Afterward. Zhong Shenxiu brought Robin along, thinking, "If he hasn't lifted the restrictions on Wen Ji and the others, we'll have dealings again in the future; no need to rush!"

This time, for the "Academy Ranking Tournament," Zhong Shenxiu achieved both fame and fortune. His status was now even more significant than the Headmaster's because he had created a miracle for the "Shut-in Magic and Martial Arts Academy." Winning the championship also meant that the "Shut-in Magic and Martial Arts Academy" could finally participate in the "Royal Competition!"

This was exhilarating news, and the entire school erupted in celebration!

Returning to the academy, Zhong Shenxiu and his group were like returning warriors, receiving a grand welcome.

The academy was generous, awarding every student a scholarship of ten thousand Diamond Coins as encouragement! As for the supervising teachers—Zhong Shenxiu, Robin, and Angelia—they each received a bonus of one hundred thousand Diamond Coins!

Although this sum felt small to Zhong Shenxiu, he accepted it gladly; every bit of money counted!

Just as the school leadership was preparing to host a victory banquet for Zhong Shenxiu and the others, Zhong Shenxiu unexpectedly submitted his resignation.

This was like a bolt from the blue for the school administrators. How could such a capable teacher resign? Did he have some dissatisfaction with the "Shut-in Magic and Martial Arts Academy"? Or had another academy offered him a lucrative position elsewhere?

The more they thought about it, the more likely it seemed. These administrators were acutely aware of Zhong Shenxiu's value. Such an incredible teacher absolutely could not be poached by another institution—absolutely not!

Furthermore, they were counting on Zhong Shenxiu to lead the "Shut-in Magic and Martial Arts Academy" to glory in the "Royal Competition." How could they possibly let him just walk away?!

In reality, Zhong Shenxiu's reasons for leaving were not what they imagined. He had his own affairs to attend to and couldn't remain tied to one location indefinitely. His initial reason for applying for a teaching position was partly for amusement and partly for access to the academy's books. Now that he had achieved both objectives, it was time to withdraw.

The administrators were unaware of Zhong Shenxiu's true intentions, and even if they had known, they wouldn't have let him leave so easily. They offered a series of enticing conditions: even without teaching, he could receive ten times his salary, enjoy the highest level of access, and select any number of books from the library without limitation—they were practically ready to hand the entire "Shut-in Magic and Martial Arts Academy" over to him!

When they learned that Zhong Shenxiu would no longer have time to teach classes, they immediately stated that his absence from lecturing was fine; he only needed to maintain his title, salary, and benefits would continue, and they would absolutely not interfere with any of his affairs!

These administrators weren't foolish; even if Zhong Shenxiu didn't teach, as long as he retained the title of a teacher at the "Shut-in Magic and Martial Arts Academy," he couldn't be poached by other institutions!

Seeing their sincerity and the excellent terms offered, Zhong Shenxiu agreed to redraft his contract with them. The new agreement stipulated that he would not resign from his teaching post but would enjoy absolute freedom!

Zhong Shenxiu might not resign, but that didn't mean he wouldn't leave!

When Wayne and the others heard that Zhong Shenxiu would no longer be teaching them, they were all deeply saddened. The joy of winning the championship instantly evaporated, replaced by a feeling that something essential was missing from their hearts!

Fortunately, while they were anxiously waiting, Zhong Shenxiu sent Angelia to gather them together. These were all the students who had not been swayed by the "Stacy Family" during the finals!

"Teacher Zhong, please don't go?" Daisy pleaded, her eyes red and slightly spoiled.

The others chimed in, expressing their reluctance to see him leave. Having spent so much time with Zhong Shenxiu, they had long regarded him as family. Although he usually maintained a stern demeanor, counting from the first day of school, they realized he had never once lost his temper with them!

Glancing at the group, Zhong Shenxiu asked, with rare seriousness, "Do you all want to follow me?"

Everyone was momentarily stunned, offering no reply, mainly because they couldn't discern the deeper meaning behind Zhong Shenxiu's sudden question.

Thankfully, Zhong Shenxiu rephrased his inquiry: "Do you wish to join my 'Ethereal Mercenary Group'?"

