Chapter 46: Lin Qingyu's Curiosity! Representatives from the Three Top Universities Arrive!
"Calm? How can I stay calm!"
"The first provincial top scorer since the establishment of Mian City!"
"A historic breakthrough! Wait… I have another call coming in on this side."
"It's probably the media, I'll hang up first and talk to you in detail later!"
The call was hung up hurriedly.
Shortly after, the second call came in.
It was Aunt Lu Hui.
"X… Xiaoli…"
Aunt Lu Hui's voice carried trembling and disbelief:
"Did I read it wrong? Number one on the gaokao rankings.
Lu Li, from Qingyang County No. 3 High School, is that you?"
"It's me, Auntie, you didn't read it wrong," Lu Li responded gently.
A clear intake of breath came from the other end of the phone, followed by a suppressed sob:
"R… Really you.
Provincial top scorer, our Lu family has produced a provincial top scorer!
If your mother knew… She…"
"Auntie, don't cry,"
Lu Li hurriedly said, "I'll head over right away, let's talk in person."
"G… Good! Hurry and come over!
Your uncle is here too, Jiang Yao just checked her scores, we're all waiting for you!"
Hanging up the phone,
Lu Li soon left the residential area and came to the Yundingyuan Villa.
He saw Aunt Lu Hui, whose emotions were agitated.
He saw her holding her phone and repeatedly refreshing the ranking page.
Her eye sockets were red, and she kept muttering:
"It is the blessing of your mother's spirit in heaven, she must be watching you from above."
Uncle Jiang Wenyuan,
a middle-aged man with an elegant temperament, lost his composure for once at this moment.
He heavily patted Lu Li's shoulder, his voice excited:
"Good lad! Quietly you've done a heaven-shaking, earth-shattering big thing!"
Cousin Jiang Yao stood to the side.
Her cold eyes were astonishingly bright at this moment.
Looking Lu Li up and down, she couldn't help but exclaim out loud:
"Xiaoli, you're extraordinary this time! Provincial top scorer!"
They also knew that Lu Li participated in the Dragon Gate Project.
But facing those proud talents of Rongcheng No. 7 High School, they never thought Lu Li could win the championship.
But now, Lu Li really did it!
And Jiang Yao's score had also been checked.
This Mian City proud talent appeared somewhat inconspicuous when placed across the entire province.
Her ranking was merely around three thousandth place.
Of course, this was also enough for her to attend a very good Professional university.
…
Just as Lu Li's family was immersed in joy,
in Chengdu, within the urban area, inside a quiet detached villa,
Lin Qingyu stood quietly in front of the floor-to-ceiling window.
She was wearing a light blue set of home clothes, with her ink-black long hair loosely draped over her shoulders.
Outside the window was a meticulously tended courtyard, with a few cherry blossom trees swaying in the wind.
Yet her gaze fell upon the screen of the tablet computer in her hand.
On it was the newly released final ranking list for the Sichuan Province gaokao.
First Place: Lu Li.
Second Place: Lin Qingyu.
Clearance time difference: 1 minute and 07 seconds.
"A one-minute clearance gap…"
She muttered softly to herself, a trace of extremely faint ripples flashing deep within her black eyes.
That young man she had only glanced at once outside the examination hall.
That Paladin who only replied with 'None of your damn business' when provoked by Senior Zhang Hao.
Actually, he was really faster than her.
And faster by a full minute.
In top-tier gaokao competitions, this gap could be called a chasm.
"Can a Paladin actually be strong to this extent?"
She tilted her head slightly.
It was not jealousy, but an unprecedented curiosity.
Since she was young, she had seen countless geniuses.
Yet she herself had always stood at the very forefront of her peers.
But this time, someone walked ahead of her in a way she had never imagined…
…
Another half an hour passed.
While Lu Li was still at his aunt's place,
the phone rang; it was a call from Director Qin Lan.
"Sister Qin, is something the matter?"
Lu Li pressed the answer button, and Director Qin Lan's hurried yet hard-to-hide excited voice came from the other end:
"Lu Li, where are you right now?"
"At my aunt's house, what's wrong Sister Qin?"
"The people from the three top universities—Imperial Capital, Modu, and Jiangnan—have all arrived!
Right at the Municipal Education Bureau!
They are here for you, preparing to recruit you through special admission!"
"Special admission?" Lu Li's expression tightened.
"Correct, which means skipping the regular admission process and admitting you directly!"
Director Qin Lan's speaking speed was extremely fast, "I can't explain clearly on the phone, I'll drive to pick you up."
Aunt Lu Hui, who was beside him, hurriedly leaned close to the phone:
"Director Qin, we won't trouble you, we'll send Xiaoli over."
"Very well, then you guys be as quick as possible."
The matter was indeed urgent, so Director Qin Lan didn't stand on ceremony much.
"The three top universities came just for Xiaoli alone? Is this the prestige of a provincial top scorer?"
After hanging up the phone, Uncle Jiang Wenyuan was still somewhat dazed.
