C17 Becoming Friends

Yang Zhangzhen rose from his chair, straightened his attire, clasped his hands together, rested his forehead on the back of his left hand, and gave Xia Yi a deep bow.

Xia Yi was taken aback by such a grand gesture. Yang Zhangzhen, a man approaching fifty, was bowing to someone barely in his twenties—a move that could be seen as diminishing his own stature in the eyes of society.

The Kisal Dynasty's people held their pride and dignity in high regard, never engaging in acts that could be seen as humiliating, even in private. Yet here was Yang Zhangzhen, paying a visit and offering such a profound bow, showing an immense respect for Xia Yi.

Considering the true events at the Spirit Gathering Tower, where Xia Yi had indeed saved Yang Zhangzhen's life, such a respectful bow was warranted. However, Xia Yi had no intention of making the details public, which made it difficult for him to outwardly accept such a significant gesture.

"Teacher Yang, what brings on such formality?" Xia Yi quickly reached out to assist Yang Zhangzhen to his feet.

Once upright, Yang Zhangzhen explained his reasons for such a display of gratitude. "My grandson is one of your students, Teacher Xia. He shared with me the lessons you taught on 'cultivating virtue and the path of a gentleman,' which greatly inspired me. I volunteered to enter the Spirit Gathering Tower to cultivate further, and indeed, my strength has improved, allowing me to endure longer in the fight against the 'evil spirit.' I owe my rescue to you, and it's only right that I come to thank you in person."

Xia Yi was momentarily at a loss for words. The teachings he had shared in class, meant as guidance for the young, had unexpectedly enlightened others as well.

With a chuckle, Xia Yi urged Yang Zhangzhen to take a seat, then said with a mix of amusement and disbelief, "To say that I saved your life isn't quite accurate. Had it not been for me, you wouldn't have gone to the Spirit Gathering Tower, and thus, you wouldn't have faced the 'evil spirit.' I'm just relieved you don't think I 'harmed' you instead. But to say that I saved you? That's quite the statement."

Xia Yi found the situation amusing and didn't take it seriously. However, Yang Zhangzhen approached the matter with utmost seriousness, his expression reflecting his grave demeanor.

"Had it not been for Teacher Xia's insightful words, I can't imagine how long it would have taken me to advance my cultivation. I must express my gratitude to Teacher Xia!"

The Kisal Dynasty held martial prowess in high esteem, which left a strong impression on Xia Yi.

Realizing he lacked a Martial Spirit and was without a spirit seed, Xia Yi understood that to thrive in the Kisal Dynasty, he would need to lean on external support even more. Yang Zhangzhen seemed like an excellent ally.

Yang Zhangzhen possessed both strength and a high standing within the Dragonflight Cloister, and he was also well-regarded in the Kisal Dynasty. Cultivating a friendship with him could be incredibly beneficial for Xia Yi.

With this in mind, Xia Yi shifted from his previous nonchalance to genuinely seeking a rapport with Yang Zhangzhen.

Their connection blossomed, and despite a significant age difference, they enjoyed each other's company immensely, sharing many joyful conversations.

As their relationship grew, Yang Zhangzhen proactively inquired about Xia Yi's quest for a Martial Spirit.

Xia Yi's face fell slightly as he replied, "I haven't found the right Martial Spirit, but I understand that these things can't be forced."

Having cultivated for decades, Yang Zhangzhen had witnessed similar struggles and nodded in agreement.

"Now that you're a teacher at our Dragonflight Cloister, you'll have plenty of opportunities to enter the Spirit Gathering Tower. Don't lose hope—you're bound to find a Martial Spirit that's meant for you," Yang Zhangzhen offered reassuringly.

Regrettably, the consolation did little to lift Xia Yi's spirits. He pondered the fate of the previous owner of his body, from whom the heavenly realm's Martial Spirit had departed. He could sense Martial Spirits, yet none would inhabit him. Xia Yi couldn't shake the feeling that there might be an issue with his body—why else would he be so unlucky?

Noticing Xia Yi's continued despondency, Yang Zhangzhen bit his lip and pressed on with his encouragement.

"Don't fret. I have some significant news for you—just keep it to yourself. The fierce spirit on the fifth floor of the Spirit Gathering Tower has vanished, and the cloister is planning to construct a sixth floor above it! If we manage to build a sixth-tier Spirit Gathering Tower, your chances of obtaining a Martial Spirit will significantly increase!"

As Yang Zhangzhen spoke, there was a palpable tension in his demeanor. He spoke in hushed tones, making it clear that the matter was confidential within the academy.

Xia Yi was moved. It was evident that Yang Zhangzhen trusted him enough to share this information, despite the risks involved.

Xia Yi led a simple life. He believed in treating those who were kind to him even better and those who wronged him, worse.

"Mr. Yang, rest assured, I absolutely won't tell a soul about this!" Xia Yi promised earnestly.

Yang Zhangzhen was pleased with Xia Yi's response. He smiled, nodded, and gave Xia Yi a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "I trust you. You're a teacher here, and this information will only benefit you, not harm you. I'm confident you'll keep it to yourself."

Before departing, Yang Zhangzhen gestured towards the gifts on the desk, explaining, "Here are two remedies. The first is the Spirit Increasing Pill, which will help you recover swiftly. The second is the Spirit Cleansing Powder. Pay special attention to this one. Before your next visit to the Spirit Gathering Tower, take it in advance. It will enhance your allure to the Martial Spirit and boost the likelihood of it bonding with you."

Hearing about the Spirit Cleansing Powder, Xia Yi's expression turned rather peculiar.

Enhance my allure to the Martial Spirit? I'm in the prime of my youth and strength; I don't need such things!

"Thank you for the gift, Brother Yang!" Xia Yi expressed his thanks with a traditional gesture of respect.

Observing the promising Xia Yi, Yang Zhangzhen reflected on his past glories and felt a wave of sentiment.

"Xia Yi, it's natural to feel resentful towards fate, but never lose hope. I believe you can work another 'miracle' just as you have before. If you don't give up, there's always a chance; but if you do, the opportunity is lost forever."

Though it may sound cliché, Yang Zhangzhen's genuine concern touched Xia Yi deeply. He was the second person to show such heartfelt kindness since Xia Yi's arrival in Foglaostein.

It was only after enduring hardships that Xia Yi truly appreciated the preciousness of benevolence.

After seeing Yang Zhangzhen off, Xia Ye returned. Xia Yi instructed her to set aside the medicinal herbs sent by Hua Shi for the moment and to first take the pills provided by Yang Zhangzhen.

Xia Ye hesitantly reminded him, "Brother, Hua Shi was very clear that the medication must not be interrupted. It has to be taken as prescribed, or it could be harmful to your health."

The image of Hua Shi, with his ethereal demeanor, came to Xia Yi's mind. Considering that Hua Shi was the preeminent physician at the Dragonflight Cloister, Xia Yi paused, then scratching his chin, he made a decision.

"If the medicine shouldn't be interrupted, then I'll take both at the same time."

Since both are for healing, combining them should enhance the overall effect.