Chapter 08 - The Nobility is too messed up!
ZeroXSEED
Economic Authoritarian Muslim Leftist
- Location
- In the name of orange!
- Pronouns
- He
"For those of you who are present, whether you stand upright or bedridden, congratulations." The Dean of the Northern Comet Academy said behind the podium. "You all have been successfully admitted to this humble Dao Science school. Being here proves you're not just made of talent and money."
"Hard work and courage are indispensable. Treachery is unforgivable. The person next to you is your brother and sister in learning. No loss and no shame in being kind to each other. Nevertheless, lack of competition breeds complacency."
"Discuss, argue, even fight each other with all your strength and wits, but do not forget your morals. Should you commit evil against each other, I'm afraid the punishment would not be light."
"Other than the mandatory scientific writing and advanced arithmetic, you may attend class or pick a preexisting study program you want. Do not bite more than you can chew. But the hunger for learning is also a virtue. The Academy only wishes for you to live a balanced student life."
Interesting. So the only mandatory classes are scientific writing and advanced arithmetic. No wonder the entrance exam required basic arithmetic. Aside from that, everything else is up for grabs.
"You'll all be handed minimum provision and accommodation. Should you ask more, we ask you to contribute more. Knowledge is a resource, and resources are knowledge. Everything is interchangeable. Learning the trades is growing to be an adult."
The contribution points awarded from the practical exam are the key. People who successfully gathered a lot of kills have a head start. In this case, Jingyi does have a head start.
"You can now get yourself settled in this Academy. If you have any issues, feel free to ask the staff." The Dean said. "Don't ask your Senior. And make sure to move in groups. You'll get hazed otherwise."
The students were split entirely in half. Half of them were hysterically laughing while the other half were in stunned silence. So the school realizes that bullying and hazing are a thing but won't step in unless it goes too far.
"That's all."
The students all left the multipurpose hall and immediately formed groups with each other. Naturally, Jingyi and Xuan Lian stick with Xuan Di. However, something bothered Xuan Lian.
"Are you thinking about Ouyang Fang?" Jingyi whispered.
"Well yeah. Fang was my friend, and I still think he is. Of course, I'd be worried." Xuan Lian said. "Fang is even more temperamental than I am, and he's also a hermit."
Nevertheless, he no longer trusts Xuan Lian. Considering the situation, that was a given.
"Di-er could probably help. Their relationship is not bad, after all."
"Yeah, they both hate Xuan Clan for their own reason. What a bond they share!" Xuan Lian said in disgust. "But they are not to blame. In fact, I share part of the blame. So bothering Di-er with it is a bit..."
This girl has too good self-awareness. When they first met, the proverbial mask she wore was a symbol of filial piety toward the Xuan Clan. Bullying Di-er back then must have been hurtful to herself.
Well, she grew past that real quick. That hotheaded Xuan Tong probably broke her limit of patience.
"Tie a goat by the fence, tie a man by the house." Xuan Di popped up between them. "The housing issue is unresolved. Ask him for cohabitation."
"CRAZY TALK!" Xuan Lian balked. "Who taught you such a vulgar idea? Young man and woman living together is-"
Xuan Di pointed at the dozens of couples forming. Right as the new students left the hall. Either they came together before the test. Or they hooked up with each other just like that. "This is a Dao school, after all."
"Jingyi-jie stays with me. That is a given. Splitting the bill for a medium-sized dwelling would save a lot of hassle." Xuan Di argued. "Fang-ge, though. I'm willing to bet money he'll pick a single-person house in the most remote part of the residential area."
"You know, it is crazy how well you read him. That's what Fang would do." Xuan Lian twitched.
"Is it to save cost on contribution points?" Jingyi asked.
"Indeed." Xuan Lian said. "His family wealth disappeared, and he's an orphan, so it's not like he's raining money as we do. Since contribution points are important for studies, he had to conserve them."
You can buy contribution points. That is a given. Otherwise, where did they get funding from? For students without wealth, their contribution points are also their lifeblood.
There is another catch. Every student can only buy so much contribution. Not only to prevent the monopoly of school assets but to discourage corruption and encourage meritocracy. The system is not ideal but generally regarded as fair.
Even IF you're raining money, you can still end up destitute! On the other hand, the hard-working students are rewarded as they deserve.
"Fang has no incentive to accept even if I offer him." Xuan Lian frowned. "If he wanted to be alone, he would be alone."
"Isn't there an easy solution for that?" Jingyi crossed her arms, amused.
Xuan Lian twitched. Jingyi was telling her to discard her pride. Again. But considering what Xuan Lian did, groveling is probably the least she could do to earn his trust.
"Heavens bless you with that." Xuan Di waved his hand and left.
"Hey!"
...
"Two bedchambers and a kitchen. That kind of residence would be in short supply." The clerk raised his monocle. "We have a few. This one here is the highest quality residence of the class. Location close to the Spirit Water spring, quite expensive. Even some staff, afraid they'd salivate at the thought."
"Spirit water is good." Xuan Di nodded. "And the rent... it was quite expensive. But split between us?"
"No problem," Jingyi said. "Spirit water, who wouldn't want it? Even I benefit from it."
"I suppose that would be an agreement." Xuan Di decided.
"I'd say you should reconsider." A voice called out from behind. "Shige eyed it for a long while. Little brother, please leave it to me."
Xuan Di and Jingyi looked back to notice an older student, probably seventeen years old. He had this charming masculine aura on her. Piercing eyes and a sharp jawline. Though, for a man, there was a lot of femininity in him.
