushing up their throat and blood spewed from their mouths.

Even though the few of them were strong, they were still incapable of combating a frenzied Pixue realm savage beast.

“Flee!”

Seeing that even his subordinates were unable to stand their ground against it, Yun Tao nearly fainted from fear. He immediately bellowed and began to run. However, at this moment, he saw the giant body of the Gold Alloyed Panther rushing toward Zhang Xuan and Shen Bi Ru.

“They’re doomed….”

He froze.

Even his subordinates were unable to match up to the Gold Alloyed Panther, and that beautiful lady was only at Dingli realm pinnacle. That ignorant lad beside her was likely even weaker. Under such circumstances, Yun Tao couldn’t think of any way they could avoid their demise.

Just when he prepared himself for the gruesome sight, that ignorant lad spoke in frustration.

“Are you stupid? They’re the ones who want to catch you, why are you going against me?”

Upon hearing his words, everyone swayed.

Was that lad a fool?

Speaking to the Gold Alloyed Panther like that when it was at the peak of its anger, that brat must be tired of living!

Just when everyone thought that the lad with a screw loose would die for sure, they heard his helpless voice once more.

“If you refuse to leave, I’ll have to make a move…. Forget it, since you aren’t willing to listen to logic, play somewhere else!”

Right after saying those words, a loud slap echoed.

Whiz!

The gigantic body of the Gold Alloyed Panther immediately flew aside. Smashing into a massive tree, white foam leaked from the corners of its mouth as it convulsed.

Chapter 238: Taming [2 In 1]

“What?”

Yun Tao and the others nearly passed out.

What was going on?

This was a Pixue realm Gold Alloyed Panther, it possessed strength rivaling that of a Tongxuan realm primary stage expert. Furthermore, its coat of fur provided it with incredible defense way beyond that of an ordinary cultivator, yet to be sent flying with a single blow and foaming at the mouth….

How strong was that attack?

They swiftly turned their gaze toward that ignorant brat, only to see him walking with a vexed expression toward the Gold Alloyed Panther. Squatting beside it, he stared at it with an expression of lament.

“I told you that the ones who wanted to capture you are them, and that you shouldn’t go for me….”

Pu!

Hearing those words, the bodies of Yun Tao and the others convulsed.

The heck!

Do you have to go so far?

No matter what, since fate has allowed us to meet, we should at least get along with one another. What do you mean by those words?

Why are you persuading the savage beast to go for us?

Roar!

Hearing the other party’s words, the Gold Alloyed Panther howled in anger. Struggling upright, it roared and sent its paw straight at the fellow nagging at it.

“In the end, you’re just a savage beast. I’ve been wasting my breath trying to explain the situation to you….”

Under the anxious gazes of the group, Zhang Xuan disregarded the claws of the other party and continued nagging. Just when the claws were about to fall on his head, he lifted his palm.

As though time had stopped, the claws capable of even smashing through metal stopped in midair.

Hu!

Then, with a slight raise of the hand, the four-meter-long Gold Alloyed Panther weighing several tons was raised before being thrown to the ground. Then it was raised again before being thrown down once more.

Bang bang bang bang!

A large crater immediately appeared on the ground.

Yun Tao and the others trembled in fear. At this moment, they felt as though they were going insane.

This was a Gold Alloyed Panther, one of the most ferocious savage beasts in the forest. Possessing great might, it was usually the predator. Yet, at this moment, it was being grabbed by its paw and whipped around?

What kind of strength did that youngster possess?

“He… is probably at least at Tongxuan realm pinnacle. He might even be a… Half-Zongshi!” a subordinate of Yun Tao muttered through quivering lips.

“Half-Zongshi? I just mocked a Half-Zongshi? And I said that if I were to teach him a lesson, beating him to death would be considered as a light penalty….”

Yun Tao felt he was about to spit out blood.

Does everything has to be so shitty?

If you’re a Half-Zongshi, you should’ve said so earlier. No matter how audacious I may be, I would never have offended you….

“Look here! The ones who want to capture you are them, not me!”

After smashing him around for a few times and seeing that the Gold Alloyed Panther was on the verge of passing out, Zhang Xuan stopped.

While others were stunned by the sight before them, Zhang Xuan was feeling dismal. He was just an innocent passerby who kindly said that the formation might not be able to trap the savage beast. It was one thing for the others to doubt him, but they had to insult him, making it seem as though he was just a kid trying to brag despite his ignorance.

As a result, he decided to stay out of the affair and allowed the others to do as they pleased. Yet… this fellow came rushing straight at him.

The one undertaking the beast tamer examination was Yun Tao, and the one who set up the formation was him as well. Instead of looking for the mastermind, why did you look for me?

As expected of a savage beast, dumb!

“Let’s go!”

Seeing that the Gold Alloyed Panther was on the verge of breathing its last, Zhang Xuan shook his head and turned to Shen Bi Ru.

“OK!”

Shen laoshi walked toward him.

She already knew that Zhang Xuan’s cultivation was at Tongxuan realm pinnacle and that the Gold Alloyed Panther wouldn’t be a match for him. So she wasn’t surprised by the turn of events.

“You two…”

Upon seeing the two leaving, Yun Tao started walking over to stop them. But at this moment, the Gold Alloyed Panther struggled to its feet, walked forward to block Zhang Xuan’s path, and lay on the floor prostrating to him. Anticipation gleamed in its eyes.

“This is… Voluntary Submission? The Gold Alloyed Panther is submitting to him?”

As an apprentice beast tamer, Yun Tao was well-versed about the habits of savage beasts.

The Gold Alloyed Panther was clearly in awe of Zhang Xuan’s incredible strength and intended to submit to him.

Yun Tao had tracked this savage beast for several days to accomplish his beast tamer examination, and it took a combination of luck and effort before he was able to encounter it. Yet it was submitting to someone else?

Yun Tao experienced depression in the pit of his stomach and nearly spewed blood.

However, there was no way around it anymore. The moment a savage beast decided to submit to someone, it meant that fear had already sprouted in the depths of its heart toward its master, and it wouldn’t dare to go against him. Even if Yun Tao were to use all of his means at this moment, he would be unable to change the decision of the savage beast.

A savage beast only recognized a single master in its entire life. Since it was taking the initiative to prostrate itself, it showed its intent to submit to Zhang Xuan. It was too late for Yun Tao to do anything.

“It’s mine…”

Tears streamed down Yun Tao’s face and he felt despondent. Even so, he was too afraid to say anything.

Yun Tao thought that the other party would be delighted to see the savage beast submitting to him, but the youngster only frowned. “Are you done? If so, scram. Otherwise, I will beat you up again!”

“Wuuuu!”

The Gold Alloyed Panther lowered his head and whimpered.

“Why? You aren’t content and wish to get back at me?” Zhang Xuan lifted his leg and prepared to kick it.

“Cough cough, Elder Zhang Xuan…”

Seeing that the other party didn’t seem to understand the meaning by the Gold Alloyed Panther’s gesture, Yun Tao immediately stepped forward.

Yun Tao had only disregarded Zhang Xuan previously because he thought that he was Shen Bi Ru’s lackey, but upon realizing that he was likely to be a Half-Zongshi expert, he didn’t dare to be disrespectful to him in any way.

“Elder?”

Zhang Xuan was stunned for a moment as he didn’t expect this braggart to address him like this. However, after pondering for a moment, he felt that it wasn’t completely unexpected.

“This Gold Alloyed Panther has chosen to submit to you. If you’re willing to take it in, pet its head, and feed it with a drop of your blood, it will be loyal to you for the rest of its life…. If you decide to turn it down, you can just turn around and leave!” Yun Tao said.

He could tell that even though this fellow was powerful, he knew nothing about beast taming at all.

Otherwise, how could he not even know the submission positions of savage beasts?

“Chosen to submit to me?” Zhang Xuan was taken aback.

Why did it suddenly submit to me when all I’ve done was to beat it up?

Looks like beast tamer isn’t as hard of an occupation as I think it to be…

If Yun Tao could hear his thoughts, he would definitely spurt blood.

There were many methods to induce a savage beast to submit to a person, such as gratitude, enticement, overwhelming force….

Of which, overwhelming it meant defeating the other party in a battle of strength, rendering it into a completely helpless position.

The Gold Alloyed Panther possessed invincible defense and incredible speed, and with just these two, it was able to give an ordinary Tongxuan realm expert a splitting headache. However, to Zhang Xuan, who cultivated the Heaven’s Path Movement Art and Heaven’s Path Golden Body, its defensive ability and agility meant nothing at all.

Regardless of which it was, the Gold Alloyed Panther realized that it wasn’t a match for this human. Thus, it willingly submitted to Zhang Xuan.

Even though it was simple in theory, it wasn’t easy in practice.

Putting everything aside, there were no one beneath Zongshi realm who could triumph against Zhang Xuan in terms of physical ability. Even if there truly were one capable of rivaling Zhang Xuan, there was no reason for him to tame a weak Pixue realm Gold Alloyed Panther.

Zhang Xuan only thought that it was simple because he didn’t understand the true underlying difficulty in the matter.

“Wuuuuu!” The Gold Alloyed Panther gazed at Zhang Xuan in anticipation.

Seeing its expectant eyes, Zhang Xuan hesitated for a moment before asking, “Can you fly?”

The Gold Alloyed Panther staggered and nearly fell to the ground.

It was a savage beast that dominated the land, how could it possibly fly?

“If you can’t fly, I don’t have any use for you….” Zhang Xuan frowned.

His destination was Tianwu Kingdom, tens of thousands of kilometers from here. No matter how swift this fellow could run, it was impossible for him to reach Tianwu Kingdom without taking a month or two. It would be much faster riding on an aerial savage beast instead.

Besides, it didn’t have enough strength to contribute to Zhang Xuan’s fighting prowess.

In other words… to Zhang Xuan, it didn’t matter to him whether he tamed it or not.

Upon seeing his hesitant expression, Yun Tao and his subordinates felt frenzied.

Brother, do you need to be so twisted?

To capture this savage beast, putting aside the dozen or so days we spent tracking it down, just the preparation phase took more than two months by itself. In the end, it ignored us and submitted to you instead. Yet, you are unwilling to accept it….

Why is there such a huge disparity between us even though we are both humans?

“Forget it, since you wish to submit to me, I don’t mind taking you in!”

After a moment of hesitation, Zhang Xuan nodded in agreement.

In any case, taking it in shouldn’t pose as any problems. Besides, having a Pixue realm savage beast also seemed impressive.

Doing as Yun Tao said, he stretched his hand to pet the Gold Alloyed Panther’s head and dripped a drop of blood into its mouth.

The moment the blood drop entered the beast’s body, a ritual seemed to have been triggered. A bridge seemed be formed between his mental state with the other party. As its master, he could sense that if he were to give the order, the Gold Alloyed Panther would be willing to die for him.

Furthermore, through this bridge, he could clearly sense the Gold Alloyed Panther’s will to serve him. He could also easily give orders to it through this connection.

It was no wonder that beast tamer was such a fearsome occupation. Just its ability to control savage beasts to fight alongside it was already a fearsome feat.

“Since you have submitted to me, you should serve as my mount. I’ll be depending on you for the journey to the Beast Hall!” Zhang Xuan said.

However, the Gold Alloyed Panther looked at him pitifully. It struggled to its feet, only for its legs to collapse to the ground. No matter how much effort it put into its feet, it was unable to stand up.

Zhang Xuan had gone too far with his attacks previously, causing it to sustain severe injuries. As such, it was difficult for it to even stand up, much less serving as a mount.

