Chapter 74: Merit and Rewards

Atop Tianwu Academy’s highest peak.

“Everyone, quiet down!” Nangong Wentian cleared his throat, his gaze sweeping over the bustling crowd as he raised his hand to settle them.

“Now that everyone’s made it back safely—though a few of our students sadly lost their lives—I want to take a moment of silence for them.” The mood grew somber as pain flickered across the faces in the crowd.

“That said, this journey to the secret realm was also our Academy’s first real clash with the outside world.” Nangong Wentian scanned the crowd with satisfaction. “We’ve taken our first step, and I truly believe Tianwu Academy will soon be renowned across the land!”

“Alright, that’s enough speeches!” Suddenly, Nangong Wentian’s voice boomed. “Let’s get to the real reason you’re all here—awarding those who made the greatest contributions during the secret realm expedition! Prizes for the top three contributors! Tell me, who did the most?”

“Senior Gu! Senior Gu! Senior Gu! Senior Gu!” The entire group of disciples broke out in perfect unison, chanting.

“If it weren’t for Senior Gu that day, none of us would have made it out alive. So the greatest credit goes to him!” Several students picked Gu Qingyi up, tossing him into the air again and again.

“Success in the secret realm took all our combined effort. I only did my part, nothing special.” Gu Qingyi, a bit embarrassed by the shower of praise, tried to downplay his role.

…………….

“Excellent, modest and unshaken!” Nangong Wentian watched, satisfaction glowing in his eyes.

“But let me be clear: everyone who contributed will be appropriately rewarded. I keep my word!” Suddenly, his tone grew stern.

“First place: Gu Qingyi! As team leader, your achievements in the secret realm were outstanding, greatly bolstering the Academy’s foundation. I hereby announce—”

“You are awarded two thousand Marrow-Cleansing Fruits, ten stalks of seventh-grade immortal herbs, two hundred high-grade spirit stones, ten types of valuable heavenly and earthly treasures, and one year of unlimited access to the Epiphany Tower!”

“Wonderful! Amazing!” The hall instantly erupted into a thunder of applause.

……………..

“Second place: Gu Qingxiao. Fearless and resourceful, you put yourself on the front lines and saved countless Academy disciples—a truly rare spirit! Here’s your reward!” Nangong Wentian paused, then flashed a devilish grin as he looked over the packed crowd.

“You are awarded one thousand Marrow-Cleansing Fruits, five stalks of seventh-grade immortal herbs, one hundred high-grade spirit stones, five kinds of heavenly and earthly treasures, and half a year’s use of the Epiphany Tower!” A wave of admiration swept over the female disciples as they gazed at Gu Qingxiao.

“It’s what every disciple should do. Thank you, Headmaster, for your kindness.” Gu Qingxiao stepped forward, bowing as he accepted the rewards.

“Well done, keep up the good work.” Nangong Wentian nodded, his eyes full of approval.

“Now, third place!” Nangong Wentian’s face was beaming as he looked out at the cheering crowd. “Third place goes to Nangong Lin. Calm and composed, you discovered a great treasure for the Academy, adding significant resources and strengthening our foundation! Here’s your reward!”

“You are awarded a Late Spring Sword, a weapon of the Earth grade, one hundred high-grade spirit stones, and two Earth grade cultivation manuals!” A disciple stepped up to present the prizes for all to see.

“Thank you for the rewards, Father!” Nangong Lin walked up onto the stage with a radiant smile, surrounded by admiring students as she accepted her prizes.

Watching the crowd’s excitement, Nangong Wentian was already plotting, A lot of these rewards actually came from the secret realm—this is a win-win! The Academy benefits and the students are even more motivated. Absolutely worth it!

…………….

Once the rewards for the top three were handed out, the crowd erupted into lively chatter and laughter.

“Now, what comes next, I’m sure everyone will want to hear. Because this is something every one of you gets!” Nangong Wentian coughed sharply to get everyone’s attention. “To celebrate everyone’s safe return, I’ve decided to open the Spiritual Spring to all—free of charge! If you’re here, you’re eligible!”

“You’ll get to enjoy three days and nights of luxurious bathing! Everyone present can use the spring!” Nangong Wentian announced, dropping a bombshell that sent excitement through the crowd.

“I know that after this ordeal, your cultivation will soar. I can’t wait to see your progress next time!” Nangong Wentian gave a warm smile, “That’s all. Dismissed!”

“Wise Headmaster! Mighty Headmaster! Headmaster, we love you!” The moment those words hit, smiles broke out everywhere as the crowd cheered their hearts out.

One student said excitedly, “Let’s go, I can’t wait to soak in the Spiritual Spring.”

Another disciple sidled over, grinning, “Same here, I’ve been eyeing that spring for ages. Let’s go together!”

“Perfect, let’s head over then.” With that, the crowd filed out, chatting and laughing in cheerful, orderly groups.

In an instant, the packed hall was left empty as everyone scattered toward the Spiritual Spring.

【Sword Qi Continent’s cultivation ranks: Ordinary Person, Sword Practitioner Realm, Sword Qi Realm, Sword Sea Realm, Sword King Realm, Sword Emperor Realm, Sword Saint Realm, (Demi-God Realm), Sword God Realm】

【Demi-God Realm has never actually emerged in the world, so most people have forgotten about it. It’s also called the False God Realm, as recorded in the Ancient Inheritance Scrolls.】