"Shige is..." Xuan Di asked, wary.
"Gege is Chen Guiying. And this is my little sister, Chen Xiuying. Gained a few contributions recently. We intend to move to a new residence. If Shidi doesn't mind, consider it a favor."
"I don't mind, but Shijie should ask my fiancee." Xuan Di smiled.
"Asking your fiancee? Don't you have a shred of dignity? Why don't you go and decide."
In contrast to the refined and dignified Guiying, Xiuying could be anything but. Although she was pretty beyond belief, she had no trace of gentleness. With a fierce look and an even worse mouth, this girl is the type to make enemies anywhere.
Besides, she also looks childish, like Xuan Di himself.
"Why don't I ask her? It would be a home for both of us." Xuan Di said. "She paid for half of it, even. Her opinion matter as much as mine. If she agrees, then we have a deal."
Jingyi wondered if losing the spirit water spring was worth avoiding the conflict. It was such a cultivation resource for her.
"I need the spirit water source. If you can suggest an alternative, consider it a fair trade." Jingyi said.
"Afraid nothing else is left. Even with houses with more or less room than two." The clerk said. "A few have spiritual rivers, but the purity is mediocre."
"Willing to trade it with either treasures or contribution points," Guiying said confidently. "Even fourth or fifth-grade material."
"I have no need for those," Jingyi said. "My fiancee's family already provides enough."
"Hmph. Indignant!" Xiuying called out. "Whether it's Black Jade Orchid or Heart Fire Lotus, your peasants could barely think of it."
Black Jade Orchid?!
It is a rare plant of Yin in nature. They only grow in the deepest cave of a natural forest, devoid of light. Not only guarded by fierce beasts. But sometimes, they were also haunted by powerful Yin fiends.
"Jingyi-jie." Xuan Di whispered. "Don't you need one for breaking through?"
"That's still years in the future. Taking care of the orchid would be a pain." Jingyi winced. "But is it fine to make an enemy of her?"
"No." Xuan Di said. "Let's just give up."
"Alright."
"Right, how about Black Jade Orchid Pill?" Xuan Di proposed. "My fiancee most likely would accept."
Guiying gasped. "Black Jade Orchid Pill? That's...."
"Crazy talk!" Xiuying balked. "Moon Jade Orchid Pill could only be made by a top alchemist using tedious water method! Even among nobles and powerful families, asking for it is not casual!"
"Well, could you give us or not?" Jingyi asked.
"Jiejie, don't listen to her. I don't want to deal with these poor-mannered beggars with a hole in the pocket." Xiuying gritted her teeth. "My ancestor will curse my name."
"Ill-mannered?" Jingyi twitched.
"Yeah. You're just lucky to have gathered enough points from killing dumb beasts. Dare to ask for good residences before me, don't blame me for being rude!"
"Bitch." Jingyi said as she left.
Jingyi is usually a patient person. Even in the face of bullying from Xuan Lian, Jingyi kept her temper. But this time, she had enough.
"What did you say?"
Noisy bitch.
Xuan Di and Jingyi stayed quiet as they walked off the administration office. They played deaf even as the spoiled princess screeched at the top of her lungs.
"Dare to ignore me! You're courting death!" Xiuying stepped out of the office and gathered her Qi in her palm, preparing to cast something. However, Jingyi disappeared into a white haze, leaving her hat behind, and reappeared up close. "W-wha-"
This shock dispersed Xiuying's spell preparation.
"Do it and see what happens," Jingyi calmly asked. Now that her shrouded straw hat fell, Xiuying saw Jingyi's ghostly white face and glowing blue eyes.
"It's so easy being rich, thinking everything can be solved with money." Xuan Di said.
CHAPTER 08 - THE NOBILITY IS TOO MESSED UP!
"I'll make you eat dirt and kowtow to This Highness, you ghost woman!" Xiuying pointed.
Jingyi didn't heed her insult and continued her way.
"You! Ignoring me is worse than humiliation."
"Shut the fuck up." Xuan Di told her. "Chen Xiuying? More like Zhou-"
Xuan Di's words stopped when he had to block a sword aimed right at his throat. The calm and collected Guiying became murderous in a split second.
"I suggest you calm down," Jingyi said.
Guiying's killing intent was immediately replaced by fear when he realized what happened. He and Xiuying were surrounded by eight flying swords that materialized out of thin air, and under them was a complicated attack formation.
Xiuying looked like she was about to cry!
"Say your demand," Guiying muttered.
"I demand you to shut the fuck up and leave us alone." Xuan Di was smiling, but his voice was venomous. "It is not my intention to be an enemy of the royal family. But consider this a warning for your little princess to behave. We have no enmities, don't create one."
"With how she behaved, Assassins would be all too delighted when they notice," Jingyi shrugged. "You fool."
"How dare you!"
Xuan Di recalled all of the flying swords back into his storage.
"You can have the rent house. No need to compensate us." Xuan Di said. "Make sure to put all the security methods you can use. If you meet us, pretend we don't know each other."
"Unfortunately, we can't do that," Guiying said. "Those who found out, I'm afraid, in danger of being silenced."
"Far as I remember, North Comet Academy doesn't forgive treacherous behavior. I'm afraid if we disappear, you'd be implicated." Jingyi jibed. "We'll make sure of that, actually."
Jingyi's monotonous response actually spooked both Guiying and Xiuying. It was like she didn't fear death.