"Don't just stand there stunned, let's go, head over first!"
Aunt Lu Hui urged, her face full of pride.
Lu Li naturally went along with the flow.
The family immediately drove off, rushing energetically toward the Municipal Education Bureau.
Twenty minutes later, as soon as the car parked steadily, Lu Li saw Director Qin Lan already waiting at the entrance of the Municipal Education Bureau.
Today, she had obviously dressed up elaborately.
She wore a wine-red cinched-waist suit skirt, with a black lace shirt inner layer.
The collar was slightly open, revealing a section of fair collarbone.
The hip-hugger skirt clung tightly to her curves, and the hem stopped ten centimeters above her knees.
Her slender, beautiful legs wrapped in black silk stockings stood together, and on her feet she stepped on a pair of seven-centimeter thin-heeled red-bottomed high heels.
Her long hair was loosely tied up, a few strands of hair hung down her cheeks, her makeup was brilliant and vivid, and her red lips were like flames.
The charm of a mature woman and the capability of the Education Bureau director were perfectly fused on her.
Just standing there, she attracted the gazes of everyone passing by.
Seeing Lu Li get out of the car, her eyes lit up, and she walked up quickly to welcome him.
"You're here?"
Her smile was radiant, first nodding in greeting to Aunt Lu Hui and the others:
"Lu Li's parents, please go to the side hall to wait a moment and have some tea.
Lu Li, come with me."
After settling Aunt Lu Hui's family properly,
Director Qin Lan stepped in her high heels, leading Lu Litoward the conference room at the end of the corridor.
"How did the people from the three top universities arrive so fast?"
Along the way, Lu Li spoke with some surprise.
From the release of the gaokao scores to the arrival of the universities, it was at most just over half an hour before and after.
You must know.
This world was much larger than his past life!
The distance from the Imperial Capital to Sichuan Provincewas a full six thousand plus kilometers!
Even if taking an airplane, it wouldn't be possible to be this fast.
"They didn't use ordinary modes of travel."
Director Qin Lan smiled and said, "They all used teleportation magic, so naturally they could arrive very quickly."
"Teleportation magic!" Lu Li's heart startled.
He had actually forgotten about this matter.
Indeed, high-tier mages could master teleportation skills.
"Alright, don't think too much.
Once you enter these top universities, you will see even more skills that will shock you."
Saying that, Director Qin Lan pushed open the door and led Lu Li inside.
The conference room instantly fell silent.
Three gazes shot over uniformly, falling on Lu Li like a physical substance.
Beside the long table in the center of the conference room sat three factions of people.
On the left was a middle-aged man wearing a dark blue Zhongshan suit.
He had a square face, and his brows carried the majesty of someone who had resided in high positions for a long time.
On the right was a young woman wearing a fashionable suit skirt.
She looked only just over thirty, with slightly curled chestnut-long hair, and a lazy yet confident smile.
In the middle was a middle-aged scholar with an elegant temperament.
Clad in a gray long gown, he was toying with a jade plaque in his hand.
Lu Li's thoughts stirred slightly, and his Divine Appraisal skill silently activated.
[Name]: Feng Zhengxiong
[Level]: 57
[Class]: Thunder Warrior (Third Transition)
[Skills]: …
…
[Name]: Director Su Qingyue
[Level]: 55
[Class]: Phantom Assassin (Third Transition)
[Skills]: …
…
[Name]: Director Xia Hui
[Level]: 58
[Class]: Holy Words Scholar (Third Transition)
[Skills]: …
Chapter 47: Universities Fight Over People! Imperial Capital's Divine Blessing Rocks the Scene!
"As expected, they are all Third-Transition professionals!"
Lu Li was secretly startled in his heart.
The big figures who were normally a rare sight in Mian City,
had actually gathered here at this moment just to recruit him!
"Thank you for waiting, teachers."
Director Qin Lan spoke with a smile, her voice clear and melodious:
"Let me introduce him. This is the top scorer of this year's Sichuan Province college entrance examination, Lu Li."
She turned slightly and gestured toward Lu Li one by one:
"This is Director Feng Zhengxiong from Imperial Capital Professional University."
The middle-aged man in a Zhongshan suit nodded slightly, his gaze like lightning.
"This is Director Su Qingyue from Modu Professional University."
The woman in a suit curved her red lips and blinked at Lu Li.
"This is Director Xia Hui from Jiangnan Professional University."
The refined scholar pushed up his glasses and smiled gently.
"Hello, teachers." Lu Li bowed respectfully.
"Hello, student Lu Li."
Feng Zhengxiong from Imperial Capital University spoke first, looking at Lu Li as he said:
"Before we officially begin, we have another question we'd like to ask.
Based on your performance in the college entrance examination dungeon, your talent shouldn't just be D-rank, right?"
As his voice fell, the instructors from the other two universities also immediately looked over.
"Yes, a month ago,
I newly awakened an S+-rank talent named [Child of Light]."
At this time, the greater the potential displayed, the better.
