I proved immortality through the imperial examination.

Chapter 195 Master and Disciple
As Xue Xiang's shout fell, a deathly silence descended upon the arena and its surroundings.

Within the human camp, everyone lowered their heads and looked down, seemingly unable to look directly at Xiong Jingang.

Someone moved their lips and teeth, but no sound came out.

Some people were holding the scroll so tightly that their knuckles turned white.

Many remained silent, as if suffocated by the pressure. The previously high morale plummeted completely at this moment.

The wind blew from all directions, and the banners fluttered.

The sky was overcast, and the clouds hung low, as if they were about to collapse at any moment.

Amidst the utter silence, a person slowly stepped onto the arena.

Pang Weiyi walked with a steady gait and had a deep gaze.

The moment he appeared, all eyes of the human faction turned to him, as if waiting for him to speak.

Pang Weiyi stood to the side of the platform, staring at Xue Xiang, and said loudly, "I never thought that there would be someone like you among the demon race."

"Today, you've gained the upper hand."

Having said that, he pointed to the point of light in the sky, "The sword intent of the Benevolent Sword has floated on the chaotic sea of ​​literature for thirty thousand years. It is both imprisoned and nourished by the literary energy."

For millennia, human scholars, working together, have devised countless methods, yet they have still been unable to subdue it.

Even if our human race yields and hands over the right to seize power to the demon race, you will be powerless to stop it.

As soon as these words were spoken, a cold laugh came from within the demon race's formation.

Chi Ri Feng Huo strode out, his shoulders and back still bearing burn marks, but his aura was noticeably more stable than before.

His expression was grim as he declared loudly, "Pang Weiyi, the matter of the Benevolent Sword is none of your concern. In the struggle between the two races, let's settle things with our abilities."

Pang Weiyi said, "Fellow Daoist Chi Ri, do not act rashly."

We have prepared thirteen poems of truth, only to subdue the intent of the Benevolent Sword, and we do not wish to use them to harm anyone.

"While Xiong Jingang may be a formidable hero for his time, do you truly expect us to produce a poem of truth and take his life?"

The scorching sun and fiery winds remained silent.

Xue Xiang shouted loudly, "True words poetry? It's nothing but fancy words that people think will be passed down to future generations."

These words enraged the human faction.

Xue Xiang said loudly, "Gentlemen, you all cherish true words and poems, so I will just recite one offhand."

Having said that, Xue Xiang recited aloud, "

Don't listen to the sound of forest hitting leaves, why not scream and walk slowly.

With bamboo staff and straw sandals, I travel lighter than on horseback; who cares? I'll let the rain and mist of life take their course.

The chilly spring breeze sobered me up; it was slightly cold, but the slanting sunlight on the mountaintop welcomed me.

Looking back at the desolate place I came from, returning, there is neither wind nor rain, neither sunshine nor gloom.

Upon hearing this poem, everyone looked at each other in horror, and the demons were stunned.

Even those without literary background can sense the composure and magnanimity in this person.

No praise is needed; the violent struggle of the two rubbings of the Wendao Stele in the sky is proof enough.

The Wen Yuan Chaotic Sea was originally a place brimming with literary energy, but the chaotic literary energy has turned it into a forbidden zone.

The humans and demons have come here to compete for the sword intent of the Benevolent Sword. The first thing they need to deal with is the chaotic literary energy here.

Both clans spared no effort in using the Wendao Stele to suppress the chaotic literary atmosphere here.

At this moment, the chaotic literary energy transformed into thirteen giant dragons, which were firmly bound to the two literary steles in the sky.

Just now, the two sides engaged in a fierce battle on the platform, their poetry and prose scattering their literary spirit, which in turn manifested in imagery, and the battle continued unabated.

But even the most outstanding poems and essays can only make these literary dragons sway slightly.

At this moment, Xue Xiang brought out this poem "Calming the Waves," which directly caused the thirteen giant dragons of literary energy that were locked on the two literary steles to struggle violently, and also made the literary steles restless.

The struggling dragon still shakes off a great deal of literary energy.

The literary atmosphere was palpable, and a profound and expansive imagery swept through the entire venue.

Pang Weiyi stood on the ring, enveloped in this imagery.

He was deeply shaken. He knew very well that although this poem was not a war poem, its imagery was so ethereal that if Xue Xiang had a change of heart, this expansive imagery could be transformed into a murderous scene at any time.

