Zhendan Academy had been established by the authorities.
In every super city, it possessed immense authority.
At critical junctures, it could mobilize the stationed defense forces to curb escalating situations.
For instance, if someone violated the Awakened Regulations, they could take action immediately.
Just like the figures in military uniform beside Zheng Wenyuan, they were effectively law enforcers who protected citizens and maintained order.
Backed by official authority, they not only possessed Awakened of their own, but could also deploy even more powerful thermal weapons.
Furthermore, Zhendan Academy could even demand the cooperation of major factions.
And just now, someone had killed a person within the boundaries of Chang'an.
Having received the news, Zhendan Academy had rushed over immediately.
Lu Yuan had already anticipated this. Looking toward Dean Zheng and the others representing the official authorities, he said softly, "Have you come to hold me accountable?"
His voice was calm, seemingly indifferent. Even knowing this would happen, he would have done the exact same thing.
As he had said before: when certain people did things they should not have done, they had to pay the price.
Yet to the surrounding crowd, those words sounded exceptionally forceful—even arrogant.
People from Zhendan Academy and the military were right here.
How could he dare act this way? Did he truly feel no fear at all?
He had killed the Southern Sovereign, offended Longevity Genetics, and now this.
Many felt he had gone too far.
Still, others believed that judging from the battle just now, Lu Yuan certainly possessed the capital to act like this.
Slaying the Southern Sovereign proved he possessed strength on par with the Five Great Sovereigns—or even greater, considering the fight had been an overwhelming curb-stomp from start to finish.
Even so, offending Zhendan Academy was practically putting himself in opposition to the authorities.
The Ice Fairy could not help but furrow her brow, taking a step forward to intervene.
She understood the situation thoroughly.
It truly was the Southern Sovereign and his brother who had provoked Lu Yuan first and tried to kill him; they simply lacked the strength and ended up being killed instead.
"I already secretly messaged Dean Zheng about the situation. Stay quiet. Beidou Biology needs to maintain its external independence," the middle-aged man beside her spoke up, stopping her.
Beidou Biology also had an official background, though few knew it, as they had a different mission.
If the Ice Fairy spoke, it might cause unnecessary trouble.
He had already explained everything.
How to proceed ultimately rested on Dean Zheng.
Hearing this, she nodded and stood in place, waiting.
At this moment, everyone fell silent.
Killing the Southern Sovereign and offending Longevity Genetics were tremendous matters.
Now that Zhendan Academy had appeared on behalf of the authorities, another massive battle might break out.
The Awakened Regulations had been promulgated long ago and strictly enforced. Everyone wondered what punishment Lu Yuan would receive. If he refused to accept it, would another fierce battle erupt?
In short, everyone was on edge, sensing a disaster looming.
"Ahem..."
Hearing Lu Yuan's words, Dean Zheng gave a dry cough.
He glanced at the Southern Sovereign's corpse not far away, pondered for a moment, and said, "Well, the place where you struck wasn't inside the city proper. It doesn't count as violating the Awakened Regulations—merely a minor irregularity that does no real harm. Naturally, we won't hold you culpable."
With that, he looked toward the uniformed man beside him. "Wouldn't you agree, Commander-in-Chief Xu?"
That uniformed man was the Commander-in-Chief of the Chang'an Defense Army.
Controlling all troops stationed in the city, he held immense power and status, and was himself an Awakened.
In fact, each of the five super cities had a Defense Army adapted from the armed forces of the old era.
Their duty was to safeguard the populace, combat beast tides, and enforce the Awakened Regulations.
Under normal circumstances, they rarely mobilized, but whenever they did, it signaled a major incident.
Upon hearing Dean Zheng's words, Commander-in-Chief Xu stroked his chin before nodding. "Dean Zheng is correct."
The moment those words were spoken, everyone present was stunned.
The spot where Lu Yuan had killed the man was clearly within the demarcated boundaries of Chang'an!
How could they dismiss it with a single sentence and declare right to everyone's faces that it was merely a minor irregularity?
This... this... this...
Lu Yuan was somewhat surprised as well, but quickly replied, "Thank you."
He knew this was Zhendan Academy extending an olive branch on behalf of the authorities, seeking to smooth over the incident.
Otherwise, they would never have made such remarks before everyone. It was simply because his performance had been too dazzling.
With the sudden mutations and complex situation, compounded by beasts wreaking havoc everywhere, powerful figures willing to take action were desperately needed.
Since they had already shown goodwill, Lu Yuan had no reason to brush off their courtesy.
"Good."
Hearing that, Dean Zheng nodded and continued, "Then that settles the matter. However... I wonder if Mr. Lu might accompany me to the academy? There are some things I would like to explain to you."