Naturally, Lu Li would not hide it.
"As expected."
A look of "just as I thought" appeared on Feng Zhengxiong's face.
"Not bad." Director Xia Hui nodded slightly.
"Sichuan Province actually produced two S-rankers this year."
Director Su Qingyue's red lips curved slightly upward as she lazily leaned back against the chair, her slender legs crossed:
"Lin Qingyu's [Wind's Favor] is S-rank.
Your [Child of Light] is S+-rank... This year's batch in Sichuan Province is quite interesting."
From the preliminary test at Qingyang No. 3 High School to the rapid progress at the Training Camp, and then to the devastating performance during the college entrance examination live broadcast—
with their experience and discernment as Third-Transition professionals,
it was very easy to deduce that Lu Li's talent had definitely undergone a qualitative change!
They just hadn't expected it to be an S+-rank!
"An S+-rank talent, coupled with actual combat ability at the provincial top-scorer level."
Director Su Qingyue straightened her body, her charming eyes instantly turning sharp.
She stopped beating around the bush and directly offered her terms:
"Lu Li, come to our Modu Professional University!"
"An entrance scholarship of four million yanlong coins, disbursed all at once!"
"In addition, the school has prepared a set of Level 20 Epic-grade equipment for you! Once you reach Level 20, you can come straight to the armory to claim it!"
She paused, her voice rising a fraction:
"Aside from that, every semester you can claim a share of A+-rank cultivation resources! This will continue until you graduate!"
Boom!
As the words fell, Director Qin Lan's delicate body trembled violently!
Her beautiful legs wrapped in black silk even quivered slightly.
Her cold and glamorous face was filled with utter disbelief.
Luxurious!
Their offer was simply too luxurious!
Leaving aside the four million scholarship and the Epic-grade equipment,
just the A+-rank cultivation resources provided every semester could be considered exaggerated!
You must know that as the Mian City Education Bureau director,
it took an immense amount of effort for her to apply for a B-rank resource, and she even had to go find the vice mayor.
A+-rank resources?
Those were strategic materials that money couldn't necessarily buy!
They were usually only supplied to those Second-Transition powerhouses.
And now, Modu University actually promised to give one share every semester?
Such conditions were enough to make any genius's heart flutter!
However, this was not the end.
"Modu's conditions are not bad, but they are still a bit lacking compared to ours."
Director Xia Hui smiled gently and then spoke:
"Our Jiangnan Professional University is willing to increase the entrance scholarship to six million yanlong coins."
"As for equipment, we can promise a set of Level 25 Epic-grade equipment, which will likewise be fulfilled after you reach the level."
"As for cultivation resources..."
He pondered slightly:
"We can also provide one share of A+-rank resources every semester."
Director Qin Lan was already speechless.
She just stared blankly at these three parties.
She felt that her worldview was being repeatedly refreshed.
Was this the foundation of top universities?
Was this the prestige of an S+-rank talent plus a provincial top scorer?
However, Feng Zhengxiong's next words caused her to fall into complete stupefaction.
"Scholarship, equipment..."
Feng Zhengxiong slowly began, his voice steady:
"Imperial Capital Professional University can provide all of these, and they won't be any worse than theirs."
Changing the subject, his gaze fell on Lu Li:
"But besides that, we can also give you something they cannot give."
"You are a Paladin, a light-attribute professional."
"We can apply for... a 'Divine Blessing' opportunity for you."
"As long as you enroll, it will be fulfilled immediately."
Divine Blessing?
Lu Li was slightly taken aback.
Director Qin Lan at the side was even more baffled, clearly having never heard of this term before.
However—
"Divine Blessing?!"
Director Su Qingyue abruptly stood up from her seat.
Her charming and lazy face revealed a look of shock for the very first time:
"Feng Zhengxiong! Are you guys crazy?! Giving this kind of opportunity to a freshman?!"
"This isn't right, is it?"
Even the usually composed Director Xia Hui was somewhat shocked at this moment.
Feng Zhengxiong grinned, a trace of smugness in his expression:
"Who told the headquarters of the Holy See to be right in our Imperial Capital? We can give it to whoever we want."
Finishing his sentence, he looked at Lu Li and explained with a smile:
"Lu Li, you should be clear that in our world, deities exist."
"The so-called Divine Blessing is inviting a cardinal of the Holy See to personally take action and bestow a blessing upon you using divine arts."
"The effect of the blessing varies from person to person, but at the absolute minimum—"
He paused, saying word by word:
"It can also allow you to increase your acquired experience points by 50% within the coming year, and increase the free attribute points gained each time you level up by 50%!"
"And there is no level restriction."
As the words fell,
the entire conference room fell into a dead silence.
Director Qin Lan was completely dumbfounded.
She opened her mouth, but couldn't make any sound.
Only those numbers echoed frantically in her mind.
50%! 50%! 50%!
A 50% increase in experience gain and a 50% increase in attribute points for one year!
What kind of concept was this?