He never dreamed that Xiong Jingang would not boast, but casually utter such a masterpiece.

Anyone who came up with such a masterpiece would keep it deep in their heart and would never release it until the crucial moment.

However, he showed no sign of treasuring such a masterpiece as Xiong Jingang, which instantly shattered Pang Weiyi's last shred of arrogance.

The imagery that reveals the meaning of the words continues to unfold, and a chorus of praise follows.

Compared to the unrealistic and frenzied praise from the demon race, the praise from the human race, though restrained, was more genuine.

Xue Xiang was very satisfied with the effect he achieved in portraying Xiong Jingang in this performance.

He had seen the blazing sun and fiery winds nod at him more than once.

Don't be fooled by how weak this old monster looks now.

Once he leaves the chaotic seas of Wen Yuan, and once he returns to his original position, he will be a force to be reckoned with.

This favor has been incredibly profitable.

Just as he was feeling sentimental, suddenly, he felt a weight in his chest, and the heat that had been supporting his transformation into a demon receded like the tide.

He immediately realized that the effects of morning and evening dew were about to run out.

He certainly couldn't consume the morning and evening dew in front of everyone.

While everyone was still reeling from the imagery and meaning of the words, he looked up at the sky and sighed, gazing at the surrounding landscape with a forlorn expression. Then he said loudly, "I thought we could have another great battle with the human race, but I never expected it to be so boring."

Go rest, go rest.

He then raised his head and chanted:

Autumn leaves flutter like a dream, the world changes like a game of chess.

Cordyceps may have a humble name, but that's not something I've given up; my lofty sentiments towards mountains and seas cannot be swayed.

Survival is the theme.

One stroke opens up myriad possibilities, and all things return to one in stillness.

The laws of Heaven are constant, and the laws of the Three Realms are constant; the mysteries of human nature are boundless and eternal.

Who knows the foundation of creation?

The sound of poetry spread, the literary spirit once again swayed, and heaven and earth resounded in response.

Autumn leaves fluttered down from the void, their shadows shimmering, as if time itself had fallen from the heavens. A chessboard appeared on the river's surface, black and white pieces rising and falling on the waves, seemingly depicting the myriad aspects of life…

Xue Xiang's figure, with his robes fluttering, drifted away long before the artistic conception was fully realized.

The human ranks were shaken.

"This poem has a lofty artistic conception and directly explores the wonders of nature."

“If he were one of my human race, he would be a Grand Master.”

"He knows when to advance and when to retreat, and he follows the rules. I admire him."

The discussions were like a surging tide, all filled with amazement and admiration.

The demon faction was in uproar.

"What a magnificent bear-like machine!"

How carefree!

"Such outstanding talents should be recommended to study in our clan's sacred mountain!"

The young demon generals clenched their fists and shouted at the top of their lungs.

With a piercing gaze, Chi Rifeng Huo said in a deep voice, "This child will surely become the red banner of my demon race!"

No matter how many or how profound the feelings, they will eventually come to an end.

With Xiong Jingang gone, the flames of conflict quickly reignited.

A powerful demon appeared from the demon race camp, pointing out that the human race had been defeated in this battle and should respect the agreement.

The human race clung to the wording, stating that Xiong Jingang himself had said that even in a one-to-many situation, it would only count as one round.

You Xiong Jin just defended the ring for one round and then left. How can that be considered a successful defense?

This statement completely enraged the demon race, and their curses echoed through the sky.

"When Xiong Jingang was around, you cowered and dared not speak; but as soon as he left, you started shouting. What kind of heroes are you?"

You humans pride yourselves on propriety and righteousness, but it turns out you're nothing but cowards who bully the weak.

"You despicable and shameless humans are truly unworthy to be ranked alongside my demon race in the forest of wisdom."

"........."

The argument escalated, and it looked like they were about to start fighting again.

Left with no other choice, Chi Ri Feng Huo and Pang Wei Yi had to meet again to discuss the matter.

Pang Weiyi, still concerned about his reputation, frankly admitted that the human race had indeed lost this battle, but he could not face the scholars if he rashly admitted defeat.

It was also pointed out that the demon race lacked the means to obtain the sword intent of the Benevolent Sword.

He was willing to offer other forms of compensation in exchange for Chi Ri Feng Huo persuading the demon race to back down.

Chi Ri Feng Huo naturally knew that Pang Wei Yi was telling the truth.

