2784 Passing
“His provocative expression seemed to challenge, ‘Do you dare to step forward and attempt the heaven-rank items test tablet?’ Qiao Mu’s cold gaze caught his taunting look. She was well aware that these people were merely relishing the spectacle.

“So, the mentors of the esteemed Imperial Academy are of this ilk? Well, then, it hardly matters what unfolds,” Qiao Mu retorted icily, her sneer unabated.

Qi Duo and the middle-aged mentor beside him instantly turned bright red with embarrassment.

“Miss, your assessment of these individuals is somewhat amiss,” a voice chimed in from the back of the crowd.

A man in white robes approached slowly, exuding an air of grace and composure. Though time had etched lines on his face, he remained dignified and noble.

“Dean.”

“Dean!”

Qi Duo and the surrounding guards all offered their respectful salutations. Regardless of his inner thoughts, Qi Duo maintained a facade of respect for the Dean.

Yun Piaomiao subtly assessed them before turning to Qiao Mu and her companions, nodding with a smile. “You must be the individuals who received the invitation letter personally sent by me.”

“Your name is Qiao Mu, correct?” Yun Piaomiao inquired with a smile. “You might not be aware that receiving an invitation letter personally issued by the Dean means you bypass the entrance examination and can directly enter the academy.”

Realization dawned on Qiao Mu and her companions, prompting them to glance simultaneously at the bald Director. They couldn’t help but inwardly chuckle at his mortified expression.

“Seems like the Director has just been served a slice of humble pie. He’s receiving a thorough lesson in humility courtesy of the Dean,” they thought.

Director Qi Duo cleared his throat and mumbled in a subdued tone, “It was an oversight on my part. I had forgotten about this rule. After all, it has been several years since the academy received a personally issued invitation letter from the Dean.”

Dean Yun paid no heed to the others and smiled at Qiao Mu and her group. “Please, follow me.”

As the students currently testing at the stone tablet saw the Dean personally welcoming Qiao Mu and her companions, a hint of envy crept into their eyes.

“After all, everyone’s path in life is unique,” Qiao Duo couldn’t resist interjecting, “Dean, isn’t this a bit unconventional?”

“Oh? Do you have an alternative suggestion?” Yun Piaomiao gave Qi Duo a discerning glance, making him feel like an unwelcome intruder. An uncomfortable sensation overcame him, prompting him to continue, “These students all appear quite young, especially this young lady. Is it possible for her to be at level six in both elemental spirit and five elemental spirits at the age of 18?”

In essence, Qi Duo insinuated that Dean Yun had favored Qiao Mu, implying that she received preferential treatment. This cast a pall over the mood of those present.

“So, you placed the young lady in front of the heaven-rank items testing tablet to make her appear foolish deliberately?” Dean Yun bluntly articulated Qi Duo’s unspoken thoughts, laying bare his hidden agenda in front of everyone.

Qi Duo’s face turned an ashen shade, and he struggled to respond to the Dean’s candid revelation.

Meanwhile, Qiao Mu calmly addressed the situation, asking Dao Seeking, “What if I pass the heaven-rank items testing tablet?”
The question elicited shock from everyone present.

“Is this child oblivious to the fact that the Dean has already intervened to protect her? Why would she walk into this trap?” they wondered.

“If I pass, would you be willing to step down from your position as Director?” Qiao Mu turned to Yun Piaomiao, her gaze unwavering. “What is the Dean’s opinion on my proposal?”

Dean Yun couldn’t help but feel a tinge of exasperation.