Chapter 1842: Chapter 1869: Academy Succession Ceremony
Three days passed in the blink of an eye.
The overwhelming flyers from Yumi Academy rendered Li Xiaobai helpless. Originally, he wanted to stir things up and boost the momentum of Xiaobai Academy, but he directly chose to give up this time.
The Eight Desolates Domain pilgrimage, packed with people at Yumi Academy, was jam-packed.
Today is a big day. Although Yumi Academy usually hides its strengths, due to the presence of Yu Huan Shui, the academy unknowingly has an overlord status, although no one points it out.
Now Yu Huan Shui is passing his position, the new Chancellor is taking over the academy. Not only is he a brilliant literary figure, but he also invites other literary greats from various Star Domains, celebrating together. Such influential power was something cultivators never saw in Yu Huan Shui.
Perhaps in terms of strength and literary spirit, Chen Qingquan couldn’t match Yu Huan Shui, but due to this influential power, the usually solitary and independent Yumi Academy closely connects with masters from each star, which makes the academy’s prestige surpass its previous level.
No one dares to underestimate Chen Qingquan, with so many masters assisting, the academy’s overlord status is as solid as a rock overnight.
On the noisy street, only one dilapidated courtyard maintained its usual silence.
Inside, Yu Huan Shui opened the door and walked out, stretching lazily, enjoying the morning sunshine.
"Mr. Yu, finally you are out. What plans do you have? Feel free to explain, these days Yumi Academy is at its peak."
Li Xiaobai looked at Yu Huan Shui with a disgruntled tone.
"Ha-ha, today it will become clear, after today, for decades to come in the universe, there will only be one Great Grandmaster in the literature circle—myself."
"They try to drive me away, not realizing they are cutting off their own path. These people’s literary journey is up."
Yu Huan Shui, with hands clasped behind his back, was confident.
"Sir, have you been writing tirelessly these days?"
Li Xiaobai noticed a stack of rice paper covered with cloth on Yu Huan Shui’s desk, exuding mystery.
"Yes, I had the concept all along, finally completed today."
"All thanks to you, young brother, for inspiring me."
"You truly are destined, as long as I stay close to you, countless creative materials flood in."
Yu Huan Shui chuckled, eyes filled with excitement.
In recent days, he has compiled his adventures with Li Xiaobai into a book, creating it all in one go. Not daring to claim it’s a masterpiece, but it certainly is a fine work.
He never writes essays or short stories, nor does he use artworks to create alternatives. The path he chooses in the literature circle is always the most challenging one—the long form, very long form, extremely long form, only complete stories, with poignant ups and downs, are worthy of the word "literature."
The book need not impose sentiments on others, but should allow readers to develop their own understanding after reading. This is why he has long been respected and loved.
Because he neither teaches nor imposes his thoughts into others’ minds, everyone who has come to enlightenment through reading his works has done so by combining their own understanding and keeping their feet on the ground.
"Sure thing, hopefully, we’ll have more chances to collaborate in the future. Remember to share some of the royalty fees with me."
Li Xiaobai has no feelings towards writing books, as the literary spirit of Heavenly Dao feels too elusive and intangible. In comparison, he still seeks power in front of him.
Visible, tangible, controllable.
"Shall we head to Yumi Academy?"
"No need, the crowd will take us by surprise."
...
At the same time.
On the other side.
Yumi Academy.
Training Grounds.
In a matter of days, this place was expanded greatly, all thanks to the handiwork of the seniors.
The humble straw structures were transformed, with jade-tiled houses and rare mineral roads built, grand and magnificent.
As they say, this embodies the strength of a force; the environment shapes people, and a good environment can boost the confidence of scholars, nurturing a sense of belonging.
Initially, Chen Qingquan doubted, but upon seeing the remodeled scenery, he was immensely pleased, thinking how it should have been like this all along—a sense of authority from the moment he walked in, preventing any form of disdain.
On this day, the place was packed with guests. He truly experienced the benefits of being the Chancellor.
This complements his stature as a scholar.
In the venue, he sat in a high position, flanked by literary greats from various stars, with various factions sitting behind them in order.
This was not only a gathering but also a trial—those who came were indeed to offer blessings, but also to scrutinize whether this new Chancellor has the capability to lead scholars. If he underperforms, fails to hold command, the prestigious Yumi Academy title would be ruined.
"Thank you all for coming from afar, and I’m grateful to you all."
"I’m not talented and lack distinguished qualifications, yet gaining my mentor’s approval and teachings fills me with gratitude. Receiving blessings from heroes and elites also leaves me overwhelmed. Today’s guests are here, regardless of your status, high or low, regardless of age or seniority, I will provide each of you with a piece of Enlightenment Tea Leaves, as a gesture of goodwill."
"Please, do not disdain my humble offering."
Chen Qingquan stood up, clasping his fists, and spoke loudly.
Though his voice was gentle, it carried a terrifying penetrative force, allowing every cultivator present to hear him clearly.
This alone was enough to command respect from most.
"Chancellor Chen is generous, on behalf of the sect disciples, I thank you for your great gift!"
In the crowd, a cultivator responded loudly, initiating a response that prompted sect leaders and sect masters to express their gratitude one after another.
Although Enlightenment Tea Leaves weren’t particularly precious or luxurious, they were definitely good items, and offering one piece to everyone present demonstrated impressive generosity and resolve.
The older literary figures, including Old Goat, were ready to stand and speak courteous words, but were interrupted by a cold voice.
"Brother Qingquan, we’re not here to listen to your boasting. We are scholars, speak bluntly, I hope you can bear it. You are replacing Mr. Yu, and your primary task is to win the crowd. All the friends have gathered here for this very reason."
"Today, if you can command us, I am willing to obey. But if there’s the slightest discrepancy, I will leave immediately."
Under the stage, a youth in white with a feather fan lightly waved, his words sharp.
Upon hearing this, the whole place fell silent. This was indeed the main event—gift-giving and public speaking were mere preliminaries. To be a leader among scholars, one must possess an unparalleled quality that was solely literary talent.
The older generation heard this, slowly sat back down, understanding this issue cannot be avoided and must be confronted immediately.
Chen Qingquan’s smile froze for a second: "I remember you are Li Shuwen from the first battlefield."
The youth in white nodded: "Correct."
"A leading figure of the younger generation in literature, I’ve long admired your name."
"To command the venue, proving one’s abilities, of course, must rely on literature. I understand this very clearly."
Chen Qingquan carefully selected his words, unwilling to reveal his final card right away. In his plan, he aimed to gradually escalate, layer upon layer, stirring everyone’s emotions until his new outstanding work reached its climax, capturing hearts in a single stroke.
"Then Chancellor Chen should know, the Imperial Abdication Painting has already been unveiled, losing its allure. This time, you must present works surpassing it to potentially earn our sincere approval."
Li Shuwen showed no leniency, his words as sharp as knives.
"Naturally, very well, since you wish to see, I ask you all to correct me!"