His tone was sincere. Perhaps he had come with this intention from the very start, seeking to win Lu Yuan over.
Although Zhendan Academy had official backing and could mobilize abundant resources, there were still major factions outside.
To keep the country's increasingly chaotic situation under control, much work had to be done.
The foremost issue was talent.
In Dean Zheng's eyes, Lu Yuan was an excellent candidate. If they could cooperate, it would be a tremendous boon.
As for Lu Yuan thoroughly offending Longevity Genetics and the Wuzhou Group... he didn't care. Both factions had been acting out of line lately, and the authorities had already been looking for an opportunity to rein them in. Protecting Lu Yuan served to signal their stance clearly.
"Certainly."
After brief consideration, Lu Yuan agreed.
He had nothing pressing to do at the moment anyway.
Besides, since Dean Zheng had chosen to overlook the Awakened Regulations for his sake, making a trip was no trouble.
"Thank you."
Dean Zheng smiled, quite pleased.
After exchanging a few words with Commander-in-Chief Xu, the latter departed with his troops.
Dean Zheng then gestured for Lu Yuan to follow, inviting him to enter the city together.
As for the Southern Sovereign's body, someone would naturally come to collect it later.
"It... it just ended like that?"
"But Lu Yuan clearly violated the Awakened Regulations! No punishment at all?"
"Punishment? Didn't you see his strength? He killed the Southern Sovereign on the spot! How could they punish him?"
"The so-called laws and rules aren't set in stone; they depend on who you are. Lu Yuan is strong enough to ignore some of them."
"Yeah. If it were any of us, we'd definitely be doomed. But his strength speaks for itself. If you or I had that kind of power, it would be the exact same."
"I foresee a changing of the guard among the Five Great Sovereigns. Lu Yuan will replace one of them—maybe even become number one."
"Bullshit, as if that needs saying! Who doesn't know that by now?"
The onlookers were dumbfounded by how easily the matter had been resolved.
They had expected another grand clash, perhaps even sanctions against Lu Yuan.
Yet who could have imagined that a killing would simply be ignored—and the victim was a prominent figure like the Southern Sovereign!
A single dismissive sentence, and the incident was over.
Some were disgruntled, finding it unfair.
Yet what could they do?
In the New Era, power reigned supreme; the strong stood above all.
Laws and rules could not bind everyone. When one was strong enough, one could disregard them.
The strong had their privileges!
There was no helping it; that was simply the way of the world, fairness aside.
The Awakened present understood this truth.
In the end, they let it go.
At the same time, they were certain that Lu Yuan would become one of the new Five Great Sovereigns, standing at the pinnacle of the Awakened hierarchy and renowned throughout the land.
A new star was rising, perhaps even outshining the other four.
"I wonder if Dean Zheng can secure a partnership with Mr. Lu."
Watching Lu Yuan's departing figure, the Ice Fairy wore a contemplative expression.
Beidou Biology's attempt to recruit him had ended in temporary failure, but if Zhendan Academy could succeed, their goal would still be partially achieved.
"We'll see. I don't think Mr. Lu is someone who can be easily swayed. He might not care about whatever Dean Zheng offers," the middle-aged man said with a smile. Though he had interacted with Lu Yuan only once, the impression left on him was profound.
A man like this would not be bound by rules; he acted as he pleased and would never be ordered about.
Yet the more someone was like that, the greater their potential to become truly supreme.
"Indeed. But..."
The Ice Fairy nodded, then added, "Longevity Genetics certainly won't let this go."
"They've crossed the line too many times recently, trying to become the absolute overlord of Shencheng. They need a lesson." The middle-aged man looked grim. While the Wang family of Longevity Genetics cooperated with the authorities, they often overstepped their bounds.
The higher-ups were deeply dissatisfied and had long contemplated imposing restrictions.
Although Lu Yuan's actions today had exceeded his expectations, they might not be a bad thing.
If their ambitions grew too large and threatened national stability, they could not be left unchecked.
And Zhendan Academy's olive branch to Lu Yuan—was that not also a subtle warning to Longevity Genetics?
"Sigh. With the global mutation, the New Era's situation is tumultuous, showing clear signs of rival powers rising together. Powerful Awakened will only become more numerous. It's time for me to evolve again and increase my strength," the Ice Fairy said, then suddenly asked, "What stage of evolution do you think Lu Yuan has reached?"
"At least Awakening. He might even have touched upon that realm."
The middle-aged man pondered before answering, though he could not say for sure.
"The Shackle Realm?"
The Ice Fairy lowered her head upon hearing this. "That evolutionary stage was only defined not long ago..."
***
Zhendan Academy was located at the heart of Chang'an.
Yet its architectural style did not resemble modern high-rises.