This meant that in the same dungeon,
while others got 1,000 experience points for clearing it once, Lu Li could get 1,500!
While others gained 5 free attribute points when leveling up, Lu Li could get 7.5 points!
And there was no level restriction!
If Lu Li still enjoyed this bonus at Level 20, Level 30, or even higher levels!
The accumulated advantage would be terrifying beyond imagination!
"No wonder they said this is crazy!"
Director Qin Lan muttered to herself, finally understanding why Director Su Qingyue and Director Xia Hui were so shocked.
If a blessing opportunity of this level were given to a Level 50 Third-Transition powerhouse,
a single year would be enough for him to open up a huge gap from those of the same rank!
Yet now, Imperial Capital University was actually going to use such an opportunity on a Level 13 college entrance examination freshman?
This handiwork was simply too exaggerated!
Lu Li also took a deep breath.
As a former game streamer who was extremely sensitive to numerical values, he naturally knew what this concept meant.
This wasn't just a condition; this was genuinely pouring in massive resources!
Chapter 48: I Choose Imperial Capital University! Aunt Lu Hui's Family in Shock!
"Director Feng, you're playing dirty!"
Director Su Qingyue bit her red lips, sounding rather unwilling:
"As for the Divine Blessing, our Modu University truly cannot manage to invite one."
"The Cardinal of the Holy See, there are only a few in the entire Yanlong Country, and they are all in the capital."
Director Xia Hui also sighed and smiled bitterly:
"Although Jiangnan University also has a branch of the Holy See,
at most we can only invite a White-robed Bishop, and the blessing effect is far too inferior."
He looked at Lu Li and shook his head helplessly:
"We truly cannot offer this condition.
But Lu Li, if you are willing to come to us, we can apply for S-rank resources for you."
He tried to make one last effort.
Feng Zhengxiong laughed heartily, evidently very satisfied with this effect.
He looked at Lu Li, his expression turning serious:
"Alright, the conditions of all schools have been stated."
"Student Lu Li, now make your choice."
In an instant, three gazes focused on Lu Li once again.
Director Qin Lan held her breath.
Lu Li fell into silence.
After a slight thought, he finally spoke.
"I choose Imperial Capital Professional University."
During this period, he had already thought it through long ago.
The Capital is the capital of Yanlong Country.
The absolute center of politics, economy, and culture, and a gathering place for resources.
The development prospects there are better, and he can get in touch with more powerhouses.
As for the Divine Blessing mentioned by Feng Zhengxiong, it could be considered an unexpected pleasant surprise!
A minimum of 50% experience and attribute bonus, lasting for a whole year?
For him, who possessed a system,
and whose leveling was already extremely fast like a cheat, it was simply like adding wings to a tiger!
"Good!"
A bright smile appeared on Feng Zhengxiong's face as he heavily slapped the table:
"A wise choice!"
Director Su Qingyue and Director Xia Hui exchanged a glance. Although regretful, they could only accept it.
"Director Feng, congratulations, you've got a good seedling."
"Student Lu Li, if there is a chance in the future, you are welcome to visit Modu for exchanges."
"The doors of Jiangnan University are also always open for you."
The two stood up, offered a few polite congratulations, and hurriedly left the conference room.
Since they failed to recruit Lu Li, they had to rush to Chengdu immediately.
There was still Lin Qingyu with an S-rank talent there!
After the two left,
Feng Zhengxiong took out a contract scroll glowing with a faint golden light from his portable spatial ring.
"This is the special recruitment contract of Imperial Capital Professional University.
All the conditions I promised just now have been written on it."
He handed it to Lu Li: "Sign it."
Lu Li took it and carefully looked through it.
Scholarship: 6 million yanlong coins (distributed after the contract is signed).
Equipment: Level 20 Epic-grade set (claimed after reaching the level).
Special Reward: Within one week of enrollment, arrange a Cardinal's 'Divine Blessing'.
The terms were clear without any word games.
Lu Li picked up his pen and signed his name at the end of the contract.
Hum—
When his last stroke fell, the contract scroll suddenly burst into brilliant golden light!
A complex magical rune flew out from the scroll,
transforming into a small golden mark that gently imprinted on the back of Lu Li's hand.
Then it faded and disappeared.
"This is the exclusive magic seal of Imperial Capital Professional University."
Feng Zhengxiong smiled and explained:
"It is both your identity credential and the witness of the contract."
"If we fail to fulfill our promises according to the contract later, you can just find any court to sue us, and this magic seal will be ironclad proof."
Lu Li touched the back of his hand and nodded to show he understood.
"Alright, the serious business is finished."
Feng Zhengxiong put away the scroll, his tone becoming much more relaxed:
"Now that the college entrance examination scores have been announced, what are your plans next?
Are you planning to rest for a while, or..."
"I haven't thought about it yet." Lu Li answered truthfully.
"Then I'll give you a suggestion."
Feng Zhengxiong smiled: "Imperial Capital Professional University, although it nominally has winter and summer vacations,
the vast majority of students do not choose to leave school.
