Facing an Ancient God for a Year

Chapter 1997: Chapter 1992: Malicious Guest

That’s right, the Divine Ashes Institute.

Although it was officially winter, the climate around the Academy was not extreme. In the warm afternoon sun, not only the many young talents exuded vibrant energy, but even the plants seemed to be bursting with life.

After a leisurely stroll, Professor Fu stood with hands behind his back, exuding a quiet grandeur, as he surveyed the building before him, which was considered the most prestigious in the entire Academy.

Indeed, this was his intended destination, not a random passing-by.

The last visit had not been very pleasant, but it did not stop Fu Qian from remembering the route.

As for why he came here, it was naturally because his previous exchange was also not very pleasant.

Knowing clearly that several scrutinizing gazes had already landed on him in the brief moment he stood there, Fu Qian felt no discomfort about being disliked and confidently walked forward.

”What brings Professor Fu here?”

Regardless of whether the gazes were friendly or not, being the temporary leader of Heaven’s Commencement Institute and frequently appearing in recent Academy hotspots, even with unannounced visits, his presence signified a level of inter-departmental collaboration.

So when Fu Qian penetrated the gray barrier outside the building, reminiscing about the vintage demeanor of the Divine Ashes Institute, Professor Veron was already there waiting.

”What’s happened, sir? Is the investigation at the Benevolence Institute not going well?”

Although his gaze was somewhat meaningful, the latter maintained his poise, proactively greeting and even inviting him to sit aside.

”How could it be? Quite the contrary, it’s going very smoothly, which is why I have time for a stroll.”

In response, Fu Qian casually laughed, indicating there was no need for concern as he followed behind.

...

Having time for a stroll but not to change clothes first?

Unfortunately, a preoccupied mind often changes; despite the enthusiastic exchange, Old Master Veron showed no joy, and even his face darkened slightly.

Unless he deliberately dressed this way for the visit, so that when questioned, he could naturally claim ”it’s going very smoothly,” indicating another achievement... Is this guy so boring?

Although Old Master Veron was good at maintaining his composure, Fu Qian still gleaned much information from his response.

”I wonder if the progress at the Divine Ashes Institute is going smoothly?”

Yet he didn’t dwell on such malicious assumptions. After sitting, Fu Qian inquired about the development of his counterpart institute.

”...Which aspect does Professor Fu refer to?”

Having no intention to offer tea, Old Master Veron replied with a forced smile.

”The young person you previously brought to my side, I’ve seen them, truly a promising prospect, awaiting follow-up these days.

”Of course, they’re also a person with character... Rarely do people refuse my gifts.”

Fu Qian didn’t beat around the bush, clearly stating his purpose and continuing to laugh, showing no sign of being offended.

How dare you mention...

Unlike being generous, Mr. Veron mostly felt other emotions.

No need to think; the previously reported visit of Professor Ni Huayuan with the genius girl was surely detailed extensively.

Fu’s audacious behavior of poaching in front of others and Wen Li’s stance in resisting temptation were certainly key points.

Reflect a bit, and even that visit was likely a step-by-step induced result.

Divine Ashes, with its proud history, could hardly bear such humiliation.

Hence, the whole institute must be preparing to retaliate confidently.

”Unfortunately, as Professor Fu mentioned, it’s hardly been two days.”

Yet in the next moment, Mr. Veron, considered the most clownish figure therein, displayed commendable restraint.

”In the Transcendent World, especially on the spiritual level, there are too many unpredictable dangers, and Divine Ashes would not easily gamble with a young person’s future.”

Nodding slightly, he straightforwardly admitted there was no special progress yet, for reasons unimpeachable, even subtly poking at Professor Fu’s actions.

Oh?

But even with such a modest response, it was nonetheless intolerable to the arrogant new demigod of Heaven’s Commencement.

Narrowing his eyes, the ever-present smile on Professor Fu’s face since entering began to withdraw at that moment.

Even the centuries-old reserves of the Divine Ashes Institute seemed to be stirred around.

...

The decree.

Not merely mythical oppressive killing intent, achieving such effect truly requires invoking a skill.

The reissued ”Return Edict,” underpinned by the ”essential symbol of the false law authority.”

Though visually unimpressive, its pristine power was formidable.

At that moment, like becoming the sun, Fu Qian felt the entrenched issues of the Divine Ashes Institute dissolving irresistibly.

”Professor Fu... What is the meaning of this?”

Unfortunately, for those accustomed to the atmosphere, withdrawal symptoms seemed to emerge.

Although not entirely certain, as a divine being’s perception, Professor Veron immediately pinpointed Fu Qian, anger and surprise mingling.

This act unmistakably fell under provocation, with Heaven’s Commencement lately being excessively brazen.

Yet despite this, Professor Veron maintained scholarly demeanor, questioning without reciprocating aggression.

”Heaven’s Commencement would not gamble with a young person’s future either.

”Therefore... Please convey to that young person, my offer remains valid, welcoming her visit anytime.”

Meeting gazes, Fu Qian finally spoke, his tone confrontational.

”I won’t disturb today, the spirit of the Divine Ashes Institute is admirable.”

Following this, he replaced his tensioned expression with a smile, easing the atmosphere a bit, and even stood up to take his leave.

”...I will relay the message to her.”

Oscillating repeatedly, Professor Veron was clearly at a loss, but the inherent pride of a Psychic Series competitor led him to accept Fu Qian’s request.

Fu Qian also believed he would indeed accomplish it—though not entirely trusting his earlier words.

Departing the Divine Ashes Institute amid farewells, Fu Qian then closed the Return Edict and glanced back one last time.

With these people’s twisted style, faced with his repeated provocations, if truly without progress, they wouldn’t stoop to emphasizing such a short time frame as a reason.

Humility is often a virtue of those with psychological advantages; Old Master Veron’s commendable composure today gave a sense of impending retaliation.

In just two short days, Miss Wen’s side must indeed have made staggering progress.

Sighing, Fu Qian looked up at the vast clear sky, as he did in Paradise.