Instead, it possessed an antique elegance reminiscent of ancient China's Tang and Song dynasties, with rockeries, flowing waters, carved beams, and painted pillars exuding aesthetic charm.
The campus was divided into several sectors: teaching zones, cultivation zones, martial arts arenas, and living quarters, all arranged with great order.
To attract talent and nurture Awakened for the authorities, the academy possessed a complete training system and enjoyed preferential resource allocation.
There were many students—over ten thousand at least—and a considerable number had embarked on the evolutionary path.
In the future, these students would all serve to maintain the country's stability.
As Lu Yuan stepped into Zhendan Academy, Dean Zheng introduced that the various branches had recently taken in a vast number of talents—some teachers, some students. Before long, they would form a formidable combat force.
Furthermore, all of them would receive the protection of the academy and the authorities.
Regarding this, Lu Yuan naturally understood what Dean Zheng was implying.
Soon, the two arrived inside a building at the academy's core.
Patrols from the Defense Army guarded the surroundings, showing just how much importance Dean Zheng attached to this meeting.
"Mr. Lu, having invited you to the academy, I imagine you already have a general idea of why. In that case, I won't waste words," Dean Zheng said directly after inviting Lu Yuan to take a seat. "The domestic situation is grim, and major factions all harbor ambitions, but none of that is what matters most.
"What matters is that major cities across the country are currently suffering attacks from mutated beasts. Shuntian, the Snow Region, and others have experienced beast tides of varying severity.
"Recently, we also detected abnormal movements among mutated beasts in the Qinling region. Their target might very well be Chang'an."
He cut straight to the chase, knowing there was no need to beat around the bush with a discerning person.
Dean Zheng looked at Lu Yuan with a solemn gaze.
He had originally thought Lu Yuan relied mostly on that divine sword, but now it was clear that the man's own strength was formidable.
Chang'an's defense system was not yet fully established. If mutated beasts staged an uprising, the pressure would be immense.
If such a powerhouse joined their side and was willing to lend a hand, it would significantly improve the situation.
Hearing this, Lu Yuan nodded.
He was well aware of this, but kept silent, waiting for the rest.
"Therefore, I hope Mr. Lu can cooperate with Zhendan Academy. Should a beast tide strike, we would appreciate it if you could assist as appropriate. Naturally, we will demonstrate our sincerity," Zheng Wenyuan continued after brief contemplation.
"The powers behind Longevity Genetics and the Wuzhou Group belong to descendants of ancient families who possess special bloodlines, and their latent potential is gradually being unlocked.
"I believe they might cause trouble for Mr. Lu in the future, but on behalf of Zhendan Academy, I can guarantee that we will stand behind you no matter when."
Zheng Wenyuan's tone was exceptionally sincere.
He valued Lu Yuan's strength, yet did not believe Lu Yuan alone could withstand two massive factions.
After all, he knew full well how profound the foundations of the Wang and Zhou families were, backed by inheritances left by their ancestors.
In particular, certain figures among them had directly experienced bloodline atavism and were destined to become formidable experts.
Thus, Zheng Wenyuan made his stance clear, pledging Zhendan Academy's support.
In a sense, his stance represented that of the authorities.
"I understand everything you've said, Dean Zheng."
Lu Yuan merely smiled, his expression unfazed. "Yet however profound the Zhou and Wang families' foundations may be, to me, they are nothing more than a passing breeze and frost."
Admittedly, those two factions were mysterious, and as time passed and mutations progressed, they would bare their true fangs.
However, he was no longer who he had once been. He possessed sufficient strength and confidence to face anything.
This time, it was Dean Zheng's turn to be stunned.
*Nothing more than a passing breeze and frost?*
Was that arrogant?
Enormously!
In the entire country, no one would dare utter such words.
Yet he could see that Lu Yuan possessed genuine confidence; it was not a facade.
For a moment, Dean Zheng could not help but hold him in even higher esteem. Perhaps the man possessed even greater backing or trump cards.
Where did it come from?
He did not know.
Nor did he intend to pry, as that would be offensive.
Having interacted with Lu Yuan, Dean Zheng now had a good grasp of his character: resolute and formidable.
Yet when met with goodwill, Lu Yuan put on no airs. If someone showed him respect, he would return it in kind.
With these thoughts in mind, Dean Zheng smiled, letting the bold claim pass, and continued, "Of course, to show Zhendan Academy's sincerity, we have also prepared a few items for you, Mr. Lu."
With that, he clapped his hands.
Since it was a cooperation, certain material offerings were indispensable, and he had come prepared.
Before long, Zhu Qingyu appeared carrying an exquisite box.
She walked up to Lu Yuan with a peculiar expression, then opened the box.