After all, the school's dungeon resources, training facilities, and library are much better than at home.
Three days later, Imperial Capital University will finish admitting all freshmen and open registration in advance.
At that time, you can directly come to report for admission."
"Can I report for admission so soon?"
Lu Li was stunned for a moment.
It was only June 20th.
According to the process of ordinary universities, enrollment wouldn't happen until September 1st.
"Of course, it has been like this every year.
And the vast majority of each year's freshmen enroll at this time."
Feng Zhengxiong took out a business card and handed it to Lu Li:
"This is my private contact information. If you have any questions, you can contact me."
"Alright, I won't disturb you any more. I look forward to you contacting me."
He patted Lu Li's shoulder and turned to leave the conference room.
The moment the door closed—
"Whew..."
Director Qin Lan let out a long breath and slumped heavily into the chair beside her.
She raised her hand to wipe the fine sweat from her temples and smiled bitterly:
"The coercion of these third-transfer professionals is too terrifying.
Just now when they stared at you and waited for you to make a decision, I didn't even dare to breathe too heavily."
Lu Li smiled and didn't speak.
He actually felt the pressure too.
But that was more of a natural suppression brought by level and strength, not intentionally released by the other party.
"However... That's great!"
Director Qin Lan suddenly stood up, a bright smile blooming on her cold and gorgeous face:
"Imperial Capital Professional University! Divine Blessing! Lu Li, you've really stepped into the heavens in a single bound this time!"
She walked up to Lu Li and patted his shoulder hard:
"Congratulations!"
Lu Li looked at the sincere joy in her eyes and also smiled:
"Congratulations to you too."
"Mian City has produced a provincial top scorer, and you, Director Qin Lan, as the head of the Education Bureau,
your political achievements this year are probably going to soar into the sky as well."
Director Qin Lan was stunned for a moment, and then burst out laughing.
That's right.
The provincial top scorer came from Mian City.
And she was the one who personally discovered, nurtured, and sent him off to the exam...
This merit was enough for her to take a giant step forward in her official career!
"If I can become the vice mayor in the future, I will definitely credit you with the top contribution!"
Director Qin Lan was in an extremely good mood.
Treading in high heels, she walked side by side with Lu Liout of the conference room.
At the end of the corridor, Aunt Lu Hui, Jiang Wenyuan, and Jiang Yao had been waiting for a long time.
Seeing the two come out, they immediately swarmed around.
"Xiaoli, how was it? Which school did you choose?"
Aunt Lu Hui spoke first, her voice even trembling slightly.
"I chose Imperial Capital Professional University."
Lu Li looked at his family's concerned gazes and smiled slightly.
"Imperial Capital University!"
Jiang Wenyuan let out a long sigh of relief and heavily patted Lu Li's shoulder:
"Good! That is the best institution of higher learning in our Yanlong Country!"
"Not only are the educational resources the best,"
Director Qin Lan added with a smile from the side: "The special recruitment conditions are also the best.
The 6 million yanlong coins scholarship will be distributed all at once.
A set of Level 20 Epic-grade equipment can be claimed as soon as Lu Li reaches the level, and there is also..."
She paused, a look of amazement flashing through her beautiful eyes:
"A Divine Blessing opportunity even more precious than S-rank resources!"
"What?!"
"6 million?!"
"Epic-grade equipment?!"
"A Divine Blessing more precious than S-rank resources?"
"..."
Three exclamations sounded at the same time.
Aunt Lu Hui was completely dumbfounded, opening her mouth and unable to speak for a long time.
Jiang Wenyuan sucked in a breath of cold air.
As a businessman, he knew all too well how difficult it was to earn 6 million yanlong coins.
Having worked hard for most of his life, he didn't even have that much circulating capital on him!
Yet when it came to Lu Li, they would give it just for going!
Jiang Yao was also stunned, her cold and clear eyes widening slightly.
She knew Lu Li was strong, but she didn't expect
that he could be strong enough for Imperial Capital University to offer such near-crazy conditions!
Chapter 49 Where Did Lu Li Go? Lin Qingyu's Choice!
"Wonderful, this is a tremendous stroke of good fortune!"
After recovering from her shock, Aunt Lu Hui smiled from ear to ear:
"To celebrate Xiaoli successfully passing the special recruitment, I'll cook tonight!
What do you all want to eat? Tell me!"
As she spoke, she turned to Director Qin Lan and warmly invited:
"Director Qin Lan, why don't you join us for dinner?
Today really thanks to you..."
"Aunt Lu, you are too polite, this is what I should do."
Director Qin Lan quickly waved her hand and politely declined with a smile:
"However, there is still work to handle at the bureau, so I won't intrude on your family reunion."
She had a strong sense of propriety and knew she wasn't suited to participate in such a family occasion.
She looked at Lu Li, her eyes filled with sincere blessings:
"Lu Li, enjoy the upcoming vacation, it will be hard work once you go to Capital."
"Thank you, Sister Qin." Lu Li nodded.
