"In the year 1314 of Kaiyuan, the Holy Pagoda descended upon the world, suppressing all gods, devils, demons, and ghosts. No supernatural arts remained in the world."
"From then on, the world entered the age of mortals."
"After centuries of chaotic warfare, the Human Emperor ascended the throne and unified the realm. Following another thousand years of development, the human race reached its zenith."
"But when things reach their extreme, they turn toward their opposite. The greatest prosperity inevitably gives way to decline."
"Now the imperial dynasty is in decline, treacherous ministers hold sway, and ever since the Grand General died unjustly accused, wars have erupted everywhere, leaving the people unable to scrape out a living. If the Grand General were still alive, how could things have come to this!"
Inside the schoolroom.
The more the old teacher spoke, the more agitated he became, until he was beating his chest and stamping his feet.
The students seated below listened with rapt attention.
But it was not because his words resonated with them. They felt nothing for the Grand General; they listened so intently because they were interested in the Holy Pagoda he mentioned.
"Sir, is the Holy Pagoda really as the legends say? Can anyone enter?"
A sturdy youth raised his hand to ask, interrupting the old teacher's impassioned speech.
The other students also craned their necks in anticipation.
The old teacher drew a deep breath.
His gaze swept over the dozen or so students below, and he could not help shaking his head.
Straightening his clothes, he said, "Anyone can enter the Holy Pagoda, but it stands within the Imperial City. Though the imperial dynasty is weak now, that doesn't mean anyone can go there as they please. With how little promise you lot show, you'll struggle to leave