In fact, it was the demon race that arrived here first and took the lead in refining the sword intent of the Benevolent Sword.

As a result, after a lot of effort, they couldn't find a solution and were eventually caught up by the humans, leading to a chaotic battle.

Right now, even if the human race relinquishes the right to extract the sword intent of the Benevolent Sword, he really can't find a good method for the time being.

But this didn't stop him from making exorbitant demands on the human race. Just as the two sides were about to reach a consensus, a clear and melodious singing voice suddenly rang out.

"Sing when you win, rest when you lose."

Many sorrows and resentments, yet all remain.

Drink today, for tomorrow we may die.
Worry tomorrow and worry tomorrow. "

His voice was unhurried, carrying a hint of nonchalance and self-deprecation, like the wind sweeping across a hillside, clearly reaching everyone's ears.

In just four short sentences, the clamor between the human and the demon was completely suppressed.

Before the song had even finished, everyone turned to look in the direction of the sound. From the shadows of the mountains, they saw a figure wearing a cloak striding towards them.

The man walked leisurely, neither fast nor slow, as if he were just taking a stroll; his shoulders and back were slightly hunched, but he did not appear weak, but rather exuded an air of composure.

The thick cloak obscured his face, making it difficult to see clearly; judging by his physique alone, he was no different from a human.

His sudden appearance drew everyone's attention.

"Please make yourselves at home. I am looking for someone. Excuse me... oh dear."

The cloaked figure stared at the two people in the human camp and said, "Yunlei and the Two Saints, it's wonderful that you two young friends are here as well."

Lei Ze and Ling Yun looked at each other, not recognizing the cloaked figure.

The next instant, a burst of light shot out from between the cloaked man's brows, the light manifesting as a hazy aura of literature, shrouding his entire body.

"My two young friends, how could you forget our old friends from the Bohai Bay?"

"The cloaked man said leisurely."

Lei Ze and Ling Yun exclaimed in unison, "So it's a senior!"

Lei Yun stepped forward, his sleeves fluttering, and bowed to the cloaked figure.

After saying that, he introduced the senior to the crowd in a loud voice, "This senior is none other than the famous Master of Mingde Dongxuan. He once captured a dragon with one hand and suppressed the eight wastelands; he also wrote 'On Teachers' and 'On the Love of Lotus,' which have been passed down to this day."

The sound faded, and the entire room fell silent.

Among the human race, some had their expressions change drastically, while others dropped their scrolls and held their breath in hushed tones.

The demons, who had been mocking them, fell silent, their expressions freezing.

Everyone knows that whoever controls the Wenxu Blessed Land must be a powerful figure in that region.

After a moment of silence, a surge of discussion arose.

"The way of writing is superior to that of poetry."

"The 'On Teachers' has been enshrined in the Confucian Temple and listed among the sages."

"The 'On the Love of Lotus' should be hung in the Wenyuan Pavilion, so that it can be viewed for all ages."

The voices of the human faction grew louder, carrying a sense of unease.

The atmosphere in the demon camp was heavy. The young demon generals had not yet understood what was happening, but the old demons already had their brows furrowed.

Pang Weiyi stepped forward, cupped his hands in greeting, and said, "I am Pang Weiyi, greetings to senior."

"Your masterpiece is deeply admired and respected by this junior."

The cloaked figure calmly waved his hand, "Just an empty reputation, not worth it. What are you doing here?"

Needless to say, the cloaked man was none other than Xue Xiang.

He played the role of Xiong Jingang to gain fame, to create explosive popularity among the demon race, and to pave the way for the future.

Similarly, he is now pretending to be the Lord of Mingde Dongxuan, also to gain fame.

Clearly, the scene before us is a high-level game.

Since Xiong Jingang has made a name for himself among the high-ranking members of the demon race, why shouldn't the Lord of Mingde Cave also try to make a name for himself?

Pang Weiyi quickly explained what had happened, then bowed respectfully to Xue Xiang, saying, "The human race is in dire straits today, suffering setbacks in several battles. We humbly request your assistance, senior."

Xue Xiang sighed, "I never imagined that the human race would have fallen to such a state."

In this land of vibrant literary atmosphere, you, with your verses sung with the power of words, could turn a verbal battle into a fierce contest, yet you are still no match for the demon race. How can this not chill the heart?

As soon as Xue Xiang finished speaking, everyone's face turned red.

