"Gu Yang, you must understand that Canglong Island's Genius Assessment is extraordinarily strict. The last time Wancheng Martial Academy had a disciple receive the title of genius was over two hundred years ago. Such a chance to soar to the heavens in a single step is right before you—why don't you hurry and thank the Deacon?"
Seeing that Gu Yang had remained silent, Hong Tao immediately spoke up to prompt him.
"Thank you, Deacon." Having been reminded, Gu Yang hurriedly replied.
"Haha, there is no need to thank me. Hall Master Qin rewards and punishes fairly. If it is a reward you deserve, then it is yours. No one can change that."
Liu Qing laughed and waved his hand. "There are seven days left until the New Year. I will wait for you here for one xun. In ten days, you will leave with me for Canglong Island. Use this xun to settle all your miscellaneous affairs here. Once you arrive at Canglong Island, you may not return for several years."
"Yes, sir." Countless thoughts ran through Gu Yang's mind, but he did not ask them aloud and simply agreed.
Yet this made the others present laugh again. Even Vice Dean Wang, who had always been stern and unsmiling, forced out a faint smile as he praised, "Not bad composure."
A short while later, Gu Yang left with Hong Tao.
As they walked back toward the Martial Academy, Hong Tao said, "If you had any doubts back at Bamboo Garden, you can ask me now."
"Yes." Gu Yang pondered for a moment before asking about what concerned him most. "Academy Dean Hong, could you tell me about Canglong Island's genius evaluation?"
"The genius evaluation..." Academy Dean Hong's gaze drifted into the distance, as though he had fallen into memories from