This time, everyone understood. Zhong Shenxiu intended to take them with him. It was the first time they had heard that Zhong Shenxiu commanded a mercenary group. They were momentarily taken aback but quickly recovered.

"I want to join!" Solomon was the first to speak.

He deeply understood how rare such an opportunity was. If Zhong Shenxiu hadn't been teaching at the "Shut-in Magic and Martial Arts Academy," he would have already applied for early graduation to gain experience elsewhere. This was undoubtedly a perfect chance now!

Having been rejected by Zhong Shenxiu once before, he understood the importance of seizing opportunities, lest he regret missing out!

Zhong Shenxiu nodded at Solomon and asked the others, "Anyone else?"

"I'll join too!" Laurent was the second to say so.

He had tasted the bitterness of failure and understood the heartache of pursuing strength. But since studying under Zhong Shenxiu, despite the hardship, his progress had been meteoric—a fact visible to all. He also realized this opportunity was precious, and he genuinely wished to remain with Solomon.

Seeing her younger brother join, Elena, who also held an agreement with Zhong Shenxiu, ultimately decided to join as well.

Mark Xin, seeing Elena join, didn't want to be left out and enlisted too. Her father was already working for Zhong Shenxiu, so joining Zhong Shenxiu's mercenary group was no issue. More importantly, she could remain by Elena's side and learn many profound skills from Zhong Shenxiu!

Leng Xiangxue hesitated, repeatedly glancing at Angelia. Seeing Angelia show no reaction only made her more conflicted. After prolonged hesitation, she finally couldn't resist and quietly moved closer to Angelia, whispering, "Angelia, aren't you joining?"

Angelia turned to look at Leng Xiangxue and replied very calmly, "I have been a member of the 'Ethereal Mercenary Group' for a long time!"

Leng Xiangxue blinked in surprise. She had waited for Angelia's decision for so long, only to find out she had already joined. Luckily, she had asked!

"I'll join too!" Leng Xiangxue suddenly exclaimed. Due to her excitement, her voice was a bit loud, immediately drawing everyone's attention.

Angelia was startled by Leng Xiangxue's outburst and looked at her with some surprise, as if asking why she was so agitated!

Leng Xiangxue finally realized her lapse in composure. Her usually composed face flushed slightly, but her eyes were fixed firmly on Zhong Shenxiu.

In the end, everyone joined the "Ethereal Mercenary Group." Zhong Shenxiu had not misjudged these individuals.

Subsequently, Zhong Shenxiu dropped a bomb that surprised and thrilled them all: "For the next two years, you do not need to attend school. From now on, you must focus entirely on preparing for the 'Royal Competition'."

What did this mean? Did it imply that Zhong Shenxiu would personally train them over the next two years? Would they be accompanying Zhong Shenxiu on journeys of experience during this time?

The more they pondered, the more anticipation they felt. They were convinced that with Zhong Shenxiu by their side, even perilous places like the Unreturnable Forest, the Illusory Forest, or the Desperate Forest would pose no danger to them!

However, their excitement did not last long. The next words from Zhong Shenxiu left them utterly dumbfounded.

"During my absence, you must strictly follow the training plans I have set for you. I will personally check them upon my return," Zhong Shenxiu stated flatly.

Everyone froze, as the implication of his statement was clear: he would not be with them during this period.

How could this be?

No one had anticipated this outcome. They thought joining the "Ethereal Mercenary Group" meant staying with Zhong Shenxiu continuously, only to learn he would still be leaving them!

"Teacher Zhong, how long will you be gone?" Daisy asked weakly.

The others also desperately wanted to know the answer and stared intently at Zhong Shenxiu. How they wished he were just taking a short trip, returning in two or three days! But reality often ran contrary to desire!

"The quickest might be half a year; the longest, three to five years!" As he said this, Zhong Shenxiu unexpectedly glanced at Robin.

Robin currently didn't know that this decision was entirely for her sake.