"You blue blood sure is ungrateful. No wonder people hate you a lot." Xuan Di shook his head. "And you have the worst security measure. I'm fine if you kill me. Just swear to Heaven you will kill yourself soon after."
"You bastard!" Xiuying raised her fist. "Dare to threaten my brother, I would kill-"
"Shimei." Guiying's voice turned cold. "Enough. What do you want?"
"Swear you would not try to kill us. And we will swear we would not leak this. Lest we got struck by heavenly lightning." Xuan Di raised his two fingers. "Under the sky, all humans are equal."
"You-" Xiuying bit her lips. "Alright. Tell me your name, peasants."
"Xuan Di and Tang Jingyi."
Jingyi noticed the expression changes on Guiying and Xiuyin's collective faces.
"I swear to Heaven we would not try to violently silence Xuan Di and Tang Jingyi," Xiuying said.
"We swear to Heaven we would not disclose Chen Xiuying's identity without your permission." Xuan Di and Jingyi said in unison.
"That oath is one thing, and humiliating me is another! This Highness slap you back and bl-"
Guiying clamped Xiuying's mouth with a smile. Jingyi could see Xiuying struggling despite the restraint, her face was red from anger, but she couldn't say anything back.
"Shidi is correct. The biggest security hole is here, so let me shut it down. First, stop addressing yourself with [This Highness], you idiot sister. Second, don't pick fights with random people, lest you get humiliated and bring shame to the family name."
Xiuying looked at her brother with pure, unadulterated horror.
"Shige is wise. Jingyi apologizes for the offense and thanks you for the generosity." Jingyi cupped her hand and bowed.
"Shige also apologizes for the offense and thanks you for the generosity," Guiying responded. "Shidi and Shimei, don't worry. You will be compensated."
"As I said, we just want to live a peaceful life." Xuan Di smiled. However, this time, it was genuine. "If Xiuying got hurt, the Academy's situation would also be hellish for us. If that happens, I'll be absolutely pissed. Even seeking revenge, don't know who to kill."
Xiuying and Guiying looked at Xuan Di with utter disbelief. This dude legitimately just wanted to go to school?!
"It's been seven months, and Mo-ge still wasn't wrong." Jingyi deadpanned. "Why is it that you always attract crazy girls?"
To a degree, Jingyi might not be violently crazy. She is still a borderline paranoid oddball with two souls inside her. Choosing [Ghost Jade Forge] alone made her a freak among women.
But to Xuan Di, she's probably the one that can be reasoned with the easiest. It's been seven months since their engagement. It worked well for both of them.
"Heavens know. Maybe I am cursed." Xuan Di shook his head. "Let's return to the administration office and sign something quick. We need a place to rest."
...
"We'd like a change of request. We want a two bedchambers house that is as isolated as possible." Jingyi said.
"In that case, this house here is unclaimed. It's on top of a hill near the edge of the Academy grounds and has a river down the valley. The terrain is good, afraid not much in the way of the garden's spiritual fertility, and the spirit water quality is also mediocre. This is quite cheap compared to the rest."
The administrative clerk talked about the richness of life energy in the water and soil. This life energy will be transformed into Qi or Jing energy, depending on what has consumed them. The richer the soil and water, the better the product.
Even something as simple as Tiger Lily, planted in a suitable area, can reach second grade, with occasional third-grade White Tiger Lily. That's why a residence garden, for a student, can turn the tide of cultivation.
Conversely, food with little life energy is useless for martial cultivation. A poor-quality garden with mediocre water is sad.
"Losing the spirit water spring is worth crying, but alright," Jingyi said. "I believe this is an acceptable substitute."
"I take it no one else objects?" The clerk decided it was beneath him. "Please sign the paper with your spiritual signature."
"I object." Chen Xiuying said.
Xuan Di got so mad that Jingyi had to hug him from behind before he could slap the shit out of the little princess.
"Fuck you and fuck the throne you sit on!" Xuan Di swore.
"Shidi, please don't be mad. We have a proposal." Chen Guiying bowed. "Sir Clerk, there should be one mansion with four bedchambers close to a spring, right?"
"There is one. The spring is of lesser quality, though." The clerk said. "With four of you? Still a bit expensive but more affordable per person than the previous one."
"This humble Shimei hopes to nurture a good relationship with you two," Guiying said. "Right, Xiuying?"
Jingyi could tell that Xiuying was dying inside as she half-bowed. "This girl had eyes but couldn't see the mountain. Please forgive."
"Ahh, this is going to be a real pain." Xuan Di cringed.
What's worse than a prideful princess? A humiliated princess with an agenda! Even Jingyi wasn't dumb enough not to realize this. Xiuying wanted something from them.
And that. That would be a pain.
"No," Jingyi said. "Di-er want you to leave us alone. Unless he changes his mind, please forget about us."
"Fourth heir, Xuan Shidi, please reconsider."
Xuan, they used the name Xuan, therefore knowing the implication. Jingyi doesn't know the details. But most likely that the royal family has a tie with the Xuans. Especially the fact that they knew how Xuan Di became the fourth heir.
Otherwise, Xuan Di recognizing her like this would be weirder.
"Just the fourth heir and a branch family member, this character dare not be presumptuous." Xuan Di suddenly became polite again. "Invoking the Xuan's name, you better seek the second heir instead."
In other words, leave and find Xuan Lian. Xiuying looked like she almost lost it and grabbed Xuan Di.
