Chapter 32: 0032 Interrogation (2nd update)
Lu Chenzhou listened and felt a sense of relief in his heart.
His progress had finally been noticed by those above.
This was also the effect he had been seeking.
Shi Ruyu also had some expectations in her heart. She knew too well that the greater the expectations, the greater the disappointment, so she didn't dare to entertain some more optimistic thoughts...
Ji Xuantong said,
"Right, Lu Chenzhou, you want to apply for Pingjiang Martial Arts University, don't you?"
Lu Chenzhou nodded.
Pingjiang Martial Arts University had been his dream for a long time.
Qingtian Cang smiled and said,
"Pingjiang Martial Arts University? That's not bad."
From the tone of his voice, Pingjiang Martial Arts University was just so-so.
This is the confidence and assurance of the 24-School Alliance!
Naturally, Lu Chenzhou also wanted to apply for a Top Martial University.
The problem was that he no longer met the age requirements.
Could it be... he still had hope?
At this thought, a flicker of anticipation arose in his heart.
Qingtian Cang said,
"Next, I will ask both of you some questions about your cultivation. Simply state your actual situation truthfully. Whether it's 'Instant Enlightenment' or the 'Martial Bone Dao Embryo,' both are intangibles that cannot be measured.
We can only judge whether you have the corresponding qualifications based on the experiences summarized by predecessors combined with your descriptions. If you fail to be discovered because of inaccurate descriptions, don't blame me, understand?"
Both of them realized the seriousness of the issue.
This was indeed about their personal destiny and could not be taken lightly.
Qingtian Cang first turned to Shi Ruyu and said,
"Shi Ruyu, right? You studied at Pingjiang Martial Arts University for four years."
"Yes, senior!"
"Good, come with me."
He led Shi Ruyu to another room.
Taking advantage of this moment, Ji Xuantong advised Lu Chenzhou,
"Don't be nervous, just answer truthfully."
Lu Chenzhou nodded.
He had prepared all his phrasing for the Pingjiang Martial Arts University examination. Having looked into some cases of Instant Enlightenment or Martial Bone Dao Embryo and compared them to his actual situation, he knew he could be candid, as long as he didn't mention the Martial Arts Tree.
After all, his six-month breakthrough to the Third Rank was true; this couldn't be falsified.
Performing normally, he should at least be considered an Instant Enlightenment, right?
As for the Martial Bone Dao Embryo, he didn't dare to hold too much hope. His current performance, compared to such a legendary status, indeed fell far short... Of course, it would be better if he could receive such an assessment.
The inquiry took a long time.
During this period, Qingtian Cang even started a video conference, pulling in many experts from Dragon City Martial Arts University to analyze and judge together, and the discussion was intense.
An hour later, Shi Ruyu walked out, her heart in turmoil.
Being able to re-enter the Martial Arts University campus was also her dream.
She was a dreamer just like Lu Chenzhou.
Qingtian Cang's expression was good.
Presumably, Shi Ruyu's final assessment results were satisfactory.
Seeing this, Ji Xuantong also breathed a sigh of relief.
Qingtian Cang said,
"According to regulations, we still need to go through a second and third round of final evaluations. Of course, you don't need to come back; we have recorded everything."
Shi Ruyu bowed in thanks.
"The seniors have worked hard."
Qingtian Cang glanced at Lu Chenzhou.
"Come over here."
"Alright."
Lu Chenzhou walked in calmly.
He had been quietly practicing boxing for nine years, so no matter the outcome, he could accept it. After all, with the Martial Arts Tree, his future was not a dream!
"Take a seat."
"Thank you, senior."
"I have looked over your basic information. Now, I will ask you some questions, and you will answer truthfully. Do not resort to deceit, as the consequences will be on you!"
"Okay."
...
Qingtian Cang's questions were particularly detailed.
Including Lu Chenzhou's studies of the three Martial Arts "Basic Boxing", "Black Tiger Fist", and "Sea-sweeping Body", as well as when he began cultivating the Basic Skills "Dragon and Tiger Heavenly Pile", the time nodes of each Breakthrough Realm, and also those of segment breaks.
There was also the usage of Martial Arts Supplements.
The school needed these basic data to roughly assess Lu Chenzhou's comprehension. They also compared Lu Chenzhou's comprehension before and after his instant enlightenment. Although this was not accurate and not on the same level of authority as root bone testing, it was still meaningful for reference.