“Elder Zhang Xuan, the Gold Alloyed Panther has sustained severe injuries. It has to recuperate for at least half a month before it is able to move around freely!” Yun Tao glanced at the Gold Alloyed Panther before speaking.

“Recuperate for half a month?”

Zhang Xuan frowned.

The reason he was heading over to the Beast Hall to rent an aerial savage beast was because he was pressed for time. After all, he didn’t know when the poison aura would act up. His life was threatened as long as the poison aura remained within him.

It would be a great waste if he spent half a month here just for the sake of a savage beast he had no use for.

“You’re an apprentice beast tamer. Do you have any ways to heal its injuries swiftly?”

Zhang Xuan turned to look at Yun Tao.

A human cultivator could hasten his recovery through consuming pills or circulating his zhenqi.

Savage beasts should possess similar abilities as well.

He didn’t understand such things, but Yun Tao, as a potential beast tamer, should know of them.

“The physical constitution of a savage beast differs from that of a human’s. However, the methods to hasten their recovery are similar. The first method is to use suitable herbs to forge a pill for the savage beast to consume. If the right pill is used, the savage beast should be able to make a complete recovery within two days!” Yun Tao pondered for a moment before saying.

“Two days?” Thinking that two days was also too long, Zhang Xuan shook his head. “What about the other methods?”

“That is the method for apothecaries, as well as the one most people resort to. The second method is a treatment method unique to beast tamers. Only an official beast tamer is capable of utilizing this method, and it is only useful for one’s own tamed beast….”

Yun Tao glanced at Zhang Xuan.

Beast tamers had a unique method to treating their own tamed beast. This method required both the beast tamer and his tamed beast to practice a unique skill to boost their compatibility with one another. It would take at least half a year before the couple could utilize this method. Given how this fellow knew nothing about beast taming and his tamed beast had just submitted to him, it was impossible for him to utilize this method.

“The third method is for master teachers! Given how powerful this Gold Alloyed Panther is, it is likely to be at Pixue realm pinnacle. As long as you help it to reach Tongxuan realm, its injuries should recover in an instant.”

After speaking of the second method, Yun Tao hesitated for a moment before proceeding ahead to talk of the third one.

There were only these three methods to swiftly heal a savage beast’s injuries.

And each of them corresponded to the means of an apothecary, beast tamer, and master teacher respectively.

Any single one of those methods would be effective, but from the looks of it, it was impossible to utilize any single one of them now.

“Helping it reach Tongxuan realm would heal its injuries in an instant?” Zhang Xuan’s eyes lit up.

For the first method, putting aside the fact he had no herbs now, Zhang Xuan thought that two days were too long a time to wait.

For the second method, given how Zhang Xuan knew nothing about beast taming at all, it was completely out of question.

As for the third method, given that Zhang Xuan possessed the Library of Heaven’s Path, it was a simple feat for him to help someone achieve a breakthrough, be it human or beast.

Taking the Sky Shattering Lion for example, he had solved its trauma and raised its cultivation by a level to Tongxuan realm.

With the pleading of his grandson, Elder Shang intentionally cooked up a show to agonize Zhang Xuan, so he deserved to have his teaching license revoked. However, in order to resolve the mistakes of his previous self, Zhang Xuan had unintentionally pinned the blame of “intentional oppression of the other teachers” onto him, causing his reputation to fall into the gutter.

To make up for it, before his departure, he specially paid the Sky Shattering Lion a visit to solve its trauma.

With a Tongxuan realm savage beast guarding him, even though Elder Shang was stripped of his teaching license, he should be able to rise up once more.

In a way, this was Zhang Xuan’s apology to him.

With this prior experience, Zhang Xuan knew that this method, which seemed to the others that it would be the most difficult of the three, was actually the easiest one for him.

So he turned to look at the Gold Alloyed Panther expectantly.

“Gold Alloyed Panther, try executing a battle technique… Cough cough, I mean, attack me!”

Back when that fellow attacked him, Zhang Xuan didn’t try to peer into its flaws, and as a result, there wasn’t a book compiled on it. To help it achieve a breakthrough, he had to understand its physical condition first.

“…”

Shen Bi Ru, Yun Tao, and the others stared at each other, dumbfounded.

What was this fellow trying to do?

Yun Tao already spoke of the three methods, yet, instead of choosing to go with any one of them, he asked the Gold Alloyed Panther to attack him….

Did he have a screw loose?

That fellow can’t even stand up, yet you want it to attack you? Could it be that you hope to beat it up once more?

“Roar?”

The Gold Alloyed Panther was also stunned.

“Hurry up!”

Sensing its hesitation, Zhang Xuan urged it.

If that fellow didn’t launch an attack, a book wouldn’t be compiled. If so, Zhang Xuan wouldn’t know what was wrong with it and he wouldn’t be able to help it achieve a breakthrough.

“Roar!”

The Gold Alloyed Panther lowered its head.

Putting aside how it didn’t dare to attack its owner, it didn’t have the strength to do so either!

He couldn’t even stand up straight, how could he attack?

“When I told you to stop just now, you continued charging at me. Now that I’m telling you to attack me, you hesitate!”

Seeing how that fellow was behaving as docile as a small kitten, Zhang Xuan was speechless.

When I told you go for Yun Tao instead, you kept charging toward me. Now, you’re acting like this….

In the end, you’re still a savage beast. Seems like it’s impossible to reason with you.

Forget it, I’ll do it myself then!

Shaking his head, Zhang Xuan walked up to the Gold Alloyed Panther and smiled compassionately. “You don’t have to be anxious. Lift your head….”

The Gold Alloyed Panther raised its giant head up.

The others also turned their attention to them, curious to see what he was up to.

“Yep, right, just like that….”

Upon seeing the savage beast obediently lift its head, Zhang Xuan stretched his hands and pah! He struck the back of its neck.

“Roar?”

Not expecting its master to beat it even though it has already submitted to him, the Gold Alloyed Panther roared in resentment. Then its massive body swayed and it collapsed onto the ground, unconscious.

“What?”

The others stared at one another in so much shock that they were about to faint.

This is your tamed beast! Furthermore… I thought that you are going to treat it? Why are you knocking it out?

Ignoring the reaction of the others, Zhang Xuan placed his palm on the beast’s body.

Weng!

A book appeared in the library.

Reading through it swiftly, Zhang Xuan nodded his head in satisfaction. He then turned to Yun Tao and asked, “That… it has fainted. How do I wake it up?”

“…”

Yun Tao and the others felt they were going insane.

When you asked about the methods to heal a savage beast swiftly, we all thought that you are going to treat it. Yet, contrary to our expectations, you struck it unconscious.

Now that everyone is trying to figure out what you’re up to, you want to wake it up….

Brother, can your actions be any more irrational?

What in the world are you up to? We’re utterly stumped by your actions!

“What? You don’t have any ideas?” Zhang Xuan frowned.

“I do, I do!”

Stifling the urge to pull out his hair, Yun Tao hurriedly walked forward.

He was well aware of the habits of the Gold Alloyed Panther. Pressing his finger on an acupoint, the huge fellow soon slowly roused from its rest.

“Roar…”

Upon seeing Zhang Xuan, the eyelids of the conscious Gold Alloyed Panther twitched. It was on the verge of tears.

“There’s no need to look at me like that. Let me ask you, do you want to recover from your injuries instantly? Also, do you wish to reach Tongxuan realm?” Ignoring the resentful expression of the other party, Zhang Xuan said, “If you wish to, let’s get on with it. Otherwise, I’ll leave right now. You can remain as king of the mountain, and we’ll treat it as though you have never submitted to me!”

If this fellow couldn’t recover from his injuries swiftly, it would be of no use to Zhang Xuan. If so, there was no need for Zhang Xuan to waste his time on it.

“Roar!”

Even though it was hesitant, the Gold Alloyed Panther eventually nodded its head.

“It’s good that you’ve agreed!”

Nodding in approval, Zhang Xuan walked over to the Gold Alloyed Panther. Then, he sent a palm strike straight at its massive body.

Pah pah pah pah pah!

The sound echoed thirty-six times consecutively, and every single strike struck the acupoints of the Gold Alloyed Panther accurately. At the same time, pure zhenqi seeped into its body and flow through its meridians.

“This…”

Other people might be confused by Zhang Xuan’s actions, but as a potential beast tamer, Yun Tao could tell what Zhang Xuan was doing with a single sight!

“I thought he didn’t know anything about beast taming at all? How is he able to strike the acupoints on the Gold Alloyed Panther so accurately?”

Jaw dropping, Yun Tao trembled in astonishment.

The physique of a physical beast was completely different from that of a human’s. Naturally, their cultivation methods were different as well. Logically speaking, it was impossible for a person who knew nothing about beast taming to locate the acupoints on the body of a savage beast. In fact, it would be an incredible feat if they could fathom the rough locations of those acupoints in its body.

After the various incidents before, he knew that the person before him was completely ignorant of the art of beast taming. Yet… despite his ignorance, all of his seemingly casual strikes struck the acupoints of the savage beast without the slightest deviation!

What in the world was going on?

Furthermore… what was he hoping to do striking those acupoints?

Could it be that he was really trying to help the beast reach… Tongxuan realm?

Seriously?

That’s something that even an official beast tamer would find hard to achieve.

While he was immersed in shock, Zhang Xuan finished striking all of the acupoints. At this moment, the pure zhenqi he had injected into the body of the Gold Alloyed Panther was flowing unbridled through its widened meridians.

Hu!

Coming to a stop, Zhang Xuan wiped the beads of perspiration off his forehead.

Raising the cultivation of a savage beast was completely different from raising a human’s.

Due to the enormous size of the Gold Alloyed Panther, the zhenqi it required for its breakthrough was multiple times that of a human cultivator. If not for the fact that Zhang Xuan cultivated the Heaven’s Path Divine Art and his zhenqi was pure, Zhang Xuan would probably have been sapped dry of his zhenqi and collapsed onto the floor due to exhaustion before he could raise the other party’s cultivation.

Even so, he expended a huge portion of his zhenqi and was slightly worn out.

Crick! Crack!

A crisp sound similar to that of beans popping echoed from the body of the Gold Alloyed Panther.

Under normal circumstances, the strength of a savage beast was determined by its race and its talents. Unless its bloodline evolved, it was difficult for it to raise its cultivation.

After all, even though they possessed intelligence surpassing that of ordinary animals, they were still inferior to human intellect, and they couldn’t practice cultivation techniques either.

This was precisely the reason why even official beast tamers would find it difficult to raise the cultivation of their tamed beasts.

However… Zhang Xuan was different. The only difference that a high-tier savage beast had was its pure bloodline. The Heaven’s Path zhenqi within Zhang Xuan’s body was capable of washing one’s meridians and cleansing the impurities in one’s bloodline, raising the purity.

As the impurities in the bloodline reduced, the limiter on the savage beast would be released. Naturally, its cultivation realm would be raised as well.

Boom!

The crisp sound didn’t last for long. Soon, the body of the Gold Alloyed Panther inflated like a balloon, and it swiftly grew larger. From its previous length of four meters, it grew to around six or seven meters. At the same time, the aura emanated by the savage beast changed tremendously. It clearly grew stronger and even more fearsome.

Deng deng deng!

The pressure it emitted made Yun Tao and the others rapidly retreat with pale faces.

“This…”

It was clear that the fellow before them had achieved a breakthrough!

With just a few random slaps, the Gold Alloyed Panther reached Tongxuan realm?