Sweat rolled down Pang Weiyi's forehead as he said urgently, "If you gentlemen are guilty, the guilt lies with me alone."

"It's all because of Pang's incompetent leadership; there's a demon named Youxiong Jingang who is truly difficult to defeat."

"As expected, the Bear King Kong is here!"

Xue Xiang shouted loudly.

The entire audience was shocked.

Pang Weiyi was overjoyed, "This scoundrel is extremely arrogant, having defeated us several times in a row. We beg you, senior, to avenge us."

Chi Ri Feng Huo stepped forward from the demon camp, his body still bearing the marks of past wounds, but his aura had stabilized. "If Xiong Jingang is in trouble, then my demon race is in trouble."

I'll take on his grudge with blazing fury.

In an instant, a murderous aura filled the air.

Suddenly, Xue Xiang let out a long roar, "You've all misunderstood, Xiong Jingang is my disciple."

During his cultivation of literary energy, he inadvertently stumbled into the chaotic sea of ​​literature.

I was worried about his safety, so I came here to look for him.

So you have all seen him. May I ask where he went?

boom!
The entire audience was thrown into chaos once again.

"How can a human take a demon as a disciple? What about the great separation between humans and demons?"

"With such strength, their rules are the rules."

"How is this possible? You, you are..."

Pang Weiyi was shocked and his words were incoherent.

Xue Xiang said, "In the past, I traveled all over the world and also listened to lectures under the great sages of the demon race."

Youxiong Jingang is a good boy. I teach him poetry and moral principles.

Although he appears rough and uncouth, he actually has a kind heart.

May I ask, when you fought against Vajra, did he go on a killing spree and harm anyone's life?

If so, I will punish them severely to restore justice to you all.

The human race fell silent.

Upon reflection, everyone realized that since Xiong Jingang took the stage, although he had won every battle and made a great commotion, he had never actually taken anyone's life.

"This, this is impossible!"

A young demon general shouted sternly, "Youxiong Jingang is a towering hero of my demon race. How could he possibly take you, a human, as his master? Stop talking nonsense."

"That's right, Xiong Jing would never do such a thing..."

"Nonsense, Xiong Jingang's talent is innate."

Seeing that a group of young people were about to incite anger, Chi Ri Feng Huo shouted sternly, "Shut up, all of you!"

The Venerable Master Mingde Dongxuan was a teacher who taught without discrimination and was willing to impart the Vajra Technique. Our clan owes the Venerable Master Mingde Dongxuan a debt of gratitude.

How dare you be so rude! Quickly apologize to Senior Mingde Dongxuan!

The group of young demon generals dared not disobey the blazing sun and wind, and all returned the greeting to Xue Xiang.

Seeing that the demon race was ungrateful, the human race became angry.

"How could you, senior, pass on the laws of the demon race? Today, it has indeed caused endless harm."

"Yes, the senior was able to write 'On Teachers' and 'On the Love of Lotus,' clearly a great Confucian scholar of our time. If he doesn't teach the elites of our human race, how can he cultivate enemies for our human race?"

"I was wondering why Xiong Jingang was so amazing, spouting famous works all the time. Turns out he studied under such a great senior."

"........."

Discussions began to rise within the human faction.

Upon hearing this, the demons felt somewhat guilty.

After all, Xiong Jingang suddenly appeared, suddenly became so powerful, and possessed such unparalleled poetic talent.

It's simply unreasonable.

Now the Lord of Mingde Dongxuan has come and confirmed that Youxiong Jingang is his disciple.

Now, the demons realized that it made perfect sense.

After all, what tree grows without a source of water or without roots?

In the end, they still benefited from the human race.

"Gentlemen, please hear me out."

Xue Xiang said loudly, "If my disciple has done anything wrong, I will take full responsibility."

Anyone who wants to settle scores with King Kong may come forward.

Xue asked three times, but no one answered.

"Senior, you flatter us. Although Xiong Jingang is a demon, we are at ease with your guidance."

Pang Weiyi quickly tried to smooth things over.

Chi Ri Feng Huo said, "For the sake of seniors, Pang Weiyi, I agree to your proposal."

The sword intent of this Benevolent Sword is at your disposal, human race, to be refined, but the compensation you promised must be delivered.

Pang Weiyi knew that this was the arrival of the Lord of Mingde Cave, which brought a great sense of pressure to Chiri Fenghuo.

Otherwise, the blazing sun and fiery winds would never have spoken so easily.

(End of this chapter)