377 - Rebirth of a Star: Another Day, Another Drama

Chapter 377: A Kindred Spirit? The alliance between the two parties didn’t last long before it crumbled completely. Finally, both individuals turned their eyes towards Ye Ling Long. "My dear disciple, surely you're not planning to join the Alchemy Institute, right?" Zou Guan Qing knew his disciple was currently in the Array Institute. Despite that, switching institutes was always a possibility, and he remembered that his disciple initially intended to apply to the Alchemy Institute. "Ye Ling Long, the Alchemy Institute is where you truly belong," Master Hai chimed in. Everyone then looked eagerly at Ye Ling Long, curious about which institute this highly sought-after genius would ultimately choose. Even the voice of Principal Qiu Ze Yuan joined the fray, full of mischief: "Well, if you don’t want to choose either, the Swordplay Institute is always an option." Zou Guan Qing protested, "Principal Qiu, stop stirring things up. She's my newly accepted disciple." In the end, Ye Ling Long decided to remain with the Array Institute. Her initial choice for the Alchemy Institute was simply due to its success probability, but with the Dan Tower in her possession, she wasn't quite as enthusiastic about the Alchemy Institute's teachings. Conversely, the Array Institute offered the perfect avenue to deepen her studies in formations. Master Hai felt a pang of disappointment but quickly masked it with a composed expression, handing over a small jade slip. "Since you’ve decided against joining my Alchemy Institute, I respect your decision. Here are my insights and experiences in alchemy. Perhaps this might encourage you to reconsider next time a switch is possible." For Ye Ling Long, these insights from an accomplished alchemist were invaluable treasures that could save her from many detours in her journey. However, out of respect, she glanced at Zou Guan Qing for his opinion, as he was her mentor in name. Seeing his disciple seek his counsel, Zou Guan Qing felt a surge of pride. He smugly snatched the jade slip from Master Hai's hand and placed it in Ye Ling Long's: "Never decline what’s freely given—it’s compensation from Master Hai, after all." "After all, if not for the mix-up caused by the Alchemy Institute, your registration info wouldn’t have been altered," Master Hai remarked dryly. "If it wasn’t changed, how would you have benefited?" Zou Guan Qing, undeterred, extended his hand expectantly towards Master Hai. "Consider that as your compensation. Now, how about a welcoming gift?" Master Hai accused, "You’re shameless," but nonetheless, he retrieved a large alchemy cauldron from his storage space, placing it heavily on the ground. The smell of medicine wafted through the air, hinting at countless potions crafted within. The cauldron's ancient, weighty appearance spoke of its exceptional quality. As Master Hai traced his fingers over the cauldron’s engravings, nostalgia flickered in his eyes. "This cauldron accompanied me for a long time. It’s yours now." Zou Guan Qing’s eyes gleamed. "Dear disciple, accept it promptly; it’s invaluable for alchemy. At last, Master Hai has done something worthwhile today." Ye Ling Long expressed her gratitude and tucked the cauldron away with contentment. Although she owned many treasures, some were simply too significant to reveal publicly; both the Dan Tower and the Qian Jun Sword had to remain secret. Her current strength wasn’t enough to protect such artifacts openly. Initially, she planned to acquire a cauldron, but now there was no need. After thanking everyone, Zou Guan Qing intended to escort his disciple away to avoid further attention. Once the excitement settled, everyone dispersed. Returning to the Array Institute, Zou Guan Qing showed Ye Ling Long around. It had been over ten days since the semester began. Everyone was curious about Ye Ling Long, the renowned individual fiercely recruited by both the Dan Book Court and the Array Institute. Upon entering the Array Institute with Zou Guan Qing, she felt everyone’s gaze upon her. Yet, there was no discomfort for Ye Ling Long as she sensed only pure curiosity without malice in those looks. Guiding her to a quaint courtyard, Zou Guan Qing beamed warmly, "This is your courtyard, Little Ling Long. I specifically arranged this for you. It’s peaceful, perfect for studying formations." Ye Ling Long was pleased with the serene courtyard. She knew it was specially arranged by her master, for it was improbable for a newcomer like her to have a private courtyard otherwise. Sincerely grateful, she thanked him and discussed formations with Zou Guan Qing. Her insights from hours spent in the library impressed him greatly. Zou Guan Qing was elated to have such a talented disciple and silently thanked the situation that blessed him. After successfully setting up a profound formation, Zou Guan Qing finally allowed Ye Ling Long her freedom. Watching him leave boastingly, Ye Ling Long chuckled, closed the courtyard gate, and settled in. Evening was setting in when she received Feng Li’s message: he would be a bit late. After all, having conquered the toughest trial at the Body Cultivation Institute, he had gained special attention there. Ye Ling Long shifted her spirits and entered her personal space. While in the library, wary of being watched, she refrained from examining this space—even with her consciousness. Upon entering, she found two small figures relaxing on a leaf of a massive spirit herb, relishing royal jelly—none other than the Ginseng Baby and the Tower Spirit. In mid-air sat Qian Jun, cross-legged, also holding a jar of royal jelly. Nearby, Swarming Swallow Bees buzzed around a flower patch exclusively created by the Ginseng Baby. The tranquility warmed Ye Ling Long’s heart. Once they noticed her arrival, the Swarming Swallow Bees surrounded her, and the Ginseng Baby and Tower Spirit approached. After chatting briefly about recent events, Ye Ling Long produced a book she retrieved from the library. Since absorbing her blood, the book had shed its dull appearance, now bearing a golden, glowing formation character. Peeking from her shoulder, the Tower Spirit remarked, "I seem to sense the presence of a kindred spirit within this book!"