Yun Tao felt himself grow lightheaded. The sight before him was simply too incredulous.

After staying in the Beast Hall for a significant period of time, he knew how difficult it was for a savage beast’s bloodline to evolve.

Even a 2-star beast tamer, without years of effort, would be unable to accomplish such a task!

Yet, the fellow before him… was able to achieve this feat in just a few breaths?

What in the world was going on?

Yun Tao wasn’t the only one. Shen Bi Ru’s eyes were also completely widened in shock.

She knew that Zhang laoshi would do something completely unexpected. Even so, the sight before her still made her doubt her vision…. His actions was beyond her expectations.

To induce a breakthrough in the Gold Alloyed Panther so casually….

Even the average master teacher wouldn’t be capable of such a feat!

What in the world did this fellow learn from Yang shi?

Hu!

Amid everyone’s astounded gazes, the Gold Alloyed Panther successfully completed the evolution of its bloodline. At the same time, its strength stabilized at Tongxuan realm primary stage.

Roar!

With its strength raised, the injuries it sustained previously also recovered. Standing up, it roared ferociously, shaking the heavens.

After which, the towering Gold Alloyed Panther walked over to Zhang Xuan and laid down. At this moment, its eyes were filled with admiration and affection, and the resentment it felt previously had vanished completely.

When Zhang Xuan struck it unconsciously previously, it was pondering whether it had chosen the wrong person to follow. But now, it realized that its master was a person of incredible means.

This time, it was submitting to him with utmost sincerity.

“Since you have achieved a breakthrough, let’s set off!”

With a leap, Zhang Xuan sat on the back of Gold Alloyed Panther and gestured for Shen Bi Ru to climb on as well. Then the duo continued heading toward the Beast Hall.

Chapter 239: Strange Bird [2 in 1]

“Elder Zhang Xuan…”

Upon seeing the couple leaving, Yun Tao hurried forward.

“We’re heading for the Beast Hall, so we won’t bother you in your taming of a savage beast. Farewell!” Zhang Xuan waved his hand.

They were strangers, and the reason why Zhang Xuan had waited here previously was for fear of ruining the other party’s situation. Now that the Gold Alloyed Panther had been tamed, there was no longer any need for Zhang Xuan to remain here.

“Taming a savage beast…”

Yun Tao nearly burst into tears.

There was a time limit to the beast tamer examination, and tracking down this Gold Alloyed Panther had nearly used up all of his time. Even if he wanted to tame another savage beast, he had to be able to find one first…. Besides, even if he did find one, given how his formation was ineffective, his survivability was the problem, let alone actually taming the savage beast.

“Senior, may I consult you on a matter?”

Quelling his gloom, Yun Tao clasped his hands.

“Hm?” Zhang Xuan glanced over.

“Just now… how were you able to tell that there was a problem with the setup of my formation, and that it wouldn’t be able to trap the Gold Alloyed Panther?” Yun Tao asked.

He wasn’t the only one who was curious about this. The eyes of the others also fell upon Zhang Xuan, and even Shen Bi Ru’s eyes sparkled with curiosity.

Based on his actions and words, the fellow before him was definitely a complete amateur at formations. Thus, it was inconceivable how he could see a flaw in it immediately.

“That’s simple!” Without hiding anything, Zhang Xuan explained, “The Green Wood Formation is built using formation flags made of the spotted laurel, and requires the wood element to sustain the formation. The location you chose is lush with trees and shrubs, and is aligned with the conditions required for the formation. There also weren’t any errors in your setup. However, you neglected a single detail!”

“Senior, please enlighten me!”

After musing for a while, Yun Tao couldn’t tell what was wrong with his formation. As a result, he asked with earnestness.

“The mountain range we stand upon!” Zhang Xuan lifted his head to look at the various mountains in the distance, his expression carefree.

“Mountain range?”

Yun Tao was even more confused.

What was wrong with this mountain range?

When he bought this Green Wood Formation, he had tried setting it up once and there was no problem at all! Even a Tongxuan realm primary stage expert would find it difficult to overcome this formation.

“The mountain range extends from the north to the south, and is imposing and staunch. The airstream sinks and doesn’t move. The plants that grow on land where soil lacks nutrients have a yellow tint, and the ridges along the mountain range have a slight shade of red…”

Sitting on the back of the Gold Alloyed Panther, Zhang Xuan pointed around to the various signs. “From this, you can tell that there is a metal deposit beneath the mountain! Of the five elements, metal opposes wood. As such, the Confinement Formation has been opposed by the metal element below, so how could it exert its full might?”

“This…”

Yun Tao trembled.

His teacher had once taught him that one shouldn’t just focus on the geographical terrains. More importantly, he should borrow the strength of the environment, the might of the heavens, and even the power from the stars, harboring them within his formations.

Back then, those words sounded ridiculous to him. Yet, at this moment, he realized that… it was all true!

To be able to tell that there was a metal deposit just from the ridges and the direction the mountains extended, and deduce that it affected the Green Wood Confinement Formation… What kind of discernment aptitude was that?

Even a 3-star formation master would be hard-pressed to perform such a feat.

To think that he was bragging in front such a person a moment ago, even asking the other party if he could even understand the formation….

Yun Tao felt a burning sensation on his face.

He wasn’t the only one shocked. Also seated on the Gold Alloyed Panther, Shen Bi Ru’s mouth twitched and she nearly fainted from surprise.

Brother, didn’t you know nothing about formations just a moment ago?

Why were you able to talk about metal deposits, ridges, airstream, and whatever else in the blink of an eye?

Do you have to be so incredible?

She felt that it was laughable how she thought that Zhang Xuan was spouting nonsense a moment ago….

“This guy…”

Recalling her previous experiences, Shen Bi Ru felt helpless.

Common sense truly didn’t apply to this fellow. If she continued to stick fast to common sense, it would just be a matter of time before she was shocked to death.

“I will stop here. If there’s nothing else, I’ll be taking my leave!”

After explaining the faults with the formation, Zhang Xuan waved and left.

“Senior, since there isn’t sufficient time to capture a savage beast now, I would like to return to the Beast Hall along with you. Is that fine by you?”

Since his examination was already a lost cause, he chose to throw it aside altogether and strike up a connection with the expert before him instead.

Regardless of his strength, his previous means to induce a breakthrough in a savage beast, or his understanding of formations, this Elder Zhang Xuan seemed to be a person with great ability. So Yun Tao deemed it beneficial for him to establish a relationship with him.

“The Gold Alloyed Panther is swift. If you can keep up, feel free to do so!”

Even though the prince was a braggart, he was a person with true capabilities. Furthermore, he was an apprentice beast tamer. With his guidance, it should be easier to find a good aerial savage beast, allowing them to reach Tianwu Kingdom faster and smoother.

However, it was already cramped for two people to ride the Gold Alloyed Panther. It would be impossible to house any more people.

“Thank you, senior!” Upon seeing him agree to it, Yun Tao heaved a sigh of relief.

“Let’s go!”

Zhang Xuan instructed the Gold Alloyed Panther, and it started dashing swiftly forward.

Even when it was at Pixue realm, the Gold Alloyed Panther had possessed incredible speed. At this moment, it was no different from a swift steed. Even though the terrain of the mountain forest was rugged and littered with obstacles, there simply weren’t any signs of it slowing down.

Initially, Yun Tao and company could still keep up. However, as time went on, the rate at which their zhenqi was being sapped increased as their faces turned pale. They were so exhausted from running that they were about to spit out blood.

“Let’s rest for a while!”

After around two hours, seeing that the others were completely exhausted, Zhang Xuan and Shen Bi Ru leapt from the back of the Gold Alloyed Panther.

Initially, if the duo proceeded to the Beast Hall by foot, it would take at least an entire day. However, with this fellow, they would reach in at most another two hours, so they were no longer in a rush.

“Senior!”

Knowing that the other party was stopping for their sake, Yun Tao heaved a sigh of relief. After resting for a moment and recovering a slight bit of his stamina, he walked forward and greeted Zhang Xuan respectfully.

“Given that I have tamed the Gold Alloyed Panther, does it mean that you have failed your beast tamer exam?”

Along the way, Zhang Xuan gave the matter some thought. Yun Tao and the others had pursued this Gold Alloyed Panther for several days, only for the prize to land in Zhang Xuan’s lap. While the savage beast wasn’t a huge deal, the beast tamer examination was. With this, Yun Tao would likely fail the examination.

“This…” Yun Tao replied awkwardly, “If not for elder taming the Gold Alloyed Panther, we might all have died on the spot. Compared to our lives, the exam means nothing at all!”

Zhang Xuan nodded his head.

While the fellow might be narcissistic, he was rational.

It was impossible for the Green Wood Confinement Formation to trap the Gold Alloyed Panther. If Zhang Xuan hadn’t been there, given the strength of Yun Tao and his Pixue realm subordinates, they would have died for sure. Even though Zhang Xuan had taken the Gold Alloyed Panther out of their hands, he had also saved their lives.

“What are the tests required for the beast tamer exam?”

After riding on the Gold Alloyed Panther, Zhang Xuan understood the convenience of having a savage beast as a mount. If he could become an official beast tamer, it would be convenient for him to travel long distances in the future.

If Yun Tao could hear his thoughts, he would definitely spew blood.

For the beast tamer examination, he had lived alongside savage beasts for many years in order to study from them. Even so, he had yet to pass the examination. On the other hand, this fellow wanted to take the examination just because he felt that it was tiring to walk on foot….

“First, one has to become an apprentice beast tamer. There are two parts to the apprentice examination: Theoretical Paper and Savage Beast Distinguishing. Only after passing these two will you be qualified to take the beast tamer exam. Similarly, there are also two parts to the beast tamer exam. First, you have to gain the recognition of a savage beast. Second, you have to tame a savage beast,” Yun Tao explained.

“Gain the recognition of a savage beast?”

“Yeah. The examinee will be placed in an enclosure with five savage beasts. Within two hours, the examinee has to gain their approval and stop them from attacking him. If you can’t do so, it only means that you don’t have a good understanding of savage beasts! Also, there’s a requirement for the tamed savage beast. Its cultivation realm has to be higher than the examinee’s.”

Yun Tao explained, “Otherwise, if the savage beast is too weak, one could use brute force to coerce its submission. If so, it would be impossible to determine whether the examinee has the true skills to become a beast tamer.”

Zhang Xuan nodded.

The beast tamer examination was similar to the apothecary examination.

To become an apprentice, one had to possess sufficient theoretical knowledge. And to become an official member, one had to possess practical skills.

For the latter, one had to forge a tier-1 pill. As for the former, one had to tame a stronger savage beast.

It was no wonder why Yun Tao was pursuing this Gold Alloyed Panther. At Dingli realm pinnacle, the latter was an entire cultivation realm higher than him and fulfilled the prerequisites of the examination. Once he succeeded in taming it, he would pass the examination.

“There is a time limit of half a month to the taming of the savage beast. Just looking for this Gold Alloyed Panther has already taken me more than ten days. It is impossible for me to find another one right now. Besides, if I met one that was even fiercer than this Gold Alloyed Panther, I might even lose my life….”

Yun Tao had managed to let it go.

It was all thanks to the youngster before him that he was able to survive this ordeal. He might not be as lucky the next time.

It seemed that he would have to make thorough preparations the next time he took the examination, such that all precautions were in place.

Otherwise, if he died before becoming an official beast tamer, it would be too late for him to cry about it.

In fact, there were numerous apprentices who died at the hands of the savage beasts every year while taking the beast tamer examination.

