Immortal Dynasty Hounds

Chapter 6 The Amusing People Only Move, They Don't Disappear
“Brother, joining the academy now is really not a good choice for you. Joining the academy now will put you in a major decision. And since I recommended you for the academy, your position is even more awkward. Tianjian will find it hard to trust you, and even if he does, you will face difficulties. Many people can't deal with Tianjian, but dealing with you is a piece of cake.”

Kong Ningyuan's reminder this time was rather blatant.

However, even if Kong Ningyuan hadn't reminded him, Lian Shanxin would have realized these things.

Clearly, Kong Ningyuan belongs to the Jiangzhou aristocratic family and the former Bailudong Academy, and stands on the opposite side of "Jiutian".

Lian Shanxin's desire to gain the favor of "Heavenly Sword" clearly indicates his intention to join the "Nine Heavens" camp.

In this way, they will be on opposite sides. If Kong Ningyuan helps him, it's tantamount to aiding the enemy.

Lian Shanxin had a different opinion: "Brother Kong, things are not simply one thing and the other. I've read historical records and discovered that the reason those aristocratic families have been able to survive for a thousand years is because they would place different stakes on different camps. If I join 'Nine Heavens,' it's equivalent to you forming a good relationship with 'Nine Heavens.' If you form a good relationship with 'Nine Heavens,' it's equivalent to the Kong family forming a good relationship with 'Nine Heavens.' No matter who wins, the Kong family will not lose in the end."

Kong Ningyuan's eyes once again revealed admiration: "Brother, you are good at studying, but the risks I mentioned are not unfounded."

"I know, but how could I possibly get the wealth and glory that I could obtain without working hard?"

Lian Shanxin gave a self-deprecating laugh, and the two stopped discussing the topic.

Although Kong Ningyuan came from a prominent family, he was also capable of putting himself in others' shoes. Lian Shanxin's background certainly prevented him from having the same sense of ease; seizing any opportunity and fighting for it was Lian Shanxin's only way out.

Kong Ningyuan simply said, "I will do my best to protect my brother's safety."

Lian Shanxin also said seriously, "I don't need to do anything. As long as I join 'Nine Heavens,' everyone will know that I was recommended by Brother Kong."

The two looked at each other and smiled, saying nothing.

Although they are both currently commoners, they are optimistic about each other's future development, which is why they formed an alliance in advance and used each other as political resources.

He who does not plan for the long term is not fit to plan for the short term.

"Brother Kong, what's the situation inside the academy now?" Lian Shanxin asked.

Kong Ningyuan sighed, “People’s hearts are unsettled, and some are even feeling insecure. Especially after ‘Heavenly Sword’ suspended all recommendations this year, not only the academy, but also the major families of Jiangzhou have become wary.”

Lian Shanxin nodded.

He can understand.

Students recommended to enter Bailudong Academy were divided into two types: those with connections and those with exceptional connections.

Those without connections can only struggle to pass exams; the path of recommendation is simply not open to them.

Stopping the recommendations is tantamount to making enemies of these backgrounds.

But "Heavenly Sword" did it anyway.

Because "Nine Heavens" is the larger context.

Moreover, "Nine Heavens" is now politically correct.

"It seems that 'Nine Heavens' indeed intends to 'turn the blade inward' this time, and also has the ability and courage to turn that intention into action. Brother Kong, if I were you, I would leave the academy as soon as possible and go to the capital to enter officialdom."

"How could I not want to? But I am a suspect now, a prime suspect." Kong Ningyuan sighed. "If you can truly gain the favor of 'Heavenly Sword,' I would still be hoping you can clear my name."

"I'll try."

Lian Shanxin didn't see Kong Ningyuan's past collusion with the Demonic Sect, but his talent wasn't a cheat code that granted him full access to everything, so he didn't know everything. If even a businessman like Guild Master Qu could be a member of the Demonic Sect, then Kong Ningyuan, as the disciple of the Vice Headmaster, was definitely a prime suspect.

But none of this matters.

Lian Shanxin just wanted an opportunity.

As for Kong Ningyuan's innocence?

The interpretation of the Demonic Cult rests with "Nine Heavens".

Having lived two lives, Lian Shanxin had matured considerably. He understood one thing: the truth wasn't that important; the leader's opinion mattered most!

……

A moment later, the carriage stopped at the foot of Houping Mountain on the southern slope of Wulao Peak.

Bailudong Academy is surrounded by three mountains and has a river flowing through it. It is free from the hustle and bustle of the city and has the beauty of springs and rocks.

The scenery speaks for itself, but neither Lian Shanxin nor Kong Ningyuan were in the mood to appreciate it at the moment.

"'Heavenly Sword' should be in the Imperial Library right now. Follow me."

Lian Shanxin walked forward beside Kong Ningyuan, saying little, only watching Kong Ningyuan skillfully greet other students passing by, calmly accepting the scrutiny of others, and vaguely hearing their whispers:
"Is this the person recommended by Senior Brother Kong?"