"Presumptuous? You're being presumptuous! This Highness will support you in the heir competition!" Xiuying whispered.
"This servant is under your command." Xuan Di cupped his hand. His face was gleeful.
Jingyi snorted, then wordlessly did the same thing. Xuan Di is incredibly deceptive at times. Xiuying was baffled, while Guiying wondered if they made a mistake.
This young sword-formation prodigy, they don't know, was also a little devil.
Signing the document for four residents in one of the four-chambers residences, the four walked out. Jingyi was content, Xuan Di was laughing, Xiuying was still confused, and Guiying was disheartened.
"Shidi sure is merciless," Guiying said. "You're not greedy, but we're dancing on your palm."
"Not my fault you have such a naive Master." Xuan Di crossed his arms, arrogant. "Be thankful I am not greedy."
In exchange for secrecy, cohabitation, and other forms of support, Xuan Di asked for nothing but Xiuying's blessing in his race for clan succession. However, this is a powerful tool. Even compared to the Xuans, Xiuying's background is a step higher.
Befriending her like this is a huge benefit.
"...I am speechless." Xiuying was agape. "How it took so long for me to realize. I should have gone for Xuan Lian!"
"From now on, I will teach you the art of war." Xuan Di said. "Getting fooled by me, consider it a blessing."
"You say that, but you're also annoyed," Jingyi muttered.
"I was supposed to take my time and sort my plans now that we can halt the progression of my disease." Xuan Di shook his head. "Of course, I would be annoyed. We'll have to build all my ambition around this girl's whims."
Even if there was an opportunity, Xuan Di only took it out of spite! In fairness, Jingyi has to agree. That intense exam took a toll on their body. And now a princess is bugging them.
A mistake could cost him his aspiration and life!
"Speaking of which, Jingyi-Shimei, I've never heard of you before." Chen Guiying said. "Being a Xuan fiancee, naturally, should be big news."
"I'm just an adopted daughter of an old swordsman who happened to be Patriarch Yuan's friend. Naturally, the Xuans despised me for being a nobody." Jingyi said.
"Pppft, kidding. The Xuans despised me, period." Xuan Di said. "Their treatment of you, I'm afraid, is collateral at most."
"How could you two be so calm... being hated by your family like this?" Xiuying muttered.
"What is family? Is it your parents? Your siblings? Your cousins from aunts and uncles? Marriage exists to build a family, is it not?" Xuan Di rhetorically asked. "Those who despise me, to me, they're just an outsider."
"And they're strangers to me." Jingyi nodded. "As long as Patriarch Yuan gave his blessing, I'm afraid they can do nothing."
"For this reason, I'm afraid Jingyi is clueless about the background between the Xuans and the... ahem, Chen family." Xuan Di corrected himself. "I don't have the heart to divulge. Xiuyin-er can decide as she sees fit."
"I see." Chen Guiying mischievously smiled. For a moment, he looked more like a sister than a brother.
"Peh. I feel insulted but also honored. Patriarch Yuan, I'm afraid, is a complicated man like that. I both admire him and despise him for that reason."
"I believe most Xuans also have a similarly complicated view of him," Jingyi said. "But at sixty years old, already a Pseudo-core expert. No one is willing to contest his supremacy."
"Even prodigies at five academies, if indulgent, can also be trapped by their own ego. And the so-called talent became a millstone that weigh them down." Guiying hummed. "So many genii reach the Qi-condensation stage at sixteen or less. How many of them attained a Pseudo-core? Certainly more than the average. Yet still, it was never guaranteed."
In comparison, Xuan Yuan only became Qi-condensation cultivator at nineteen. Most people? Even actively practicing could only reach it in early adulthood.
"Luck is also a form of strength," Jingyi said. "Without meeting Xuan Di, I'm afraid my cultivation would still be messed up. Forget reaching Qi-condensation so quickly. I might be in physical danger."
"Indeed, opportunities do not knock twice." Xuan Di said. "Thanks to her and father-in-law, we made some breakthroughs to offset my body degradation."
Although Xuan Di is still far from fit, his body is no longer sickly thin. For this, he could only thank the Heavens.
"Ah... there is also that problem, huh." Xiuying frowned. "Xuan Tian, that bastard. Dare to show up in front of me? I'll twist his neck!"
Xuan Tian? Isn't that the name of Xuan Lian's younger brother?
"Originally, a marriage was arranged between me and him. However, after Xuan Di's incident, Patriarch Yuan came to my family and prostrated before us." Xiuying sadly recalled. "At that time, he begged for the annulment of the engagement because he felt his son was not moral enough."
It is strange. In most situations, a father would beg the opposite way, asking for the engagement to be preserved despite everything. Patriarch Yuan defied the norm.
"My father said Xuan Yuan is a man of absolute justice and worthy of respect. For this reason, my honored family gave Xuan Clan face and maintained good relationships." Xiuying remarked. "Nevertheless, the elders still give him a hard time, didn't they?"
"To a degree." Xuan Di nodded. "Is that the reason why you seek for me?"
"I want to support your revenge." Xiuying's face darkened. "Against that treacherous scum Xuan Tian who humiliated me by causing the marriage annulment."
Jingyi, for the first time ever, scrunched her face in fear and disbelief. Just how petty could Chen Xiuyin be?!
"Good! Good!" Xuan Di rubbed his hands, excited. "I believe this would be a fruitful relationship."
"Of course. This Higness had decided it would be one. Oho-ho-ho-ho!" Xiuying laughed.