“It’s good that you are willing to let it go. However… no matter what, I feel partly responsible for it. How about this: if you wish to tame another savage beast, I can give you a helping hand!” Zhang Xuan said.

More importantly, he was interested in seeing how someone could tame a savage beast that was stronger than the tamer.

After the affair with the Gold Alloyed Panther, Zhang Xuan knew that it would be difficult to build camaraderie with a savage beast if it didn’t admit defeat willingly, let alone taming it.

Even if not used for taking the beast tamer examination, the art of beast taming would prove useful in his future journeys.

After all, he couldn’t possibly be so lucky as to happen to meet a savage beast weaker than him and that submitted easily.

What if he encountered a strong one?

Therefore, he wished to make use of this opportunity to see how this fellow would go about it in order to steal his skills.

Of course, he wouldn’t say these words out loud. Otherwise, wouldn’t the image of a “senior” he had built with great difficulty crumble in an instant?

Having disguised himself as Yang shi, he understood that the identity of a “senior” would make it easy to resolve many issues.

However, it carried risks as well. Once exposed, he would likely be pummeled to death.

“Senior… is willing to help me?”

Hearing his words, Yun Tao immediately trembled in excitement.

He had witnessed the strength of Elder Zhang Xuan for himself. If he were to lend a helping hand, capturing a Pixue realm savage beast would definitely be an easy feat. As long as the savage beast was captured, he had his owns means to tame it.

“Yeah!” Zhang Xuan nodded his head with the look of an expert.

“That’s great! As long as Senior is willing to help me, I will definitely succeed…”

Balling his hands into fists, Yun Tao’s eyes reddened in excitement.

“Calm down first. Even if I did help you, can you find a suitable savage beast first?” Zhang Xuan asked.

“A suitable savage beast…”

Yun Tao immediately puckered his face.

He had already taken more than ten days to find a Pixue realm Gold Alloyed Panther. Even if the other party had agreed to help him, it was useless if he wasn’t able to find another suitable savage beast.

“Your Highness, have you forgotten about that?”

A subordinate stepped forward.

“That?” Yun Tao was perplexed.

“The one who comes by daily to cause trouble,” the subordinate said.

“That thing?” Seemingly recalling something, embarrassment appeared on Yun Tao’s face.

“It’s too late to find any other savage beast. Your Highness, if you can capture and tame that fellow, you will pass the exam. Right now, the priority is to pass the beast tamer exam. We can talk about taming other savage beasts in the future!” the subordinate persuaded.

“This…” Yun Tao hesitated for a moment before turning to Zhang Xuan. “Elder, there is indeed a suitable savage beast. I will require your help in this matter.”

“Oh?” Zhang Xuan stared at Yun Tao curiously.

“It’s a… strange bird!” Yun Tao said.

“An aerial savage beast?”

Given that Yun Tao was a Dingli realm pinnacle cultivator, and since the savage beast he had to tame had to be a cultivation realm higher than his, the savage beast he was speaking of had to be Pixue realm. On top of that, given that it was a bird, Yun Tao was probably asking him to capture an aerial savage beast for him.

All of the aerial savage beasts Zhang Xuan had passed by in the Xuanluo Mountain Range were soaring in the skies several thousand meters above them. Even if Zhang Xuan intended to capture them, he was helpless.

“It can’t be considered an aerial savage beast. It is quite small in size, about… the size of a palm!” Yun Tao’s face reddened.

“The size of a palm?” Zhang Xuan was taken aback.

Based on Shen Bi Ru’s descriptions, Zhang Xuan knew that aerial savage beasts were around several zhang long, and their wings were two to three zhang wide. Only with such size could they possess sufficient strength to carry a human to the skies.

To be the size of a palm… Indeed, it couldn’t be considered an aerial savage beast. At best it was a canary.

“Even though that thing is small, it is a savage beast. Furthermore, its strength has reached Pixue realm primary stage, so its cultivation realm is slightly higher than mine…. It’s just that its physique isn’t suited for battle, so it isn’t a match for me. However, it possesses incredible speed and is impossible to catch up to!” Yun Tao explained in detail.

“Small but fast? Even if you want to tame it, it probably won’t be easy to find it!” Zhang Xuan frowned.

Even a large and slow savage beast was hard to find. A palm-sized, flying-type savage beast possessing tremendous speed could be hiding anywhere in this vast forest. How could they possibly find it!

Furthermore, it could freely fly about in the sky…. It was probably even harder to tame than the Gold Alloyed Panther.

Upon hearing those words, Yun Tao felt a little sheepish. “It is hard to find it, but for the past few days, that fellow has been pestering us. Even if we don’t take the initiative to look for it, it will come to look for us on its own.”

“Pester?”

Zhang Xuan was puzzled. Even though he didn’t have much of an understanding of savage beasts, he knew that they were guarded around humans. If a savage beast realized it wasn’t a match for its opponent, it would immediately run away as far as possible. If so, why would it pester them every day?

“This… I happened to smash its nest. Infuriated, that fellow has been coming to harass us every day….”

Yun Tao quickly explained the situation to Zhang Xuan.

After hearing the story, Zhang Xuan shook his head, unsure of whether he should sympathize with Yun Tao or burst out laughing.

This strange bird apparently liked to consume the wild honey of the mountain forest. Unaware of this fact, Yun Tao stumbled upon its nest and took away its collection of honey. That little fellow had probably been saving up for many years before being able to collect such a huge stockpile. Upon realizing that someone had stolen its treasure, it flew into a rage and chased the group.

However, due to its small physique, it wasn’t suited for battle, so it wasn’t a match for Yun Tao and his subordinates. Unable to take back its property, it had been trailing behind the group’s back. At a fixed time, it would charge in and wreak havoc.

This was now the eighth day. Looking at the time, it was roughly the time for its entry.

“That fellow seems pretty persistent….” After learning of the grudge between the bird and the man, Zhang Xuan chuckled.

“How does it wreak havoc?” Shen Bi Ru asked, curious.

Since it would charge in to cause trouble at a fixed interval, given the number of Pixue realm experts they had here, couldn’t they find some way to capture it?

“It…” Yun Tao’s face turned as red as an apple. He coughed. “It poops when it is directly above me….”

“Eh?”

Zhang Xuan and Shen Bi Ru stared at one another. They almost failed to contain their laughter.

It had to be said. This bird was truly eccentric.

“It always gets me, every time. After doing so, it flies several dozens of meters away to provoke us. By the time we catch up with it, it has already flown far away. Every day it torments us like that for two to four hours….”

Yun Tao was honestly speechless with the actions of this strange bird.

He had only stolen its honey, yet it was tormenting him every day to the point that he was already on the verge of insanity.

If not for his desire to pass the beast tamer examination, he would have never revealed it to Zhang Xuan. After all, it was very embarrassing.

For the great seventh prince of Hanwu Kingdom to be treated as a toilet by a strange bird, flying by the moment it felt an urge….

Just thinking about it drove him crazy.

“Why don’t you just return the honey?” asked Shen Bi Ru, her hand over her mouth.

“Eventually, I returned its honey to it. Yet, that fellow… still comes to harass me every day! It is too fast to be struck by our arrows, so I was preparing something for it after I finished taming the Gold Alloyed Panther. However, since I’ve failed to tame the Gold Alloyed Panther, I can use that bird for my exam instead!”

At this point, Yun Tao hesitated for a moment. “Just… that fellow is way too fast. Even an arrow can’t outpace it. Capturing it… is simply too difficult. Does Eder have anything in mind?”

“I don’t even know the appearance of that fellow or its speed. Even if you ask me now, what kind of plan can I come up with?” Zhang Xuan shook his head.

He had never even seen this strange bird before, so how could he formulate a plan to capture it?

“Ah, right! Didn’t he say that whenever the strange bird comes over to wreak havoc, it flies a dozen of meters forward to taunt them? At that moment, it would be near the ground. You can use your movement technique to dash forward to capture it!”

Shen Bi Ru suddenly thought of something and turned to look at Zhang Xuan.

She had seen Wang Ying’s movement technique, and the speed of her movements was almost equivalent to teleportation. No matter how fast that bird was, it shouldn’t pose a huge problem to Zhang laoshi.

“Yeah, I can consider that…”

Zhang Xuan nodded.

After his cultivation reached Tongxuan realm, the distance and number of times he could execute the Heaven’s Path Movement Art increased once more.

In the past, when he used the full might of the technique, he was able to travel twenty meters in a tenth of a breath. But now, in the same amount of time, he was able to travel forty meters.

Furthermore, compared to the past when he was only able to execute the technique once, he was able to execute it twice now.

Of course, this was when he was using the complete version. If he used the simplified one which he imparted to Wang Ying, given the amount of zhenqi he possessed, executing it twenty to thirty times wasn’t even a problem.

Just, his speed would decrease significantly.

With the complete version, Zhang Xuan was able to leap forty meters in a tenth of the breath. On the other hand, with the simplified version, Zhang Xuan could only cover three to four meters. Furthermore, the burden the simplified technique had on his body was significantly lower. This was precisely the reason why Wang Ying was able to execute the technique six times in the battle with Du Lei before she felt drained.

Even so, it was still an extremely fearsome technique.

Covering three to four meters in a tenth of a breath, most people would be struck before they could react.

That bird might be fast, but it was only Pixue realm. It would definitely be unable to match up to the Heaven’s Path Divine Art.

“You wish to depend on movement technique? I’m afraid that it would be difficult to do so…”

Hearing the conversation of the two, Yun Tao shook his head.

Even the most profound movement technique of their Hanwu Kingdom, [Tortoise Firmament Sonic Steps], at its top speed, was unable to match up with that strange bird.

Furthermore, there was a limit to a person’s attention as well. Since Elder Zhang Xuan seemed to specialize in strength-based assault, speed was likely to be his fatal flaw. Even if he possessed a formidable movement technique, it would still be difficult for him to keep up with the strange bird. Besides, given that the other party came from Tianxuan Kingdom, what kind of formidable movement techniques could he know of?

Based on his knowledge, the kingdom’s most powerful movement technique was [Illusory Shadows Nine Celestial Steps], and the technique paled far in comparison against the Tortoise Firmament Sonic Steps.

Since even executing the latter technique was insufficient to keep up with the bird, the former was out of question.

Thus, Yun Tao continued, “That strange bird is extremely wary of its surroundings. It often stays a suitable distance away so that it has time to react to abrupt changes. Given that even arrows are unable to hit it, catching it bare-handed is a nigh impossible task. I think we should make a trap similar to the one from before. Perhaps… we might stand a chance like that!”

“We have tried setting up traps before, but none of them worked!” a subordinate mentioned.

Upon hearing those words, Yun Tao nodded his head helplessly. “Indeed, we have set several traps for it in the past, but they never worked. The strange bird seems to know of the preparations we have made beforehand. Regardless of what we did, it refused to fall for our traps….”

Wuwuwu!

Before he could finish speaking, the whistling of the wind echoed from the on high. Something seemed to be whizzing through the sky, heading straight for Yun Tao’s head.

“It’s here!”

Upon hearing the sound of the wind, Yun Tao’s complexion turned awful. Knowing that the strange bird was here, he didn’t even bother lifting his head and dodged to the side immediately.

Padah!

However… he had barely taken a few steps when a stench assaulted his nose. His entire body was drenched with slimy white spots.

Without even looking, he knew that he had fallen for the bird’s tricks yet again!

Smelling the stench on him, Yun Tao was on the verge of tears. Turning his head to take a look, he realized that what that had fallen where he was standing before was just a rock.