Director Qin Lan nodded, then turned and left in her high heels.
The wine-red skirt hem traced an elegant arc in the air.
"Mom, I want to eat braised pig trotters!"
After Director Qin Lan left, Jiang Yao spoke up first.
Her aloof face rarely revealed a touch of girlish coquetterie.
"Aunt Lu, I'll just have twice-cooked pork." Lu Li also smiled.
"Alright then! Braised pig trotters, twice-cooked pork, I'll stir-fry a few more dishes!"
Aunt Lu Hui beamed with joy, pulling her husband as she walked out:
"Let's go, Old Jiang, to the vegetable market to buy the freshest meat!"
The family happily left the Education Bureau.
They bought the groceries first, then drove back to the Yundingyuan Villa.
...
Meanwhile, in Qingyang County, the Su family.
Su Ran sat alone in her bedroom.
Her phone screen was lit up, showing the final rankings of the Sichuan Province gaokao.
Her gaze stared fixedly at the name in first place.
Lu Li (Qingyang County No. 3 High School)
Total Score: 998
Ranking: 1
"Lu Li... Provincial Top Scholar..."
She muttered to herself.
Her fingers swiped unconsciously, finding her own score:
Su Ran (Qingyang County No. 3 High School)
Total Score: 587
Ranking: 89,247th
"Eighty-nine thousandth..." She fell into silence.
Without Lu Li's support, her team struggled hard in the gaokao dungeon.
That newly found priest made a healing mistake at a critical moment, causing the whole team to fall into a monster encirclement.
She tried her utmost to barely clear the level, getting only a C rating, and dragging the time out by nearly 4 minutes.
Her past pride was now shattered all over the floor.
"If... If I hadn't kicked him away back then..."
This thought popped up uncontrollably.
But reality had no ifs.
That youth who once revolved around her was now standing at a height she could not look up to.
...
Chengdu, Lin Family Manor.
In the elegant living room, Lin Qingyu sat upright on a carved wooden chair.
She had already changed into a moon-white long dress.
Her ink-black hair cascaded down her shoulders like a waterfall, and her black eyes were calm and waveless.
Opposite her, the three directors, Feng Zhengxiong, Director Su Qingyue, and Director Xia Hui, gathered together once again.
"Student Lin, the conditions of our three universities have all been stated, which one do you choose?"
Director Su Qingyue asked.
Compared to the conditions given to Lu Li, the conditions given to Lin Qingyu were even better.
After all, Lin Qingyu was a combat class.
In their view, Lu Li being able to win the provincial top scholar took advantage of quite a few dungeon elements.
Holy Light naturally restrained death-type dungeons.
If it were another dungeon, who would take the provincial top scholar really wasn't certain.
Inside the room, the three of them looked at Lin Qingyuwith some anticipation.
Facing the gazes of three Tier 3 powerhouses, this aloof and stunningly beautiful young girl's expression did not change.
She only gently raised her eyes and asked an unexpected question:
"Which school did Lu Li choose?"
All three of them were startled.
Feng Zhengxiong reacted first, a flash of shrewd light crossing his eyes:
"He chose Imperial Capital Professional University."
Lin Qingyu nodded and parted her red lips to say:
"Then I choose Imperial Capital Professional University as well."
Director Su Qingyue sat up straight abruptly:
"Student Lin, won't you reconsider?
Modu's Wind Howl Dungeon is extremely valuable for a wind-type sword princess like you!"
"No need."
Lin Qingyu's voice was aloof, yet resolute, "I am going to Capital."
Director Xia Hui sighed and shook his head with a bitter smile:
"Fine, fine.
Director Feng, you guys really... struck gold this year."
Feng Zhengxiong could no longer hide the smile on his face at this moment, his mouth practically stretching to his earlobes.
He slapped his thigh hard and said repeatedly:
"Good, good, good! Welcome Student Lin to join Imperial Capital University!"
Feng Zhengxiong quickly took out the special recruitment contract scroll, golden light flowing, "Sign it!"
Lin Qingyu picked up her pen and left clear and graceful handwriting on the scroll.
Magic runes soared, and the golden imprint hid into the back of her hand.
After Director Su Qingyue and Director Xia Hui said their goodbyes and left, only Feng Zhengxiong and Lin Qingyuwere left in the living room.
Looking at the aloof-tempered young girl before him, Feng Zhengxiong became more and more satisfied the more he looked.
He couldn't help rubbing his hands together and smiled:
"Student Lin, you and Student Lu Li... know each other?"
Lin Qingyu raised her eyes to look at him, her black eyes like a pool of cold spring water:
"We met once during the gaokao."
Pausing for a moment, she rarely asked one more question:
"When is he reporting to school?"
"Lu Li should be reporting in three days."
Feng Zhengxiong smiled, "What, does Student Lin also want to go to school early?"
Lin Qingyu was silent for a moment, and softly gave an "Mn."
"Not bad."
Feng Zhengxiong nodded, his mood quite pleasant:
"Enrolling early allows you to enjoy the excellent resources of Imperial Capital University sooner."