Jingyi looked at Guiying, who was foaming in the mouth. Clan politics are way too messed up!
...
Notes
-Di is a suffix for little brother. The formal form is Shidi
-Mei is a suffix for little sister. The formal form is Shimei
"Hard work and courage are indispensable. Treachery is unforgivable. The person next to you is your brother and sister in learning. No loss and no shame in being kind to each other. Nevertheless, lack of competition breeds complacency."
"Discuss, argue, even fight each other with all your strength and wits, but do not forget your morals. Should you commit evil against each other, I'm afraid the punishment would not be light."
"Other than the mandatory scientific writing and advanced arithmetic, you may attend class or pick a preexisting study program you want. Do not bite more than you can chew. But the hunger for learning is also a virtue. The Academy only wishes for you to live a balanced student life."
Interesting. So the only mandatory classes are scientific writing and advanced arithmetic. No wonder the entrance exam required basic arithmetic. Aside from that, everything else is up for grabs.
"You'll all be handed minimum provision and accommodation. Should you ask more, we ask you to contribute more. Knowledge is a resource, and resources are knowledge. Everything is interchangeable. Learning the trades is growing to be an adult."
The contribution points awarded from the practical exam are the key. People who successfully gathered a lot of kills have a head start. In this case, Jingyi does have a head start.
"You can now get yourself settled in this Academy. If you have any issues, feel free to ask the staff." The Dean said. "Don't ask your Senior. And make sure to move in groups. You'll get hazed otherwise."
The students were split entirely in half. Half of them were hysterically laughing while the other half were in stunned silence. So the school realizes that bullying and hazing are a thing but won't step in unless it goes too far.
"That's all."
The students all left the multipurpose hall and immediately formed groups with each other. Naturally, Jingyi and Xuan Lian stick with Xuan Di. However, something bothered Xuan Lian.
"Are you thinking about Ouyang Fang?" Jingyi whispered.
"Well yeah. Fang was my friend, and I still think he is. Of course, I'd be worried." Xuan Lian said. "Fang is even more temperamental than I am, and he's also a hermit."
Nevertheless, he no longer trusts Xuan Lian. Considering the situation, that was a given.
"Di-er could probably help. Their relationship is not bad, after all."
"Yeah, they both hate Xuan Clan for their own reason. What a bond they share!" Xuan Lian said in disgust. "But they are not to blame. In fact, I share part of the blame. So bothering Di-er with it is a bit..."
This girl has too good self-awareness. When they first met, the proverbial mask she wore was a symbol of filial piety toward the Xuan Clan. Bullying Di-er back then must have been hurtful to herself.
Well, she grew past that real quick. That hotheaded Xuan Tong probably broke her limit of patience.
"Tie a goat by the fence, tie a man by the house." Xuan Di popped up between them. "The housing issue is unresolved. Ask him for cohabitation."
"CRAZY TALK!" Xuan Lian balked. "Who taught you such a vulgar idea? Young man and woman living together is-"
Xuan Di pointed at the dozens of couples forming. Right as the new students left the hall. Either they came together before the test. Or they hooked up with each other just like that. "This is a Dao school, after all."
"Jingyi-jie stays with me. That is a given. Splitting the bill for a medium-sized dwelling would save a lot of hassle." Xuan Di argued. "Fang-ge, though. I'm willing to bet money he'll pick a single-person house in the most remote part of the residential area."
"You know, it is crazy how well you read him. That's what Fang would do." Xuan Lian twitched.
"Is it to save cost on contribution points?" Jingyi asked.
"Indeed." Xuan Lian said. "His family wealth disappeared, and he's an orphan, so it's not like he's raining money as we do. Since contribution points are important for studies, he had to conserve them."
You can buy contribution points. That is a given. Otherwise, where did they get funding from? For students without wealth, their contribution points are also their lifeblood.
There is another catch. Every student can only buy so much contribution. Not only to prevent the monopoly of school assets but to discourage corruption and encourage meritocracy. The system is not ideal but generally regarded as fair.
Even IF you're raining money, you can still end up destitute! On the other hand, the hard-working students are rewarded as they deserve.
"Fang has no incentive to accept even if I offer him." Xuan Lian frowned. "If he wanted to be alone, he would be alone."
"Isn't there an easy solution for that?" Jingyi crossed her arms, amused.
Xuan Lian twitched. Jingyi was telling her to discard her pride. Again. But considering what Xuan Lian did, groveling is probably the least she could do to earn his trust.
"Heavens bless you with that." Xuan Di waved his hand and left.
"Hey!"
...
"Two bedchambers and a kitchen. That kind of residence would be in short supply." The clerk raised his monocle. "We have a few. This one here is the highest quality residence of the class. Location close to the Spirit Water spring, quite expensive. Even some staff, afraid they'd salivate at the thought."
"Spirit water is good." Xuan Di nodded. "And the rent... it was quite expensive. But split between us?"
"No problem," Jingyi said. "Spirit water, who wouldn't want it? Even I benefit from it."
"I suppose that would be an agreement." Xuan Di decided.
"I'd say you should reconsider." A voice called out from behind. "Shige eyed it for a long while. Little brother, please leave it to me."
Xuan Di and Jingyi looked back to notice an older student, probably seventeen years old. He had this charming masculine aura on her. Piercing eyes and a sharp jawline. Though, for a man, there was a lot of femininity in him.
"Shige is..." Xuan Di asked, wary.