Seemingly aware that Yun Tao would dodge, the bird threw a rock first to distract him.

“This fellow is capable of strategizing?”

Upon seeing the sight, Zhang Xuan was stunned.

After hearing the story, he only thought that the strange bird was vindictive. To think that it would be this smart as well.

It was completely different from the reckless Gold Alloyed Panther.

Lifting his head to take a look, a small flying bird appeared in his sight. Just like Yun Tao said, it was barely larger than a palm. Its entire body was dyed black and its appearance was reminiscent of a crow. It carried along with it a sharp aura similar to a Pixue realm expert’s.

There were many different sizes to savage beasts. Since there were beasts as huge as the Gold Alloyed Panther, there would naturally be small ones as well.

Having struck Yun Tao accurately, the strange bird was gleeful. “Caw caw!” it called before flying to around a distance of thirty meters ahead of everyone. Its beady eyes stared at the group, as though mocking everyone.

“Damn bird…”

Even though Yun Tao was infuriated at being done in by the bird again, he felt more dismay than anger.

The fellow came before they could come up with a concrete plan. Thus, it was unlikely that they could capture it today.

While he felt conflicted over the next course of action he should take, his vision suddenly blurred. A figure abruptly appeared before the strange bird, and with a pinch of his thumb and forefinger, whoosh, the swift bird was caught in the figure’s hand before it could even react.

“This… is a movement technique? How is this possible?”

Yun Tao froze.

Chapter 240: Beast Hall [2 in 1]

“How is that possible?”

“Are my eyes playing tricks on me?”

Everyone instantly began clamoring.

Even though Yun Tao’s subordinates didn’t say anything, they shared the same thoughts as their master. It was impossible for a cultivator to capture that strange bird based on their movement technique and speed.

As the subordinate of a prince, they had seen plenty of swift Tongxuan realm experts, but the sight in front of their eyes still left them completely bewildered.

For Zhang Xuan to travel dozens of meter from their side to the strange bird in the blink of an eye, this… was way too fast!

Could a movement technique be capable of such speed?

“Could it be that… we’ve underestimated him? Is Zhang Xuan a… Zongshi realm expert?”

The several of them shuddered at the thought.

Even though Hanwu Kingdom had Zongshi realm cultivators, they rarely made a move. As a result, even they were unable to fathom how fast a Zongshi could travel.

However, they had heard from the grapevine that Zongshis, as a stabilizing force of a kingdom, possessed profound abilities, and their strength was so great that it was hard to imagine.

Given how this youngster was able to subdue a Gold Alloyed Panther barehanded and capture the strange bird with just two of his fingers, even if all of them were to gang up on him, they wouldn’t stand a chance. Could it be that he was really a Zongshi realm expert?

Zongshi realm… that was the strength of the old ancestors who propped up Tier 2 Kingdoms with their sheer might. For one to appear before them, not to mention, he seemed to be under twenty….

Could it be that he was actually a young master from some prestigious clans in one of the Conferred Kingdoms?

Otherwise, how could he possibly possess such cultivation and incredible movement technique at such a young age?

Nevertheless, regardless of the truth, this youngster wasn’t someone they could afford to offend.

The several of them gulped in anxiety. For fear of inciting his rage, they didn’t even dare to breathe loudly.

“Compared to Wang Ying… he’s faster!”

Shen Bi Ru’s face paled.

Even though she was prepared for it after Wang Ying’s show of might at the Teacher Evaluation, Zhang Xuan’s speed still managed to astound her.

If he were to utilize it against her, she would probably die from the impact before she could execute any moves.

“Caw…”

While Yun Tao and the others were shocked speechless, the eyes of the strange bird widened in astonishment.

The strange bird had properly planned everything beforehand. Once the group closed in on it or use their weaponry against it, it would escape immediately. Then, when the time came, it would appear once more to wreak havoc. But why did this person suddenly appear?

If it knew that one of them possessed such incredible speed, capturing it before it could even react, it wouldn’t have dared to come over here to wreak havoc….

“Its speed isn’t that impressive!”

Holding onto the strange bird, Zhang Xuan shook his head.

When Yun Tao described how arrows were unable to hit the strange bird and how incredible its speed was, Zhang Xuan thought that it would be a troublesome opponent. As a result, he used the complete version of the movement technique, but….

What the heck is this!

Like a corpse, the bird didn’t even move! If Zhang Xuan knew that it would be like that, he would have used the incomplete version instead!

At this moment, his body was aching from the burden of the swift movement. If not for the fact that he cultivated Heaven’s Path Golden Body, this forceful increase in speed would have caused him to spit out blood.

Even though Zhang Xuan’s voice wasn’t loud, those here were all cultivators. Everyone heard his words loud and clear, and their mouths twitched.

This… It’s not that the strange bird was slow, but that you were too fast. The bird didn’t even have the time to react, alright….

Ignoring the shock everyone else was going through, Zhang Xuan activated his cultivation technique and circulated the zhenqi within his body, easing the pain. Then he turned around and called for Yun Tao. “Come over and tame it!”

“Right!”

Yun Tao ran over. Taking out a unique rope, he bound the strange bird, disabling its faculty of flight. Only then did Zhang Xuan loosen his grip.

Seeing that Yun Tao was thinking of ways to tame it, Zhang Xuan focused his attention on him. After a while, he lost interest.

Actually, it was no different from taming a dog or a cat. He prepared plenty of good stuff savage beasts would find hard to reject beforehand to attract the other party’s attention. Then, making use of all kinds of means, he tried to instill a good impression in the other party to obtain its trust.

“Normally, it would take three to four days for a savage beast to be tamed and establish a contract with a human. At the moment, His Highness is trying to gain intimacy with it. When their relationship reaches a certain point, there will be a possibility of the savage beast submitting to him. At that point, the two of them will cultivate a cultivation technique that can complement each other and boost the other’s strength. In this way the taming process will be complete!”

Afraid that Zhang Xuan was getting impatient, a subordinate walked forward and explained the process to him.

“It takes three to four days?”

“Indeed, and we’re talking about those that are easier to tame. As for the more powerful savage beasts, even official beast tamers would have to take a ton of effort. Beast Tamer Hu Qunxun from our Hanwu Kingdom once accompanied a Half-Zongshi savage beast by a marshland for three years to tame it. Every day, he would give it the food it favored. As time went by, their relationship deepened and it eventually submitted to him completely. This incident eventually went on and became a legend in our kingdom.”

The subordinate nodded his head.

“This… can become a legend?”

Zhang Xuan was exasperated.

That beast tamer must be truly free to spend three years taming a savage beast. Zhang Xuan didn’t have the effort and patience to spend that much time on such a thing.

“Indeed, strong savage beasts have their pride. Without making it feel touched or enticed, how could it willingly submit to someone else?”

At this point, fervent passion gleamed within the eyes of that subordinate. “I would be willing to spend a decade if I could win the loyalty of a Half-Zongshi realm savage beast.”

Seeing the other party getting so agitated, Zhang Xuan was taken aback. But he soon understood the reason behind his agitation.

Not everyone had the Library of Heaven’s Path like Zhang Xuan, so they weren’t able to raise their cultivation as easily as if eating and drinking like he did.

For most people, once they dredged up the final inch of their potential, they would be stuck at the same cultivation realm for their entire life, unable to achieve a breakthrough, only waiting slowly for their lives to come to an end.

Shen Hong, Liu Ling, and the others were prime examples. If they hadn’t met with Zhang Xuan, it would’ve been nigh impossible for them to achieve a breakthrough.

Given such circumstances, it was natural that they would devote their efforts into other means to raise their fighting prowess.

Putting others aside, if Emperor Shen Zhui was able to tame such a savage beast as well, even if Shen Hong were to pass away, Tianxuan Kingdom wouldn’t be at risk of an invasion.

Know that not only could a savage beast match up against cultivator beyond that of its strength, its longevity was also significantly greater than that of a human’s.

Just by taming one, the safety of the kingdom would be reassured for a century. Let alone ten years, an ordinary cultivator would probably be willing to devote decades to something if there was a possibility of success.

After all, not everyone was like Zhang Xuan, possessing strength surpassing that of the Gold Alloyed Panther, which was well-known for its might, pushing it to the point it was utterly unable to fight back. Further, he helped it surpass its limits within a few moments.

“How long will he take to tame this strange bird?”

As he pondered, Zhang Xuan no longer felt interested in watching the taming methods of a beast tamer.

“I will help Elder ask!”

The subordinate quickly rushed over. A moment later, he returned and said, “Elder, His Highness says that he estimates it will take around two days for him to succeed with the Inceptive Taming! For the beast tamer examination, just Inceptive Taming is enough. You don’t need to go through Complete Submission.”

“Inceptive Taming?”

“That means that the strange bird will remain by his side. Even if His Highness doesn’t bind it, it won’t leave!” the subordinate explained.

“Two days of effort just for this?” Zhang Xuan shook his head. “This is too slow.”

Having to spend an immense amount of effort, resources, and time just to tame a savage beast—it was much more convenient to rent one directly from the Beast Hall. Looks like… beast taming wasn’t worth learning after all.

“I shall take a look!”

After hesitating for a moment, Zhang Xuan walked over to Yun Tao and the strange bird.

“Elder!”

Upon guessing that the person before him ought to be a Zongshi, Yun Tao felt even greater admiration for the other party, and his attitude couldn’t be any more respectful.

“You need two days to complete the Inceptive Taming with this fellow?” Zhang Xuan looked at him.

“Yes!” Yun Tao glanced at the strange bird excitedly. “I used a special communication method which savage beasts can understand to communicate with it just now, and I offered it an unlimited amount of honey as long it follows by my side. Eventually, it promised to try living with me. The assessment will be two days later, and as long as I can provide it with sufficient honey, I should be able to succeed!”

“Caw!”

Hearing his words, Zhang Xuan turned to look at the strange bird, only to see that fellow stretching its neck and tilting its head back arrogantly, as though saying that he wasn’t worthy to be in its sight.

“Isn’t there any way to speed up the process?” Zhang Xuan frowned and asked.

“Caw! Caw! Caw!” the strange bird crowed.

After which, an awkward expression appeared on Yun Tao’s face. “It says that Elder was too rough with it when you captured it just now, and it is still extremely angry. Two days is already a short duration. If we try to haggle with it, it will raise it to ten days or even a month….”

“Short?” Seeing the strange bird acting so arrogantly, Zhang Xuan shook his head. “I don’t think so. I think it will submit within ten minutes.”

“Ten minutes?” Yun Tao was taken aback. Then, he immediately smiled awkwardly. “How is that possible….”

Taming a Pixue realm savage beast within ten minutes was an impossible feat.

Even the most incredible beast tamer of the Beast Hall couldn’t do so.

“It’s quite simple!”

Zhang Xuan shook his head. He stretched out his hand and said, “Give it to me!”

“Yes!” Although Yun Tao didn’t know what Zhang Xuan was up to, he handed the strange bird over.

Grabbing the bird, Zhang Xuan stared at it.

“Submit right now and become his tamed beast.”

“Caw!”

Hearing those words, the strange bird immediately glared at Zhang Xuan unhappily, as though challenging Zhang Xuan’s words.

It seemed to be saying that if Zhang Xuan wanted it to become Yun Tao’s tamed beast, he better treat it properly.

“Fine, since you are unwilling to do so, you can die right now!”

Unwilling to waste his time with it, Zhang Xuan slapped it.

Padah!

Before the strange bird could even react, it was smacked onto the ground.