"I heard he wasn't born into a prominent family."

"Why would Senior Brother Kong recommend him? Is he really a talented person?"

"He is truly a talented individual; he can be admitted directly to the academy without needing a recommendation."

"Senior Brother Kong is likely to be in trouble this time, so why would he stubbornly recommend someone at such a critical juncture? Does the Kong family intend to go against 'Nine Heavens'?"

Lian Shanxin's expression remained unchanged as he silently processed the complex information.

Upon arriving at the Imperial Library, Lian Shanxin happened to see a young man open the door and walk out, his face ashen.

"Young Master Jiang? You..."

Kong Ningyuan recognized the other person's identity.

Young Master Jiang also recognized Kong Ningyuan's identity, and said with dissatisfaction, "'Heavenly Sword' said that I did not meet the requirements of a student of White Deer Cave Academy and told me to come back next year."

Kong Ningyuan's expression changed slightly: "You're not good enough either? 'Heavenly Sword' doesn't even give face to the governor?"

Lian Shanxin's expression also changed.

The governor's son?
This is the son of the highest-ranking official in Jiangzhou.

"Nine Heavens" was more ruthless than he had imagined.

"next."

At this time, there was another person ahead of Lian Shanxin in line, who was also originally recommended.

After he went inside, Kong Ningyuan spoke with a serious expression: "Brother, since I have already agreed to recommend you, your affairs are my responsibility. If Bailudong Academy doesn't work out, there are three other great academies. It's just that there's no time to make arrangements this year, but I will definitely plan for you next year."

Next year is too late, and the opportunity is right in front of him; Lian Shanxin doesn't want to wait any longer.

He smiled at Kong Ningyuan: "Brother Kong, don't worry, even if I don't go through the recommendation process, I can still join the academy through the normal examination."

“I naturally trust my brother, but I must keep my promise,” Kong Ningyuan said solemnly.

He didn't mind losing face in front of Lian Shanxin, but he did mind breaking his promise in front of Lian Shanxin.

When a young person doesn't have many assets, they should at least make people willing to believe in them.

Trust is the foundation for continued cooperation.

The governor's son was also rejected by "Heavenly Sword," which lowered Kong Ningyuan's confidence that Lian Shanxin would be favored by "Heavenly Sword."

He was considering how to compensate Lian Shanxin.

Especially when the door of the Imperial Library was quickly reopened, and the man who had gone in earlier came out with a livid face, Kong Ningyuan's heart sank to the bottom.

He hoped that Lian Shanxin would succeed, so that he would have another political asset.

Now, the chances seem slim.

“Brother, do your best. I’ll take care of the rest.” Kong Ningyuan held Lian Shanxin’s hand, his voice heavy.

Lian Shanxin, on the contrary, completely relaxed and walked into the Imperial Library with a carefree air. The first thing he saw was not the grandmaster and swordsmanship leader sitting in the main seat of the Imperial Library, but an endless collection of books and imperial edicts.

The Imperial Library, also known as the Holy Scripture Pavilion or the Imperial Edict Pavilion.

This is the place with the largest collection of books in Jiangzhou, and also the place with the most imperial edicts.

The collection of books showcases the millennium-old heritage of Bailudong Academy, while the imperial edict demonstrates that Bailudong Academy was favored by the emperor.

All of this constitutes the Bailudong Academy, which has been passed down for thousands of years, and its current status in the world.

Lian Shanxin withdrew his gaze and bowed to the three big shots, led by "Heavenly Sword," with the respect due to a student.

"Student Lian Shanxin greets 'Heavenly Sword' and the two esteemed gentlemen."

"Tianjian" was dressed in white, his face pale and bloodless. Lian Shanxin, who had studied medicine since childhood, could tell at a glance that "Tianjian" was suffering from severe injuries and was deficient in qi and blood.

Tianjian was flanked by two protectors, one male and one female, but even Shan Xin didn't recognize them.

Of course, he didn't actually know "Tianjian" either, but the center position was unlikely to belong to anyone else, and people in the entertainment industry and Shandong people were particularly sensitive about this.

Moreover, the dazzling sword energy emanating from the "Heavenly Sword" caused Lian Shanxin's eyes to sting.

Normally, someone at the "Heavenly Sword" level should be able to contain their sword energy. The fact that it's so blatantly exposed now means either the "Heavenly Sword" is seriously injured and can't control the leakage of sword energy, or—it's intentional on the part of the "Heavenly Sword".

Its sharp edge was clearly visible, its intent to kill. The timid and cowardly would immediately cower in the face of such sword energy.

Lian Shanxin did not back down; he was merely respectful and composed.

But even so, it did not move "Heavenly Sword".

Master Lin, standing beside "Heavenly Sword," spoke up: "Lianshan Xin, recommended by Kong Ningyuan?"

"Yes."

"It seems there's no Lianshan family in Jiangzhou City?"

"Yes."

"You come from a poor family?" Master Lin became somewhat interested.