"Gege is Chen Guiying. And this is my little sister, Chen Xiuying. Gained a few contributions recently. We intend to move to a new residence. If Shidi doesn't mind, consider it a favor."
"I don't mind, but Shijie should ask my fiancee." Xuan Di smiled.
"Asking your fiancee? Don't you have a shred of dignity? Why don't you go and decide."
In contrast to the refined and dignified Guiying, Xiuying could be anything but. Although she was pretty beyond belief, she had no trace of gentleness. With a fierce look and an even worse mouth, this girl is the type to make enemies anywhere.
Besides, she also looks childish, like Xuan Di himself.
"Why don't I ask her? It would be a home for both of us." Xuan Di said. "She paid for half of it, even. Her opinion matter as much as mine. If she agrees, then we have a deal."
Jingyi wondered if losing the spirit water spring was worth avoiding the conflict. It was such a cultivation resource for her.
"I need the spirit water source. If you can suggest an alternative, consider it a fair trade." Jingyi said.
"Afraid nothing else is left. Even with houses with more or less room than two." The clerk said. "A few have spiritual rivers, but the purity is mediocre."
"Willing to trade it with either treasures or contribution points," Guiying said confidently. "Even fourth or fifth-grade material."
"I have no need for those," Jingyi said. "My fiancee's family already provides enough."
"Hmph. Indignant!" Xiuying called out. "Whether it's Black Jade Orchid or Heart Fire Lotus, your peasants could barely think of it."
Black Jade Orchid?!
It is a rare plant of Yin in nature. They only grow in the deepest cave of a natural forest, devoid of light. Not only guarded by fierce beasts. But sometimes, they were also haunted by powerful Yin fiends.
"Jingyi-jie." Xuan Di whispered. "Don't you need one for breaking through?"
"That's still years in the future. Taking care of the orchid would be a pain." Jingyi winced. "But is it fine to make an enemy of her?"
"No." Xuan Di said. "Let's just give up."
"Alright."
"Right, how about Black Jade Orchid Pill?" Xuan Di proposed. "My fiancee most likely would accept."
Guiying gasped. "Black Jade Orchid Pill? That's...."
"Crazy talk!" Xiuying balked. "Moon Jade Orchid Pill could only be made by a top alchemist using tedious water method! Even among nobles and powerful families, asking for it is not casual!"
"Well, could you give us or not?" Jingyi asked.
"Jiejie, don't listen to her. I don't want to deal with these poor-mannered beggars with a hole in the pocket." Xiuying gritted her teeth. "My ancestor will curse my name."
"Ill-mannered?" Jingyi twitched.
"Yeah. You're just lucky to have gathered enough points from killing dumb beasts. Dare to ask for good residences before me, don't blame me for being rude!"
"Bitch." Jingyi said as she left.
Jingyi is usually a patient person. Even in the face of bullying from Xuan Lian, Jingyi kept her temper. But this time, she had enough.
"What did you say?"
Noisy bitch.
Xuan Di and Jingyi stayed quiet as they walked off the administration office. They played deaf even as the spoiled princess screeched at the top of her lungs.
"Dare to ignore me! You're courting death!" Xiuying stepped out of the office and gathered her Qi in her palm, preparing to cast something. However, Jingyi disappeared into a white haze, leaving her hat behind, and reappeared up close. "W-wha-"
This shock dispersed Xiuying's spell preparation.
"Do it and see what happens," Jingyi calmly asked. Now that her shrouded straw hat fell, Xiuying saw Jingyi's ghostly white face and glowing blue eyes.
"It's so easy being rich, thinking everything can be solved with money." Xuan Di said.
CHAPTER 08 - THE NOBILITY IS TOO MESSED UP!
"I'll make you eat dirt and kowtow to This Highness, you ghost woman!" Xiuying pointed.
Jingyi didn't heed her insult and continued her way.
"You! Ignoring me is worse than humiliation."
"Shut the fuck up." Xuan Di told her. "Chen Xiuying? More like Zhou-"
Xuan Di's words stopped when he had to block a sword aimed right at his throat. The calm and collected Guiying became murderous in a split second.
"I suggest you calm down," Jingyi said.
Guiying's killing intent was immediately replaced by fear when he realized what happened. He and Xiuying were surrounded by eight flying swords that materialized out of thin air, and under them was a complicated attack formation.
Xiuying looked like she was about to cry!
"Say your demand," Guiying muttered.
"I demand you to shut the fuck up and leave us alone." Xuan Di was smiling, but his voice was venomous. "It is not my intention to be an enemy of the royal family. But consider this a warning for your little princess to behave. We have no enmities, don't create one."
"With how she behaved, Assassins would be all too delighted when they notice," Jingyi shrugged. "You fool."
"How dare you!"
Xuan Di recalled all of the flying swords back into his storage.
"You can have the rent house. No need to compensate us." Xuan Di said. "Make sure to put all the security methods you can use. If you meet us, pretend we don't know each other."
"Unfortunately, we can't do that," Guiying said. "Those who found out, I'm afraid, in danger of being silenced."
"Far as I remember, North Comet Academy doesn't forgive treacherous behavior. I'm afraid if we disappear, you'd be implicated." Jingyi jibed. "We'll make sure of that, actually."
Jingyi's monotonous response actually spooked both Guiying and Xiuying. It was like she didn't fear death.
"You blue blood sure is ungrateful. No wonder people hate you a lot." Xuan Di shook his head. "And you have the worst security measure. I'm fine if you kill me. Just swear to Heaven you will kill yourself soon after."