“Elder…” Yun Tao’s mouth twitched and he nearly went into a frenzy.

Who tames a savage beast like this?

Even if the savage beast submits to you now, it might change its mind, bringing about plenty of trouble in the future.

The others were also dumbfounded.

You call this taming?

More like murder!

“Caw!”

Clearly, the strange bird also didn’t expect Zhang Xaun to become violent, nearly killing it with a slap. The eyes of the strange bird turned red and it struggled to its feet. However, before it could stand up, a leg appeared above it.

Whoosh!

Like a rubber ball, the strange bird flew straight onto a massive boulder. Mouthful after mouthful of blood vomited from its mouth.

“I’ll give you one last chance. Submit completely, and I will raise your cultivation and treat your injuries. Otherwise, die!”

Zhang Xuan stared at that strange bird emotionlessly.

“Caw…”

Struggling to open its eyes, the strange bird hesitated for a moment before squawking.

Hearing that sound, Yun Tao was taken aback. Then his face flushed from emotion.

“Elder… it, it agreed to it….”

“It agreed to it?”

Yun Tao’s subordinates and Shen Bi Ru felt dizzy, and they nearly fainted from shock.

This works as well?

When did beast taming become so easy?

“It’s good that you agreed. I thought that you were a valiant figure who would persevere until the very end!”

Zhang Xuan couldn’t stand watching such a small and weak savage beast acting so cockily. If it didn’t want to live, he could just send it on its way. In any case, Xuanluo Mountain Range had no shortage of savage beasts.

“Establish the contract!”

Unwilling to say anything more, Zhang Xuan grabbed the strange bird and threw it to Yun Tao.

Grabbing the strange bird while flustered, Yun Tao established a contract with the bird.

“Good, now give it to me!”

Upon seeing the confirmation of the contract, Zhang Xuan poked the strange bird, knocking it out. Then, after touching it, he passed it back to Yun Tao to wake it up.

After which, his fingers began prodding the body of the strange bird.

His fingers were swift as the wind, his zhenqi sharp as a sword.

Surge after surge of pure zhenqi gushed into the body of the strange bird, inducing an evolution.

Crick crack!

After dozens of breath, the sound of the crackling of the bones echoed. The dying bird abruptly grew larger and its aura suddenly grew significantly stronger. In a few moments, it reached Pixue realm intermediate stage.

Along with the rise in its cultivation, the injuries on its body disappeared.

“Caw?”

Sensing the changes in its body, the strange bird stared fixedly at Zhang Xuan in disbelief.

The reason it collected a large amount of honey in its nest wasn’t just to satisfy its craving. More importantly, it could raise its cultivation.

Yun Tao’s action of stealing its honey was equivalent to preventing it from raising its cultivation. That was the reason why it was so infuriated such that it was willing to waste its time wreaking havoc on the group every day.

Initially, it just intended to agree to the contract temporarily and think of a way to get back at that fellow who beat it to submission previously and cleanse itself of this humiliation. Yet the man who beat it up helped it achieve a breakthrough with just a few pokes.

Its cultivation had been stuck at the same level for many years, to achieve a breakthrough in an instant….

The strange bird suddenly felt that it might not be a bad thing to submit to a human….

Upon thinking so, its previously perfunctory submission suddenly became sincere. Bending its body, it respectfully lowered its head. All signs of arrogance from before disappeared without a trace.

“This…”

Savage beasts weren’t as adept at deception as humans. Upon seeing the attitude of the strange bird, everyone was dumbfounded.

When other people tamed a savage beast, they would do their best to serve it like it was their grandfather. Even so, it was still possible for them to fail. Yet just by punching the savage beast, this guy had been able to get it to utterly submit to him. They were just thinking that the affair with the Gold Alloyed Panther might just have been a coincidence, but when it happened for the second time, it was clear to them that Zhang Xuan possessed extraordinary capabilities in taming beasts.

“This isn’t something you can learn!”

“The first step, beating up a savage beast, isn’t hard to learn. But the second step, helping it achieve a breakthrough and healing its injuries, how could we possibly do so?”

“Frankly, you might not even be able to learn the first step either!”

“Why? Isn’t it just going all out to mercilessly beat up the savage beast?”

“Beat up the savage beast? It’s not that simple! When taming a savage beast, you try to hold back so you don’t kill it. But if you do so, the intimidation factor goes down! The reason why the strange bird submitted was because Elder Zhang Xuan would really kill it if it didn’t do so! But more importantly… Zhang Xuan was able to surpass that fellow in speed! Along with his unconcealed killing intent, he induced fear within the strange bird. Otherwise, how could that proud savage beast submit that easily?”

“Now that you speak of it… it does sound logical….”

…

Even though Zhang Xuan tamed the strange bird easily, everyone knew that it wasn’t something they could do if they were in his place. In fact, even official beast tamers couldn’t imitate his method.

Just the fact that they had to crush the confidence of the strange bird by surpassing it in terms of speed would stop many experts in their tracks.

“This fellow has already submitted, so let’s leave now!”

The reason why Zhang Xuan made a move was so that he could leave quickly. Now that the strange bird had been tamed, there was no need to remain here.

“OK!”

Delighted, Yun Tao nodded his head vigorously.

When Zhang Xuan tamed the Gold Alloyed Panther, Yun Tao thought that he was doomed for this examination. He didn’t expect the other party to be able to reverse the situation in a single go.

He looked at Zhang Xuan with gratitude.

Since they were done with their exam, all that was left was the journey back to the Beast Hall. Zhang Xuan and Shen Bi Ru sat on the back of the Gold Alloyed Panther while Yun Tao and the others kept up with them with all their might, nearly breathing their last in the midst of doing so.

Tears streamed down Yun Tao’s cheeks as he ran.

The other party got to sit on the back of a savage beast grandly, while he could only carry that silly bird of his while running behind with all his might.

Even though they had both tamed a savage beast, the difference between the two sure was huge….

Two hours later, a huge valley appeared before them.

“The spiritual energy is dense!”

Upon entering, Zhang Xuan immediately realized that something was amiss.

The spiritual energy within the valley was almost doubly denser than the spiritual energy anywhere else. The pores in his body couldn’t help but breathe in the spiritual energy gleefully, and the brushing of the spiritual energy against his body made him feel like he was soaking in a hot spring.

One could definitely cultivate to higher realms here when compared to cultivating outside.

“The Beast Hall has set up a Spirit Gathering Formation in the valley so that spirit flowers and spirit herbs can grow. The constitution of savage beasts can improve as well, increasing the probability of them achieving a breakthrough!” Shen Bi Ru said.

The first time she was here, she was astonished as well.

For a formation to span the entire valley, and the spiritual energy to be doubled…. How much would something on such a grand scale cost?

Only an organization as wealthy as the Beast Hall would likely be willing to invest such a sum!

“That’s true!” Zhang Xuan nodded his head. He breathed in deeply, and felt the cells in his body come to life.

The first 7 dans of a Fighter were 1-dan Juxi, 2-dan Dantian, 3-dan Zhenqi, 4-dan Pigu, 5-dan Dingli, 6-dan Pixue and 7-dan Tongxuan.

Putting aside the first three elementary realms of a cultivator, in 4-dan Pigu realm, zhenqi is used to nourish the physical body; in 5-dan Dingli realm, one learns to utilize their zhenqi more efficiently and raise their strength; in 6-dan Pixue, one opens up the acupoints in one’s body; in 7-dan Tongxuan, one opens up all meridians, allowing zhenqi to flow through the entire body.

These 7 dans didn’t require high amounts of spiritual energy. As such, there were plenty of Tongxuan realm experts in a place like Tianxuan Kingdom where spiritual energy was severely lacking.

However, without sufficient spiritual energy, it was difficult for one to reach Zongshi realm.

A Zongshi possessed immense strength within his body. Without sufficient spiritual energy and accumulation, it was impossible for one to reach that level.

Take Zhang Xuan for example. Even with Heaven’s Path Divine Art, it was still difficult for him to achieve a breakthrough without sufficient spiritual energy

If Zongshi realm was an ocean, then Tianxuan Kingdom’s spiritual energy was like a trickling stream. At such a pace, it would take decades of accumulation before he could fill that ocean. However, if he could use the current of a river instead, the speed would increase significantly.

Even though the spiritual energy in the air was just two times more concentrated than outside, his cultivation speed would be raised severalfold.

Looking around his surroundings, the plants were clearly much lusher and denser compared to the outside. From time to time, canaries and savage beasts would fly by, their physique significantly larger than those that roamed on the outside.

Using an analogy from my previous life, the Beast Hall is like an airport. It is built far away from the city, and those who want to go overseas and are in a rush would be forced to make the trip there!

Glancing at the numerous flying savage beasts in the air, this thought popped up in Zhang Xuan’s mind.

Previously, he wondered why the Beast Hall wasn’t built within the capital. Upon seeing those savage beasts, he immediately understood the reason.

These fellows were massive and ferocious, and if placed in the capital, conflicts would likely break out often with the indigenous population. This was something that the emperor would want to avoid happening.

“The Beast Hall is inside. Let’s enter!”

Walking down the path in the valley, the group hurried forward.

Not too long after, a city appeared before their eyes.

Stretching for dozens of kilometers, all kinds of beautiful infrastructure could be seen. Crowds packed the street, and even though the bustle of the city couldn’t match up to Tianxuan Royal City, it had surpassed most of the 2nd-tier markets.

“This is… the Beast Hall?” Zhang Xuan blinked.

He thought that the Beast Hall would be just like the Apothecary Guild, an average-sized building in the middle of the forest, isolated from the world. Yet, to think that it would be a prosperous city.

“Initially, it was only a hall. However, as time went by, traders and the descendants of beast tamers started to reside here, and eventually it grew to be the city it is today.” Yun Tao explained.

Zhang Xuan nodded.

Xuanluo Mountain Range bordered numerous kingdoms, and there were plenty of people who wanted to purchase a savage beast to protect their clan or to ride on an aerial savage beast. Furthermore, the spiritual energy here was concentrated. As such, it quite normal that it would grow to such a scale.

It was just like an airport. As time went by, all kinds of industry would be built alongside the airport, attracting countless people to reside there.

It was no wonder Shen Bi Ru gave him a strange look when he asked about how those in the Beast Hall obtained their resources.

“Let’s go to the Beast Hall!”

Upon entering the city, Zhang Xuan loitered around the streets, but he didn’t see anything of interest. So he called out and the several of them walked into the tallest building in the dead center of the city.

As the core of the city, the Beast Hall was tall and towering. Painted caesious, it was a hundred meters tall, shooting straight into the clouds. There were two gigantic savage beast sculptures at the entrance. They looked extremely savage and fearsome, adding to the grandeur of the building.

Straight ahead of them was a dozen-meter-long plaque with the words “Beast Hall” written on it in red. It was hard to tell what was used to write it, but it felt intimidating.

“It’s the blood of a high-tier beast!”

Yun Tao explained, “Such savage beasts are born strong, and even after their death, the pressure their presence exerted doesn’t disappear. Using their blood for calligraphy can instill fear in those looking at it, making them apprehensive about causing trouble there.”

“Mmm!” Zhang Xuan nodded his head.

It must be said that the Beast Hall was indeed grand in scale. Much less others, even he couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed before entering.

Upon walking through the gates, just like the Apothecary Guild, a lounge came into view. A huge crowd paced to and fro, and there were plenty of experts in their midst. In fact, some of them were even lining up, and the entire place was bustling.

“That is… Pixue realm pinnacle? Tongxuan realm intermediate stage? Also… Tongxuan realm pinnacle?”