S-rank Talent!
Extremely rare, every year during the gaokao, a province might not even produce one!
Now Sichuan Province alone has produced two.
One S+-rank, one S-rank.
And all of them entered their Imperial Capital University.
He seemed to already see the scene of the Sichuan Province twin stars shining brilliantly together on the freshman leaderboard of Imperial Capital University this year.
This year's admissions made an absolute fortune!
...
There were three days left before reporting to Imperial Capital University.
During this period, Lu Li made a trip back to Qingyang County to tidy up and take away some old items.
Actually, it was mainly his mother's photographs.
After all, the large flat that Director Qin Lan gave him was fully furnished and ready for immediate move-in, requiring no additional purchases at all.
But unexpectedly, as soon as he stepped into the familiar residential complex, Lu Li was startled by the array before him.
"Aiyo! Isn't this our county's top scholar back!"
"Lu Li ah! Let Auntie take a look! This vigor and spirit are just different from before!"
"If that brat of mine could have half your success, I'd wake up smiling in my dreams!"
"..."
The neighbors, who were already enthusiastic, were even more enthusiastic to the point of boiling over at this moment.
Quite a few people directly pulled their half-grown children over to surround him.
One touched Lu Li's arm, another patted his back.
Muttering in their mouths, "Rub off some auspiciousness" and "rub off some top scholar luck."
Regarding this, Lu Li didn't know whether to laugh or cry, but he let them observe him anyway.
He just didn't expect that when he was carrying his things ready to leave the residential complex,
even people from the county Education Bureau had come.
"Student Lu Li! Congratulations, congratulations!"
The Education Bureau director walked up quickly, grabbed Lu Li's hand and shook it vigorously:
"You are the first provincial top scholar in the history of Qingyang County! You've brought glory to the entire county!"
Several staff members followed behind him.
Someone was holding a bright red sash, someone was holding a replica trophy, and someone was carrying a video camera.
"The bureau has decided to confer upon you the title of 'Outstanding Student of Qingyang County' and award a scholarship of 500,000 yuan!"
The director's voice was loud and clear, signaling the staff to hand over an enlarged check model:
"Come on, look at the camera, let's take a group photo!"
Lu Li: "..."
Although he felt this array was a bit exaggerated, he still cooperatively accepted the check model.
Standing next to the deputy director, he flashed a standard smile towards the camera.
After all, the educational resources in the county were limited these years, and being able to pull out 500,000 yuan in solid cash showed absolute sincerity.
Chapter 50: There's No Going Back! Setting Off for Capital!
After playing along and saying a few nice words, Lu Li was finally able to get away.
However, just as he walked out of the residential complex's entrance,
he turned a corner and saw a familiar figure.
It was Su Ran.
She was wearing a light-colored dress with her long hair flowing loose, as if she had dressed up specially.
"Lu Li, congratulations on becoming the provincial top scorer."
She spoke first, her beautiful eyes fixed on Lu Li.
"Thank you." Lu Li gave a flat reply, not stopping his steps.
"Lu Li!"
Su Ran panicked, hurriedly blocking his path and lifting her head.
The moment their eyes met, Su Ran's eye sockets turned slightly red.
"I know, it was my fault before.
I was blind back then, unable to see your good points, and said a lot of terrible things."
Her voice grew softer and softer, eventually turning into almost a murmur:
"I regret it."
Those four words seemed to drain all her strength, and she raised her head, looking at Lu Li with a trace of hope:
"Can we… still go back to the past?"
Lu Li looked at her, his gaze so calm that there wasn't even a ripple of emotion.
Compared to that time at the Training Camp, Su Ran had changed quite a bit.
She had shed her habitual arrogance and gained a layer of subservience he had never seen before.
Yet her tears and capitulation failed to stir even a single ripple in his eyes.
Ever since he was kicked off the team during the mock exam, there had been nothing left for them to say.
"There's no going back."
Lu Li's voice was calm, untainted by any sharp emotions.
Then, without the slightest hesitation, he walked straight away.
Leaving behind a sorrowful Su Ran…
After returning to Mian City, the Municipal Education Bureau over at Director Qin Lan's side also came looking for him.
Lu Li was still very grateful to Director Qin Lan, Director Li Jianguo, and their group.
So he cooperated in doing quite a bit of publicity.
In addition, quite a few commercials came knocking.
Most of them were some potion manufacturers.
They wanted his title as the provincial top scorer to promote them.
They even offered a high price of three to four million.
However, having already received the 6 million scholarship from Imperial Capital University, he naturally had no interest in this.
The only advertisement he ran was for Aunt Lu Hui's family's potion company.
This could also be considered a reward for their help over the years.
After the advertisement aired, Aunt Lu Hui's family company's order volume directly multiplied by more than twenty times.
Making Aunt Lu Hui's family beam with joy.
Just like that, three days flashed by in an instant.
In the blink of an eye, the day to set off for Imperial Capital University arrived.