"You bastard!" Xiuying raised her fist. "Dare to threaten my brother, I would kill-"
"Shimei." Guiying's voice turned cold. "Enough. What do you want?"
"Swear you would not try to kill us. And we will swear we would not leak this. Lest we got struck by heavenly lightning." Xuan Di raised his two fingers. "Under the sky, all humans are equal."
"You-" Xiuying bit her lips. "Alright. Tell me your name, peasants."
"Xuan Di and Tang Jingyi."
Jingyi noticed the expression changes on Guiying and Xiuyin's collective faces.
"I swear to Heaven we would not try to violently silence Xuan Di and Tang Jingyi," Xiuying said.
"We swear to Heaven we would not disclose Chen Xiuying's identity without your permission." Xuan Di and Jingyi said in unison.
"That oath is one thing, and humiliating me is another! This Highness slap you back and bl-"
Guiying clamped Xiuying's mouth with a smile. Jingyi could see Xiuying struggling despite the restraint, her face was red from anger, but she couldn't say anything back.
"Shidi is correct. The biggest security hole is here, so let me shut it down. First, stop addressing yourself with [This Highness], you idiot sister. Second, don't pick fights with random people, lest you get humiliated and bring shame to the family name."
Xiuying looked at her brother with pure, unadulterated horror.
"Shige is wise. Jingyi apologizes for the offense and thanks you for the generosity." Jingyi cupped her hand and bowed.
"Shige also apologizes for the offense and thanks you for the generosity," Guiying responded. "Shidi and Shimei, don't worry. You will be compensated."
"As I said, we just want to live a peaceful life." Xuan Di smiled. However, this time, it was genuine. "If Xiuying got hurt, the Academy's situation would also be hellish for us. If that happens, I'll be absolutely pissed. Even seeking revenge, don't know who to kill."
Xiuying and Guiying looked at Xuan Di with utter disbelief. This dude legitimately just wanted to go to school?!
"It's been seven months, and Mo-ge still wasn't wrong." Jingyi deadpanned. "Why is it that you always attract crazy girls?"
To a degree, Jingyi might not be violently crazy. She is still a borderline paranoid oddball with two souls inside her. Choosing [Ghost Jade Forge] alone made her a freak among women.
But to Xuan Di, she's probably the one that can be reasoned with the easiest. It's been seven months since their engagement. It worked well for both of them.
"Heavens know. Maybe I am cursed." Xuan Di shook his head. "Let's return to the administration office and sign something quick. We need a place to rest."
...
"We'd like a change of request. We want a two bedchambers house that is as isolated as possible." Jingyi said.
"In that case, this house here is unclaimed. It's on top of a hill near the edge of the Academy grounds and has a river down the valley. The terrain is good, afraid not much in the way of the garden's spiritual fertility, and the spirit water quality is also mediocre. This is quite cheap compared to the rest."
The administrative clerk talked about the richness of life energy in the water and soil. This life energy will be transformed into Qi or Jing energy, depending on what has consumed them. The richer the soil and water, the better the product.
Even something as simple as Tiger Lily, planted in a suitable area, can reach second grade, with occasional third-grade White Tiger Lily. That's why a residence garden, for a student, can turn the tide of cultivation.
Conversely, food with little life energy is useless for martial cultivation. A poor-quality garden with mediocre water is sad.
"Losing the spirit water spring is worth crying, but alright," Jingyi said. "I believe this is an acceptable substitute."
"I take it no one else objects?" The clerk decided it was beneath him. "Please sign the paper with your spiritual signature."
"I object." Chen Xiuying said.
Xuan Di got so mad that Jingyi had to hug him from behind before he could slap the shit out of the little princess.
"Fuck you and fuck the throne you sit on!" Xuan Di swore.
"Shidi, please don't be mad. We have a proposal." Chen Guiying bowed. "Sir Clerk, there should be one mansion with four bedchambers close to a spring, right?"
"There is one. The spring is of lesser quality, though." The clerk said. "With four of you? Still a bit expensive but more affordable per person than the previous one."
"This humble Shimei hopes to nurture a good relationship with you two," Guiying said. "Right, Xiuying?"
Jingyi could tell that Xiuying was dying inside as she half-bowed. "This girl had eyes but couldn't see the mountain. Please forgive."
"Ahh, this is going to be a real pain." Xuan Di cringed.
What's worse than a prideful princess? A humiliated princess with an agenda! Even Jingyi wasn't dumb enough not to realize this. Xiuying wanted something from them.
And that. That would be a pain.
"No," Jingyi said. "Di-er want you to leave us alone. Unless he changes his mind, please forget about us."
"Fourth heir, Xuan Shidi, please reconsider."
Xuan, they used the name Xuan, therefore knowing the implication. Jingyi doesn't know the details. But most likely that the royal family has a tie with the Xuans. Especially the fact that they knew how Xuan Di became the fourth heir.
Otherwise, Xuan Di recognizing her like this would be weirder.
"Just the fourth heir and a branch family member, this character dare not be presumptuous." Xuan Di suddenly became polite again. "Invoking the Xuan's name, you better seek the second heir instead."
In other words, leave and find Xuan Lian. Xiuying looked like she almost lost it and grabbed Xuan Di.
"Presumptuous? You're being presumptuous! This Highness will support you in the heir competition!" Xiuying whispered.
"This servant is under your command." Xuan Di cupped his hand. His face was gleeful.