Lu Yuan had not paid it much heed at first.
Soon, however, a shimmering radiance and a pure, powerful surge of energy radiated from within, catching him by surprise.
Inside the box lay a spiritual fruit the size of a fist.
It was crimson throughout, bearing a profound, intricate pattern that marked its extraordinary nature.
The shimmering radiance from a moment ago had emanated from this very fruit.
"This was obtained by Zhendan Academy from a famous mountain. It is called the Crouching Dragon Scarlet Fruit, nurtured by an earth-core dragon vein, and exceptionally rare. If you don't mind, Mr. Lu, please take it," Dean Zheng said at the opportune moment, a smile in his eyes alongside a trace of heartache.
To obtain the Crouching Dragon Scarlet Fruit, Zhendan Academy had paid a heavy price.
Only three had ever been harvested in total.
It was a divine-grade natural treasure.
He had formally requisitioned it with the original intent of saving it for an outstanding student in the future.
Yet on second thought, if it could secure cooperation with Lu Yuan—ensuring he would lend a hand when Chang'an faced a beast tide—it would be well worth it.
For in Dean Zheng's eyes, this man possessed even greater potential than the Northern Emperor.
*It really is a Crouching Dragon Scarlet Fruit.*
Looking at the spiritual fruit before him, Lu Yuan recognized it immediately.
He had learned about this item in his past life; it was born from the dragon veins deep within the earth's core.
In terms of value, it far exceeded the Nine-Leaf Golden Rhyme. Consuming it not only allowed one to become an Awakened directly, but also planted a dragon vein within the body, conferring boundless potential. Out in the open world, it would inevitably trigger fierce struggles among major factions.
Even for him at present, it held great utility.
The Ancestral Dragon Breathing Method absorbed the energetic veins of heaven and earth, and consuming this Crouching Dragon Scarlet Fruit would enhance its effects even further.
It could even allow him to open his second and third grotto-heavens in one go, manifesting true gods within them.
He had not expected Zhendan Academy to bring out such a treasure just to win him over; they had truly bled for this.
However, after brief contemplation, Lu Yuan shook his head. "I am someone who values freedom and dislikes being bound."
Accepting the gift meant agreeing to cooperate. While it might carry no immediate disadvantage, he would be obligated to take action when needed. He was unwilling to be driven by others, so despite his interest, he declined.
Across from him, Zhu Qingyu was momentarily stunned by his response.
This was a Crouching Dragon Scarlet Fruit!
Yet he had refused without much hesitation!
One had to know that her senior, the Northern Emperor, had yearned for this item for a very long time.
Dean Zheng was somewhat surprised as well, but a smile instantly surfaced on his face. "Rest assured, Mr. Lu. There are no ulterior motives behind this gift. It is purely because Zhendan Academy cherishes talent. You may encounter many troubles in the future, Mr. Lu, but with the Crouching Dragon Scarlet Fruit, your evolutionary path might prove much smoother. Therefore, please accept it."
Having said that, he did not forget to shoot Zhu Qingyu a meaningful glance.
Understanding immediately, she offered a sweet smile, closed the box, placed it directly into Lu Yuan's hands, and stepped back behind Dean Zheng.
Seeing this, Lu Yuan paused for a moment before an amused smile appeared on his face. "No ulterior motives at all? Are you serious, Dean Zheng?"
"Completely serious! Naturally! My word is my bond!"
Dean Zheng spoke with righteous conviction, without the slightest hesitation, appearing just as he had claimed—acting out of pure appreciation for talent.
Yet Zhu Qingyu clearly saw her dean's hands trembling.
"Very well."
Lu Yuan stood up. Adopting the mindset that there was no reason to turn down something free, he smiled and nodded. "Then thank you for your kind intentions, Dean Zheng."
"Think nothing of it, think nothing of it," Dean Zheng replied. "By the way, Mr. Lu, you probably don't have a place to stay in the city yet, do you? If you have nothing else to attend to, you can temporarily stay at the academy. I will have everything arranged."
"Dean Zheng, you truly are a good man."
Lu Yuan pondered for a moment. He had originally planned to collect some interest from Longevity Genetics before leaving.
Now that he had the Crouching Dragon Scarlet Fruit, he had planned to find a place to consume it before moving on.
He hadn't expected Dean Zheng to arrange everything so thoroughly.
Looking at the other man, he said again, "Dean Zheng, you are a good man."
"Don't mention it, don't mention it."
Dean Zheng waved his hand, then called someone over to lead Lu Yuan to his temporary quarters.
Once it was all done, looking at the box that had just been carried away, Dean Zheng felt a sudden wave of dizziness. He couldn't help but say, "Qingyu, help... help hold me up."
Chapter 54