Looking around, Zhang Xuan was astounded.

In Tianxuan Kingdom, Tongxuan realm experts were rare and highly-esteemed, but here, like cabbages in a market, they were everywhere. In fact, even the most unimpressive looking elder could very likely possess the cultivation of a Tongxuan realm pinnacle.

On the other hand, Pixue realm experts, who were qualified to become the head of a clan, seemed to be insignificant figures here. Just by sweeping in the surroundings, Zhang Xuan was able to spot a handful of them.

Chapter 241: I Tamed a Bird [2 in 1]

“Stop arguing. The ten slots to Hanwu Kingdom’s Sebei City has been filled up. If you wish to head there, come back tomorrow!”

“We still have three empty seats for Jibei City of Anyuan Kingdom! Hurry up, before it is too late!”

“The youngling of the Tongxuan realm savage beast Red-tailed Fox is for sale here. Interested buyers, take this opportunity….”

…

All kinds of ruckus and noise could be heard from the crowd ahead.

“Xuanluo Mountain Range borders ten kingdoms. Beiwu Kingdom, Hanwu Kingdom, Tianxuan Kingdom… All of them travel here to trade. Everyday, plenty of people visits the Beast Hall, especially those who wish to travel long distances. However, given the limited number of savage beasts in the entire Beast Hall and the huge traveling crowd, it is impossible for the supply to meet demand. Thus, one has to queue in advance; a few had waited for several weeks, but are still unable to get a seat!”

Watching the bustle, Yun Tao explained.

“They were unable to get seats even after several weeks?” Zhang Xuan was taken aback.

Zhang Xuan had already guessed that it was impossible for the Beast Hall to possess sufficient savage beasts to meet the demand, but he hadn’t expected such a queue.

Compared to waiting here for several weeks, it might be faster for him to just ride the Gold Alloyed Panther to Tianwu Kingdom instead.

“Elder, don’t worry!” Upon seeing his expression, Yun Tao chuckled. “Once I complete the examination and become an official beast tamer, I be able to request an aerial savage beast for elder immediately so that you won’t have to wait like the others!”

Hearing his words, Zhang Xuan heaved a sigh of relief.

Most occupations gave privileges to their own members.

For example, apothecaries are given preference and a discount in purchasing pills.

The Beast tamer occupation is no different.

Others would have to queue and pray to get a slot in order to ride a savage beast . But it is a different story for official beast tamers. They are allowed to skip the normal queue and directly access any savage beasts, thus saving time.

“Then… let’s go complete your examination!”

Upon witnessing the incredible queue, Zhang Xuan felt his goosebumps rise. Thus, he immediately turned to Yun Tao and said.

“Un, the examination site is over here!” Yun Tao led the way.

On their journey there, the passers-by would step aside immediately upon seeing Zhang Xuan’s tall and ferocious Gold Alloyed Panther.

At this moment, the Gold Alloyed Panther had already withdrawn the sharp aura it had exuded after reaching Tongxuan realm. Thus, at this moment, other than its massive size, it wasn’t too different from how it was before. At first glance, others would simply think that it was still at Pixue realm.

However, even if it were just a Pixue realm savage beast, no one was willing to get on its bad side. It wasn’t because of the strength of the savage beast, but because they were in the Beast Hall. A person who was able to bring such a huge savage beast around must have connections around. He would either be an apprentice or a beast tamer, and regardless, both aren’t people they could offend.

Thus, without anyone obstructing the way, they proceeded swiftly through the Beast Hall. Before long, they arrived before a massive room with the words ‘Beast Tamer Examination’ hung outside.

In comparison to the apothecary examination hall, the room was much wider.

“There’s quite some time before the examination ends. Let’s first enter and take a seat!”

Thinking that he would be able to become an official beast tamer soon, Yun Tao’s eyes gleamed with exhilaration. With a bright smile, he lifted his feet and walked toward the room.

“Isn’t that Yun Tao? Why are you back so quickly? Is it because you have given up on the examination and decided to come back alone?”

A voice with a mocking tone rang out of a sudden.

Turning his head to take a look, it was a young man, who led several subordinates and a gigantic Tiger Head Beast, strutting in their direction.

The Tiger Head Beast was larger in size than the Gold Alloyed Panther and the aura it emanated was much more fearsome. It felt as though it was capable of tearing apart the heavens.

Nevertheless, it was still lacking in its cultivation, being just Pixue realm primary stage.

“This is the sixth prince of Beichen Kingdom, Zhu Jinhuang. He has always been at loggerheads with our prince…”

Sensing Zhang Xuan’s confusion, Yun Tao’s subordinate whispered to Zhang Xuan.

“Beichen Kingdom?”

A book about the geography and containing maps appeared in Zhang Xuan’s mind.

Just like Hanwu Kingdom, Beichen was also a Tier 2 Kingdom. As they were close neighbors, there was constant friction between the two countries, and they could be considered as rivals. Belonging to the royal family of each kingdom, it was natural that they would view one another with hostility.

“Actually, their grudge isn’t… because of their country’s background, but…”

Before Yun Tao’s subordinate could finish his words, footsteps rang and another group approached.

“Jinhuang, how can you say so? Don’t you see that Gold Alloyed Panther behind him? With such a huge fellow, he will surely pass the examination!” A white-robed young man chuckled softly. But then, he frowned and continued, “Just that… Doesn’t it seem that the Gold Alloyed Panther isn’t intimate with him? It can’t be that it isn’t his tamed beast!”

It sounded as if he was here to absolve Yun Tao from his awkward situation, but his lips were curled up in ridicule.

“This is the ninth prince of Qianyuan Kingdom, Zhou Xuan. He isn’t on good terms with our prince as well…” Yun Tao’s subordinates continued explaining.

Qianyuan Kingdom was also a Tier 2 Kingdom, and it wasn’t too far from the Beast Hall. However, it was on the opposite side of the Xuanluo Mountain Range from Tianxuan Kingdom, closer to Tianwu Kingdom.

“Oh, I only noticed it now that you spoke of it!”

Glancing at the Gold Alloyed Panther who was intimate with another unknown youngster instead of Yun Tao, Zhu Jinhuang chuckled, “Yun Tao, it can’t be that you failed to tame a savage beast and found someone to borrow one in your stead? If that’s the case, I advise you to be careful. If the Beast Hall were to find out about this matter, you will be barred from the examinations for life. By then, you can only leave obediently!”

There were clear rules in the Beast Hall, and if a beast tamer used another person’s savage beast for the examination, once found out, that person would be barred from the beast tamer examination for life. In other words, he would never become an official beast tamer.

As fellow apprentice beast tamers, Zhou Xuan and Zhu Jinhuang possessed superb eye of discernment as well. With a single glance, they were able to tell that the Gold Alloyed Panther was only close to Zhang Xuan. Clearly, it wasn’t Yun Tao’s tamed beast.

“Hehe, once he fails that examination, I would like to see how he dares to continue pursuing Mo Yu xiaojie!” Zhou Xuan said.

“Pursue? He should be escape as far as he can! Given the incredible talents Mo Yu xiaojie possesses, someone like him will never match up to her!” Zhu Jinhuang harrumphed coldly.

“Me, unqualified? None of you are any better than me, so stop making a fool out of yourselves here. Why don’t you pass the beast tamer examination before spouting such nonsense?” Seeing the two of them ganging up against him, Yun Tao flung his sleeves furiously.

“Is that so? You seem quite confident! We’ll see how you cry later on then. It is not just about passing the beast tamer examination, I would like to see what grade you are capable of obtaining!”

Zhou Xuan said.

“Worry for yourself! I’m afraid that you won’t even obtain a grade-3!” Yun Tao said.

“You…” Zhou Xuan narrowed his eyes. “I hope that you can continue being that confident after the examination.”

“Hmph!”

The trio stared at one another in hostility, none of them seeming to possess the intention to back out.

Hearing their words, Zhang Xuan understood the situation immediately. Their rivalry wasn’t because of their countries, but a lady named Mo Yu.

“Mo Yu xiaojie is a famous genius among the apprentice beast tamers. Currently, she’s undergoing the beast tamer examination along with all of the princes. Due to her beauty and capability, these princes, hailing from different countries, are all infatuated with her, and they fight secretly in the shadows, hoping to gain her favor…”

Yun Tao’s subordinate told Zhang Xuan via zhenqi transmission.

Upon knowing the reason, Zhang Xuan shook his head.

As princes, they were thought to be disputing over territories or such. To think that it would be because of a woman.

“It’s Mo Yu xiaojie!”

“Quick, look at that savage beast behind her…”

“How incredible!”

…

The trio were in a glaring at one another when a commotion broke out and a slim figure slowly walked over.

Behind her, a towering eagle followed. Steel-backed with golden wings, its eyes were sharp as though lightning, causing its viewers to put on their guards subconsciously.

“A Tongxuan realm savage beast?” Zhang Xuan’s expression turned grim.

This eagle has reached the strength of a Tongxuan realm advanced stage, and it is much stronger than his Gold Alloyed Panther.

Furthermore, vaguely, Zhang Xuan could feel something reminiscent of a storm within its aura. Most probably, the eagle possesses speed comparable to the strange bird previously, exceeding it even.

“Mo Yu xiaojie!”

Upon seeing the figure, Yun Tao, Zhu Jinhuang, and Zhou Xuan’s eyes lit up. They hurried to welcome her.

“So this person is Mo Yu?”

Only after examining the eagle did Zhang Xuan’s gaze finally land on the slim figure in front.

Around twenty-three or twenty-four-year-old, she was dressed in a light green robe which displayed her beautiful figure perfectly. Her lustrous hair which trailed down to her slim waist, coupled with her white smooth skin made her a unique beauty.

In terms of her beauty, she was in no way inferior to Shen Bi Ru. In fact, she wasn’t too far from Zhao Ya after triggering the ten percent of the Pure Yin Body Consitution.

While she was beautiful, she had an extremely cold expression. Toward Yun Tao and the others, she disregarded them altogether.

“As expected of Mo Yu xiaojie, your skills are indeed incredible!” Zhu Jinhuang walked up to her with a smile. “A Tongxuan realm Viridescent Eagle, probably you are the only one who is capable of taming it. I’m impressed!”

“Of course, it’s just a mere Viridescent Eagle. Any savage beast would be willing to submit to Mo Yu xiaojie immediately!”

Zhou Xuan chuckled.

Toward the flattery of the two, Mo Yu xiaojie simply glanced at them impassively. Gazing about, she saw Shen Bi Ru and froze for a moment. Then, she walked over.

“You came here to take the beast master examination? What about Han Qiong? Is she here?”

Her voice was crisp and moving, but it felt distant and foreign.

“She didn’t come. I came here with another friend.” Shen Bi Ru pointed at Zhang Xuan.

Mo Yu xiaojie glanced at Zhang Xuan casually before turning away, as though his presence meant nothing at all. Without saying anything, she walked into the room.

Even though they had been disregarded, Zhu Jinhuang and the others didn’t seem displeased at all. They hurriedly followed her in.

“You two know each other?” Unbothered with Mo Yu xiaojie’s disregard, he turned to look at Shen laoshi doubtfully.

“I met her with I was here with Han Qiong the previous time.” Shen Bi Ru nodded her head.

“Is she really just a talented apprentice beast tamer?” Zhang Xuan asked.

No matter how beautiful that lady was and how talented she was in beast taming, it shouldn’t be possible for the princes of three great kingdoms to be fawning on her like that.