Robin's current cultivation level was the "Heart Stirring Stage" (), a critical threshold for any cultivator, holding vital importance for future advancements. Robin had been with Zhong Shenxiu for so long yet had never undergone a proper seclusion for advancement. Although Zhong Shenxiu's help ensured she could smoothly advance to the "Spiritual Stillness Stage" (), doing so this way would greatly hinder Robin's long-term cultivation!

Therefore, this time, Zhong Shenxiu planned to take Robin into seclusion, making her break through the "Spiritual Stillness Stage" through her own enlightenment!

By Zhong Shenxiu’s estimation, Robin's seclusion would take at least six months, and given her intelligence, at most four or five years. Thus, the return time was entirely dependent on Robin.

For this seclusion, Zhong Shenxiu didn't plan to go too far. The "Damp Forest" () was an excellent choice: beautiful scenery, abundant spiritual energy, and easily secured with a few array formations.

Choosing the "Damp Forest" had another advantage: Zhong Shenxiu could use this time to thoroughly organize his recent research and inventions, as well as develop more new products for the "Darkness Guild."

Robin sensed the care in his gaze and paused slightly, but she asked no questions.

When the others heard Zhong Shenxiu would be gone for so long, their faces soured, and half of their recently sparked excitement vanished.

After giving a few more instructions, Zhong Shenxiu dismissed them.

Two years of leave from school was no small matter; Wayne and the others had to apply to the school leadership. However, when the administrators learned that these students were taking leave to prepare for the "Royal Competition" two years hence, and furthermore, that they had Zhong Shenxiu's authorization, they approved the request without a second thought.

When the administrators heard that Elena had a close, ambiguous relationship with Zhong Shenxiu, after some deliberation, they decided to grant Elena the same benefits as Zhong Shenxiu. Their main reason for treating Elena so well was to secure her advocacy on Zhong Shenxiu's behalf at a critical juncture.

Thus, the academy matters were settled. Zhong Shenxiu truly dedicated himself to these students; he spent a full day and night tailoring a personalized training regimen for each of them. Following this plan, they could remedy their individual shortcomings and push their strengths to their absolute limits!

Of course, Zhong Shenxiu also devised a comprehensive group plan aimed at fostering cooperation among them while encouraging mutual motivation!

After completing this, Zhong Shenxiu felt it wasn't enough. He subsequently took turns instructing Kenny, Charlotte, Gandalf, and the others, simultaneously taking on the role of their supervisor!

Once all these tasks were done, Zhong Shenxiu departed with Robin.

Setting aside how Zhong Shenxiu guided Robin into seclusion for a moment, Wayne and the others led lives that were extremely "fulfilling," and their progress was remarkably evident. Details that were previously unclear or overlooked now brought them moments of understanding, once again inspiring their profound admiration for Zhong Shenxiu's wisdom.

They sparred with each other daily, sometimes with Charlotte and the others joining in, so their combat experience grew daily!

There was just one aspect they couldn't fathom: Zhong Shenxiu had tasked Professor Stanley and Faraday with teaching them the principles of "Dark Magic"! Admittedly, for now, it was only theoretical; he had mentioned nothing about actual cultivation or casting techniques!

Though utterly perplexed, everyone knew Zhong Shenxiu must have a deep purpose, so each person studied diligently.

During a rest period, Charlotte approached Kenny, as she had a question weighing heavily on her mind that she intended to ask today.

"Charlotte, is something wrong?" Kenny noticed immediately that Charlotte had something on her mind.

"Kenny, can I ask you a question?" Charlotte sat down alongside Kenny, her expression serious.

"What is it? Ask away!" Kenny maintained her usual smile.

"Where did the Group Leader and Robin go? Do you know?" Charlotte stared directly at Kenny. A month had passed, and the sense of emptiness in her heart was growing stronger.

"I don't know the exact location!"

"Do you know what they went to do?" Charlotte leaned closer to Kenny, lowering her voice as if not wanting others to overhear.

She was well aware that among the group, apart from Robin, Kenny had the closest relationship with Zhong Shenxiu.

Kenny looked up at the white clouds drifting overhead, then said softly, "Xiao Xiu went to help Robin increase her strength!"

"What?" Charlotte's eyes nearly popped out of her head. Robin was already freakishly strong, yet he was going to increase her power further???