Jingyi snorted, then wordlessly did the same thing. Xuan Di is incredibly deceptive at times. Xiuying was baffled, while Guiying wondered if they made a mistake.
This young sword-formation prodigy, they don't know, was also a little devil.
Signing the document for four residents in one of the four-chambers residences, the four walked out. Jingyi was content, Xuan Di was laughing, Xiuying was still confused, and Guiying was disheartened.
"Shidi sure is merciless," Guiying said. "You're not greedy, but we're dancing on your palm."
"Not my fault you have such a naive Master." Xuan Di crossed his arms, arrogant. "Be thankful I am not greedy."
In exchange for secrecy, cohabitation, and other forms of support, Xuan Di asked for nothing but Xiuying's blessing in his race for clan succession. However, this is a powerful tool. Even compared to the Xuans, Xiuying's background is a step higher.
Befriending her like this is a huge benefit.
"...I am speechless." Xiuying was agape. "How it took so long for me to realize. I should have gone for Xuan Lian!"
"From now on, I will teach you the art of war." Xuan Di said. "Getting fooled by me, consider it a blessing."
"You say that, but you're also annoyed," Jingyi muttered.
"I was supposed to take my time and sort my plans now that we can halt the progression of my disease." Xuan Di shook his head. "Of course, I would be annoyed. We'll have to build all my ambition around this girl's whims."
Even if there was an opportunity, Xuan Di only took it out of spite! In fairness, Jingyi has to agree. That intense exam took a toll on their body. And now a princess is bugging them.
A mistake could cost him his aspiration and life!
"Speaking of which, Jingyi-Shimei, I've never heard of you before." Chen Guiying said. "Being a Xuan fiancee, naturally, should be big news."
"I'm just an adopted daughter of an old swordsman who happened to be Patriarch Yuan's friend. Naturally, the Xuans despised me for being a nobody." Jingyi said.
"Pppft, kidding. The Xuans despised me, period." Xuan Di said. "Their treatment of you, I'm afraid, is collateral at most."
"How could you two be so calm... being hated by your family like this?" Xiuying muttered.
"What is family? Is it your parents? Your siblings? Your cousins from aunts and uncles? Marriage exists to build a family, is it not?" Xuan Di rhetorically asked. "Those who despise me, to me, they're just an outsider."
"And they're strangers to me." Jingyi nodded. "As long as Patriarch Yuan gave his blessing, I'm afraid they can do nothing."
"For this reason, I'm afraid Jingyi is clueless about the background between the Xuans and the... ahem, Chen family." Xuan Di corrected himself. "I don't have the heart to divulge. Xiuyin-er can decide as she sees fit."
"I see." Chen Guiying mischievously smiled. For a moment, he looked more like a sister than a brother.
"Peh. I feel insulted but also honored. Patriarch Yuan, I'm afraid, is a complicated man like that. I both admire him and despise him for that reason."
"I believe most Xuans also have a similarly complicated view of him," Jingyi said. "But at sixty years old, already a Pseudo-core expert. No one is willing to contest his supremacy."
"Even prodigies at five academies, if indulgent, can also be trapped by their own ego. And the so-called talent became a millstone that weigh them down." Guiying hummed. "So many genii reach the Qi-condensation stage at sixteen or less. How many of them attained a Pseudo-core? Certainly more than the average. Yet still, it was never guaranteed."
In comparison, Xuan Yuan only became Qi-condensation cultivator at nineteen. Most people? Even actively practicing could only reach it in early adulthood.
"Luck is also a form of strength," Jingyi said. "Without meeting Xuan Di, I'm afraid my cultivation would still be messed up. Forget reaching Qi-condensation so quickly. I might be in physical danger."
"Indeed, opportunities do not knock twice." Xuan Di said. "Thanks to her and father-in-law, we made some breakthroughs to offset my body degradation."
Although Xuan Di is still far from fit, his body is no longer sickly thin. For this, he could only thank the Heavens.
"Ah... there is also that problem, huh." Xiuying frowned. "Xuan Tian, that bastard. Dare to show up in front of me? I'll twist his neck!"
Xuan Tian? Isn't that the name of Xuan Lian's younger brother?
"Originally, a marriage was arranged between me and him. However, after Xuan Di's incident, Patriarch Yuan came to my family and prostrated before us." Xiuying sadly recalled. "At that time, he begged for the annulment of the engagement because he felt his son was not moral enough."
It is strange. In most situations, a father would beg the opposite way, asking for the engagement to be preserved despite everything. Patriarch Yuan defied the norm.
"My father said Xuan Yuan is a man of absolute justice and worthy of respect. For this reason, my honored family gave Xuan Clan face and maintained good relationships." Xiuying remarked. "Nevertheless, the elders still give him a hard time, didn't they?"
"To a degree." Xuan Di nodded. "Is that the reason why you seek for me?"
"I want to support your revenge." Xiuying's face darkened. "Against that treacherous scum Xuan Tian who humiliated me by causing the marriage annulment."
Jingyi, for the first time ever, scrunched her face in fear and disbelief. Just how petty could Chen Xiuyin be?!
"Good! Good!" Xuan Di rubbed his hands, excited. "I believe this would be a fruitful relationship."
"Of course. This Higness had decided it would be one. Oho-ho-ho-ho!" Xiuying laughed.
Jingyi looked at Guiying, who was foaming in the mouth. Clan politics are way too messed up!
...
Notes
-Di is a suffix for little brother. The formal form is Shidi
-Mei is a suffix for little sister. The formal form is Shimei
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