Regardless of whether it was Beichen, Qianyuan, or Hanwu, as Tier 2 Kingdoms, they should have a sizeable number of beast tamers in their country. As she is a mere apprentice, there was no reason for the princes to talk to her so subserviently.

In a Tier 2 Kingdom, not even a master teacher apprentice has such standing.

Along with the rise in the tier of the kingdom, the stronger the monarchy becomes. Unless one is a high-tier member of his occupation, he would simply be disregarded by the royal family. Only in small countries like Tianxuan Kingdom would an emperor treat a master teacher apprentice with utmost respect.

“Indeed, she isn’t a mere apprentice beast tamer. I’ve heard Han Qiong speak of it once, she possesses another identity… The third princess of Tianwu Kingdom!” Shen Bi Ru pondered for a moment before replying.

“The third princess of Tianwu Kingdom?” Zhang Xuan finally understood the reason.

This is more like it.

As a Tier 1 Kingdom, Tianwu Kingdom is the dominant power among the surrounding twelve kingdoms.

As a princess of Tianwu Kingdom, Mo Yu’s identity is much more noble than the royal family of those smaller kingdoms. If they were to marry her, as the prince consort, they would gain a powerful backing in their fight for the throne in their kingdoms.

It seems that Zhu Jinhuang, Zhou Xuan, and Yun Tao all have the same idea in mind.

However, the fact that she was a princess didn’t matter at all to Zhang Xuan.

In Zhang Xuan’s view, one should rely on himself. Power granted by others is illusory.

The duo walked into the room as they spoke.

Contrary to the situation outside, there were only a few people in the room.

“All four of us taking the examination are back. Who do you think will be the one to assess us?”

“Of course it will be the Hall Master! As a 2-star beast tamer, he is the most capable beast tamer in the Beast Hall. Usually, he’s the one who acts as the examiner.”

“That’s true. I’ve heard that the Hall Master is extremely strict in his assessment, I wonder if that’s the case.”

“Regardless, our prince has already tamed a savage beast and fulfilled the passing criteria. There should be no problem becoming a 1-star beast tamer.”

…

Upon walking into the room, Zhang Xuan heard some hushed discussions.

The three princes have each brought a few of their subordinates along, while Mo Yu xiaojie came on her own. Standing by the side, the cold aura she emanated discouraged anyone from approaching her.

“Judging from her tone early, is there a conflict between her and Han laoshi?”

Seeing how the third princess of Tianwu Kingdom didn’t bring along a single servant and her cold behavior, Zhang Xuan suddenly recalled the conversation between her and Shen Bi Ru. Thus, he asked.

“It can’t actually be considered as a conflict. As an apprentice beast tamer, Han laoshi also once stayed at the Beast Hall for a period of time. As they’re both beauties, they were often compared to each other and as time went by, they became rivals. Just that, I didn’t expect her to take the beast tamer examination so quickly. She is indeed talented.”

Shen Bi Ru’s astonishment was clear to see.

“Talented?” Zhang Xuan was puzzled.

She is talented just because she took the beast tamer examination?

“Looks like you don’t know of it. This Princess Mo Yu has barely learned beast taming for a year!” Shen Bi Ru said.

“Barely for a year? Then she’s indeed talented!” Zhang Xuan nodded his head.

Even though Zhang Xuan didn’t have much of an understanding of beast taming, he was a certified apothecary. Given that both occupations were around the same ranking in the Upper Nine Paths, beast taming was likely to be a highly difficult occupation as well.

To become an apprentice, and even undergo the beast tamer examination when she has barely learned for a single year, she was indeed a fearsome genius.

“More importantly… she is also a 1-star apothecary! Furthermore, she isn’t far from reaching 2-star! On top of that… she’s also a master teacher apprentice. It’s said the reason why she came here to learn beast taming is train her mental fortitude. Once her preparations are done, she can take the 1-star master teacher examination upon returning to her land.”

Shen Bi Ru said.

“1-star apothecary? Master teacher apprentice?”

Zhang Xuan was taken aback.

Even though she shared a similar situation to him, Zhang Xuan knew that the other party was much more talented than him.

Luck played a big part in why Zhang Xuan could become a 1-star apothecary. Furthermore, he had relied greatly on the power of the Library of Heaven’s Path. With his current pill forging proficiency, he can only formulate some basic powder, and forging pills is still way out of his reach.

To successfully become a 1-star apothecary through her very own capabilities at such a young age, and not to mention, having became a master teacher apprentice, it was no wonder why others would call her a genius. She was indeed worthy of the title.

While the two was speaking, an elder walked in.

“Silence. I’m in charge of assessing you today!”

Upon seeing the elder, everyone was taken aback.

“Beast Tamer Hong? Why is he the one in charge of the assessment?” Yun Tao was stunned. “Usually, the Hall Master would be the one who conduct the assessment. Furthermore, the rules state that a 2-star beast master must be present at the assessment. Even though Beast Tamer Hong possess a high standing within the Beast Hall, he’s still at 1-star pinnacle… He isn’t yet qualified to conduct an assessment.”

Seeing the doubt on everyone’s faces, Beast Tamer Hong said, “The Hall Master and the other elders have something else to attend to, so today, I’ll be conducting the assessment in their place! I will follow the steps strictly and I won’t condone any bribery or cheating, so there’s no need to worry at all. Besides, there are Record Crystals all around, and as long as you fulfill the criteria, you will pass the examination and become a member of the Beast Hall.”

“Yes!”

Everyone nodded in assent.

Regardless of whether it was for the apothecaries or the beast tamers, all examinations would require Record Crystals to be ready so that the proceedings can be checked on if something turns out to be amiss.

With this object present, no one would dare to cheat.

“Those here are apprentice beast tamers who have passed the first examination. I believe everyone is well aware of the content of the second examination and the structure it takes, but for the sake of formalities, I shall mention them once more.”

Beast Tamer Hong glanced at the surroundings, “The test requires you to tame a savage beast who’s stronger than you. Even though an Inceptive Taming would be sufficient, different grades can be awarded.”

“The higher the cultivation of the savage beast compared to you, and the more loyal the savage beast is, the higher your grade.”

“There are 3 grades, namely grade-1, grade-2, and grade-3. The higher one’s grade is, the better one’s results are. I believe that no one here has any disagreements to my words, right?”

“Yes!” Yun Tao and the others nodded hurriedly.

“Alright, I’ll start the examination then. First, Zhou Xuan!” Beast Tamer Hong glanced at Zhou Xuan.

“Yes!” Zhou Xuan stepped forward.

“What did you tame?” Beast Tamer Hong asked.

“Reporting to Beast Tamer Hong, I tamed that Whistling Fang Wolf! It is a Pixue realm primary stage savage beast.” Zhou Xuan pointed to the side, and his subordinates immediately brought a three-meter long wolf over.

The huge wolf has gray fur, and within its mouth, sharp fangs could be seen. Just by its outer appearance itself, one could almost see how it would brutally tear apart its prey.

“Un!”

Nodding his head, Beast Tamer Hong retrieved and passed a crystal ball.

“This is a Heart Inquisition Crystal which tests a savage beast’s loyalty. A number will appear on it, and for Inceptive Taming, the Loyalty Level would range between 15 to 30. The higher the number, the better the grade.”

“Heart Inquisition Crystal?”

Looking at the object, Zhang Xuan nodded his head.

Back then, during the Enlightenment Will Trial, that was the object which was used to test Liu Yang’s Trust Level.

It seems that the object is more than capable of testing a human’s trust; it is able to gauge a savage beast’s loyalty as well.

But on further contemplation, it made sense. Since it was able to induce life-like illusions in one’s head upon contact, the Loyalty or Trust Level shown should be extremely accurate.

Just like the test of Trust Level, Zhou Xuan first dripped a droplet of blood on it before communicating with his savage beast.

Soon, a number slowly floated into appearance on the crystal——20!

“For its Loyalty Level to reach 20 within less than half a month, you have passed the Inceptive Taming prerequisites. Not bad, I’ll give you a grade-2!”

Upon seeing the numbers, Beast Tamer Hong stroked his beard in approval.

To find a savage beast, tame it, and raise its Loyalty Level to this point within half a month, the other party is definitely qualified to become a 1-star beast tamer.

“His Highness is indeed impressive!”

“It has been long since anyone has been given a grade-2 in the Beast Hall!”

“Indeed, this is incredible!”

Upon hearing his results, discussions immediate broke out below.

For the beast tamer examination, grade-3 was already considered as a pass. Those who reached grade-2 were considered as geniuses among the new beast tamers.

“Grade-2, not bad. However, I won’t lose to you!”

Not expecting Zhou Xuan’s results to be so good, Zhu Jinhuang was stunned. However, he soon smiled and walked over.

It didn’t take long for the results to be out. That Tiger Head Beast of his also had a Loyalty Point of 20 or so, and he was deemed to be at grade-2 as well.

“It’s Mo Yu xiaojie’s turn!”

“Mo Yu xiaojie tamed an aerial savage beast, which is much harder to tame than any other savage beast. Furthermore, it is at Tongxuan realm, so the additional points she receive should be great!”

“You’re right. I think her result will probably exceed that of a grade-2.”

“It has been thirty years since the last grade-1 result in the Beast Hall. Do you think that the record will be broken today?”

…

Seeing Mo Yu xiaojie walk up, everyone’s anxious gazes immediately fell on her.

To be given a grade-1 ranking in the beast tamer examination is equivalent to forging a pill reaching Perfection in the apothecary examination.

Such a beast tamer will be highly valued by the Beast Hall. All kinds of resources would be invested into grooming her.

It was already an incredible feat for Zhou Xuan and Zhu Jinhuang to receive a grade-2, but Mo Yu xiaojie was clearly much more skilled than them. Everyone was curious to see if history could be created today.

Disregarding the commotion, Mo Yu xiaojie calmly walked forward. With a beckon, the massive Viridescent Eagle slowly paced forward as well.

Repeating the same actions as the two before her, she soon completed the assessment.

Loyalty Level, 40!

“Grade-1! This result definitely warrants for a grade-1!”

The room immediately burst into commotion.

Even though everyone has already guessed that Mo Yu xiaojie would likely receive a grade-1 ranking, they were still shocked when it came.

“Hehe, Yun Tao, it’s your turn. We’re all grade-2, and Mo Yu xiaojie has achieved a grade-1. You spoke so arrogantly previously, so I think it should be impossible for you to show us a grade-3. If I were to get a grade-3, I would be so embarrassed that I would hole myself up in my room!”

Seeing that it was Yun Tao’s turn, Zhu Jinhuang sneered.

“I think Brother Zhu is overestimating him. Putting aside grade-3, I think that… passing the examination may already pose a problem to him!” Zhou Xuan harrumphed coldly.

“This Gold Alloyed Panther isn’t his, so where’s the savage beast he tamed?”

“That’s true, it can’t be that he hadn’t tamed any savage beast?”

“If that’s the case, it means that he has already failed…”

The two of them spoke loudly, and their words immediately created an uproar.

Even Mo Yu xiaojie couldn’t help but frown.

“Silence!”

Waving his hand and silencing the discussions, Beast Tamer Hong turned to look at Yun Tao doubtfully, “What did you tame? Is it that Gold Alloyed Panther?”

“That’s not it, the panther was tamed by Elder Zhang Xuan…”

Yun Tao scratched his head awkwardly, “I… tamed a bird!”

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“A bird” is a chinese pun, and it also can be interpreted as ‘The heck that I have tamed anything’.

It is an offensive way of replying another person’s question.