Early this morning, outside the Mian City High-Speed Railway Station, the morning light was faint.
"Xiao Li, Capital is not like a small city like ours.
Everywhere there are high-level professionals; hidden dragons and crouching tigers abound."
Aunt Lu Hui helped Lu Li tidy his collar—which wasn't messy to begin with—while chattering away:
"When you get over there, you must be steady in your speech and actions.
If you really run into any trouble you can't solve,
be sure, be sure to find the school teachers first, don't try to tough it out on your own, you know?"
"Rest assured, Aunt, I won't cause trouble."
Lu Li looked at the caring face before him, a warm current surging in his heart.
After his mother passed away, only his aunt's family had given him a warmth like that of a home.
Pausing for a moment, he then remembered something and said:
"That's right, Aunt.
These past few years, treating my mom's illness and paying for my schooling, you advanced a lot of money.
I just transferred two million to your account, check and see if it has arrived."
"Two million?!"
Aunt Lu Hui was stunned, quickly taking out her phone, and sure enough, she saw the bank's arrival text message.
She immediately panicked:
"No, no! Keep this money for yourself!
In that place called Capital, money flows like water. Since you've just gone there, there are plenty of places where you'll need money!"
As she spoke, she was about to operate her phone to transfer the money back.
"Aunt."
Lu Li pressed down on her hand, saying with an earnest look:
"My mom only had you as her own biological sister.
During those years when she was gravely ill, we relied entirely on you guys to contribute money and effort in taking care of her.
If you don't accept this money, my conscience will be ill at ease.
I think my mom's spirit in heaven would definitely not want me to become an ungrateful person."
Before, he lacked the ability, and the favors he owed could only be kept in his heart.
Now that he had the ability, he had to repay them.
"This…"
Mentioning her older sister, Aunt Lu Hui's eye sockets became even redder, and her movements hesitated.
"Just accept it."
Jiang Wenyuan put his arm around his wife's shoulders and gently advised:
"Xiao Li got a 6 million scholarship right upon entering school, and his future prospects are even more immeasurable.
Are you still afraid he'll lack money to spend? This is the child's filial piety."
S+-rank talent! Sichuan Province provincial top scorer!
He was very optimistic about Lu Li's future.
"Then Aunt will help you save this money first.
When you get a wife in the future, I'll take it out and use it."
Aunt Lu Hui wiped the corner of her eyes and finally stopped insisting.
"Aunt, you're thinking way too far ahead."
Lu Li laughed despite himself upon hearing this.
In his memory, his mother before she passed away always loved to tease him about getting a wife, and even said she hoped he would marry a few more.
He didn't expect that after his mother passed away, this obsession was perfectly inherited by Aunt Lu Hui.
"Alright, the time is almost up, you guys hurry back."
Lu Li looked at the timetable on the station's big screen and picked up his simple suitcase:
"When I arrive at Imperial Capital University and get settled, I'll give you news."
"Remember to report that you're safe when you arrive!"
"Stay in touch!"
"…"
Amidst the gazes of several people, Lu Li waved his hand and turned to walk inside the high-speed railway station.
"This child is too sensible.
Back then, treating his mother's illness, where did it cost that much money?"
Until Lu Li's figure merged into the security check crowds and completely disappeared,
Aunt Lu Hui withdrew her gaze, sighing with a mixture of gratification and emotion.
"Indeed."
Jiang Wenyuan also emotionly said, "However, a fledgling eagle spreads its wings; with Xiao Li going this time, I'm afraid he's going to soar straight into the blue clouds."
"Of course, are there any bad kids who can enter Capital Academy?"
"And he was specially recruited in with the identity of the provincial top scorer."
Aunt Lu Hui's face was full of pride.
"That's true."
Jiang Wenyuan smiled and said somewhat hesitantly:
"However, I remember the Ye family also seems to be in Capital, right?
Xiao Li going over there, will he…"
"They dare!"
Aunt Lu Hui suddenly turned her head, her willow eyebrows standing on end, and her voice raised by several pitches:
"It wasn't enough to ruin my sister, and they still want to touch Xiao Li?
If they dare to touch a single hair on Xiao Li's head, I'll risk my life and go to Capital to turn things upside down!"
"Don't get excited, I was just saying that."
Jiang Wenyuan hurriedly appeased, "It's been so many years, they probably forgot all about it long ago."
"Dad, Mom, what are you guys talking about? So mysterious?"
Jiang Yao by the side was a bit bewildered listening to them.
"Nothing, nothing."
Jiang Wenyuan hurriedly shook his head, and Aunt Lu Huialso reacted, changing the subject and saying:
"Yaoyao, have you chosen your college choices yet?"
"Yeah, all seven choices are filled out, just waiting for the admission results."
Jiang Yao nodded, although she still had doubts in her heart.
Seeing that her parents were unwilling to talk much about it, she didn't pursue it further.
Only vaguely did she remember that a long time ago, her cousin didn't seem to have the last name Lu.
At that time, was he still called… Ye Li?