Jared chuckled coldly. “Pride? No… What I saw was blind conceit. Up here, strength rules all. Yet Celestia waves books and etiquette like medals, convinced that reading a few scrolls makes you superior. The reality?”

“Your students lose in cultivation, lose in knowledge, and when cornered, they brandish their so-called ‘celestial bloodline’ like a shield. That is the mindset of ignorant people.”

His words struck true. Yuliana wanted a rebuttal, but none came. Back in the academy, Jared had quoted heaven and earth laws and cultivation theory with such clarity that even she, an advisor to the king, had felt enlightened.

In contrast, a student of the academy could only recite scripture by rote, then resort to raw cultivation level when their arguments collapsed. and still lost an arm for the effort.

“Ahead lies Myriad Treasures Pavilion,” said, shifting the subject like turning a page. “Treasures from every corner of the celestial realm rest inside. Your ability is impressive, Mr. Chance, but your cultivation level is still a touch low. You might find some magical items suited to you in there to increase your cultivation level.”

The invitation dripped with courtesy, yet inside watched keenly.

If powerful patrons backed him, would show no hunger for magical items. If were a wandering cultivator, Myriad Treasures Pavilion’s trove might light greed in his eyes.