He came from a poor family.

Lian Shanxio said, "I come from an ordinary background and cannot aspire to a life of poverty."

Yes, coming from a poor family is an honor for them.

The term "aristocratic family" needs no explanation, but many people assume that "humble family" refers to ordinary people. In fact, "humble family" refers to a family with lower social standing and influence than aristocratic families, also known as "commoner family."

In both the imperial court and the common people's circles, many claim to come from humble backgrounds. But they're not being modest; they're showing off, trying to tell others that they too have connections.

Lian Shan Jingcheng didn't work hard enough, so Lian Shan Xin couldn't show off.

"You're neither from a prominent family nor a poor one, so how did you manage to get Kong Ningyuan's recommendation?" Master Lin asked curiously. "What did you rely on?"

Lian Shanxin explained, "I hit it off with Brother Kong at first sight. He recognized my great talent and therefore recommended me."

Lian Shanxin didn't mention the "giving away pears" incident; the idea was given to Kong Ningyuan, so it was Kong Ningyuan's.

Since Kong Ningyuan hadn't wronged him, he wouldn't embarrass Kong Ningyuan in front of others; this was Lian Shanxin's principle of conduct.

Master Lin mocked, "It seems he has sided with the Confucius family and wants to be their lackey. At such a young age, he has already degenerated. The world is going to the dogs."

Master Lin's disdain and hostility were practically palpable.

Lian Shanxin and Master Lin exchanged a glance, their eyelids twitching suddenly.

Today, his "talent" kicked in much more frequently than ever before.

Previously, Lian Shanxin had been unable to see anyone's secrets for a whole week, but today he saw Chairman Qu's and Master Lin's secrets one after another.

Is this "talent" or "big stage talent"?
The more tense and exciting the situation, and the more key figures are involved, the greater their influence becomes.

Lian Shanxin was multitasking, thinking about the activation pattern of his "talent" on one hand, and about Master Lin's secret on the other.

They say mindless villains aren't popular anymore.

This guy wanted to step on me to show off in front of "Heavenly Sword," but you have a whole host of dark secrets, so you've really messed with me.

"May I ask who you are?" Lian Shanxin asked.

Lin Fuzi sneered, “'Purple Lightning Sword' Lin Xiangwen, martial arts teacher of Bailudong Academy.”

The nickname and the name don't quite match up.

Lian Shanxin inwardly complained, then continued to complain aloud: "Master Lin isn't one of the 'Nine Heavens,' is he?"

Lin Xiangwen's face immediately darkened.

Lian Shanxin ignored him and intensified his attack: "'Heavenly Sword' has arrived, and now Master Lin wants to join 'Nine Heavens'. Brother Kong and I hit it off immediately, so I'm going to join the Kong family as their lackey. Master Lin, as a teacher at the academy, is kneeling directly before 'Heavenly Sword'. What does that mean? Is he abandoning darkness for light?"

"you……"

Lin Xiangwen wanted to get angry, but was stopped by Qi Shiyun who was standing next to him.

Qi Shiyun explained on Lin Xiangwen's behalf: "'Master Lin' is an old friend of mine. We met several times in the martial arts world in the past. He joined 'Nine Heavens' because I recommended him, not because Master Lin actively flattered him."

Lin Xiangwen immediately looked at Qi Shiyun with gratitude, his eyes filled with undisguised admiration.

Lian Shanxin glanced at Qi Shiyun, whose talent didn't manifest this time. However, he could tell that Qi Shiyun was a member of "Nine Heavens," and most likely a right-hand man of "Heavenly Sword," holding a much higher position than Lin Xiangwen.

That will become his political capital in the future.

Lian Shanxin cupped his hands and said, "Does Sister believe that Master Lin joined 'Nine Heavens' because he harbors feelings for you?"

Qi Shiyun did not answer, but her silence was the best response.

A woman of average social standing, steamed shrimp heads... never mind, she can't even see her toes when she looks down, so she's not exactly average.

“Sister, you’re wrong. I don’t have much talent in other areas, but I’m good at observing details and have eyes that can see the truth. Sister, you think that Master Lin is in love with you, but little do you know that Master Lin doesn’t really like women. You are just a shield for Master Lin to disguise himself and hide his true love.”

"What?" Qi Shiyun paled instantly.

Lian Shanxin turned his gaze to "Tianjian," who had been enjoying himself.

"Lord 'Heavenly Sword', your divine sword is unparalleled. You are irresistible to both men and women, and I admire you greatly."

Qi Shiyun's worldview has been shattered.

The smile that had been on Tianjian's face as he watched the spectacle froze on his face.

Lin Xiangwen wanted to kill him: "Kid, you're asking for it. You dare to slander me."

Lian Shanxin shrugged, spread his hands, and said in a calm tone that was infuriating: "He's getting anxious."

"I……"

"You go out first."

"Heavenly Sword" spoke.

He was also anxious.

People who enjoy themselves will only move on, not disappear.

(End of this chapter)