He also inquired about many details of Lu Chenzhou's cultivation and whether there were any special changes in his body, his medical check-ups over the years, and other comprehensive data.
The inquiry lasted for an hour. Lu Chenzhou responded fluently, albeit a bit nervous. Qingtian Cang knew that this was Lu Chenzhou's first time facing such a strong person, so he repeatedly reminded Lu Chenzhou to relax and assured him that there would be no problems.
Finally, Qingtian Cang said with a smile,
"We have a rough understanding of your situation now. Just wait patiently for the news, and as for the Pingjiang Martial Arts University examination, you should also register as usual."
Lu Chenzhou couldn't help but ask,
"Teacher, do I have a chance of getting into Dragon City Martial Arts University?"
He definitely didn't want to go to Pingjiang Martial Arts University if he could get into one of the top 24 schools.
Qingtian Cang thought for a moment and said,
"Kid, I can't guarantee you anything, I can only say there is hope. For one thing, you are over the age limit for the school's special recruitment, and for another, it's not yet clear whether you have achieved instant enlightenment or awakened a Martial Bone Dao Embryo. Even if our school committee determines that you are a talent with Acquired Enlightenment, according to legal provisions, you would still need to complete the remaining courses in the high school affiliated with Dragon City University, then take the national Martial Arts joint entrance examination and pass before you could enter Martial Arts University. That's why I told you to continue registering for the special recruitment exam at Pingjiang Martial Arts University, the same principle applies."
Lu Chenzhou still expressed his gratitude,
"Thank you, senior, I understand."
The requirements for a top-level Martial University were very high.
Those who could bypass these procedures to enter had either top-class root bone or were determined by the school committee to possess the aptitude of a Martial Bone Dao Embryo.
Lu Chenzhou was actually clear about all these.
He just harbored a little bit of hope in his heart.
"Alright, that's it."
"Thank you for your trouble, senior."
"Right, keep your phone available at all times during this period; we may still need you to go to a more specialized root bone testing institution for a second round of root bone testing."
"Alright."
In Da Xia, the root bone testing for over a billion people was conducted in hospitals, with an accuracy rate close to one hundred percent. Even though there were occasional errors, the probability was like winning a lottery. Therefore, Lu Chenzhou had no hope for a second root bone test.
He still had to open the door to Martial Arts University through either his comprehension or Martial Bone Dao Embryo!
Today, Qingtian Cang's visit had already given him hope.
"Xuantong, teach these two children well."
Qingtian Cang donned his Martial Arts Robe embroidered with the Taihang Soaring Dragon pattern.
This was the school uniform of Dragon City Martial Arts University.
"Teacher, you've come all the way to Su City; why not stay a few more days?"
Ji Xuantong, usually so imposing in front of his students, was now extremely docile.
Qingtian Cang waved his hand and casually said,
"No need, I'm also here on business in Su City and just stopped by on my way to see how well your Martial Arts Academy is doing and that you haven't dishonored the school. Su City has been quite unsettled recently, watch out for your safety. Oh, and Xuantong, when are you going to Break the Second Shackles?"
Ji Xuantong was ashamed.
"Breaking Second is too difficult, but I'll keep striving!"
"Hahaha, I'm heading out."
Qingtian Cang strode away, soon disappearing from the Martial Arts Hall.
Only then did the students dare to take a deep breath and huddle together to whisper.
"My goodness, that's powerful. Is that the Master of our academy's teacher?"
"It is said that he's a Third Shackles Breaker... and from Dragon City Martial Arts University, no less. In some third-rate Martial Universities, even a Martial Arts Master-level figure can be the headmaster."
"The north is martially inclined, with fierce folk customs, numerous Daoist lineages, and clouds of strong ones!"
Ji Xuantong looked at the group and scolded,
"Finish your fist techniques and head home early; don't stay in the Martial Arts Academy too late!"
...
On the other side.
Shi Ruyu was practicing with Lu Chenzhou.
"It seems like we've both asked about the same things."
"I feel like you have a chance, senior sister."
"I don't know, I think you're more likely than I am."
"As long as I can get into Pingjiang Martial Arts University, that's fine."
The two "Martial Lords" were humbly discussing their prospects when Ji Xuantong came over and said,
"Chenzhou, come to my Martial Arts Room."
Lu Chenzhou looked at Shi Ruyu.
Shi Ruyu seemed to understand something and said with a slight smile,
"Go on, it might be good news."