I Became an All-round Artist

Qinzhou Academy of the Arts.

With summer vacation approaching, the instructors in one of the large classrooms of the sophomore composition department were rushing to evaluate the students' year-end assessments.

At that moment.

A commotion came from the entrance: "It's said that Qinzhou Academy is full of talent. Director Shi, I assume you wouldn't mind if we, professors from the East Academy of Arts, came to learn from your composition department, would you?"

East Academy?

The teachers in the office immediately looked up toward the door, almost in unison.

The full name of the East Academy is Qinzhou East Academy of the Arts.

It ranks second in Qinzhou's arts schools.

Originally, the East Academy also wanted to call itself "Qinzhou Academy."

But they couldn’t.

The Qinzhou Academy of the Arts was more prestigious, so the name "Qinzhou Academy" was reserved for them.

The East Academy had to settle for the nickname "East Academy."

This had been a source of resentment for the East Academy for years, as they had always coveted the top spot held by Qinzhou Academy.

The instructors were aware that the East Academy was visiting today.

But they didn't expect the composition department to drop by unannounced, and it seemed they weren’t here with good intentions.

“Everyone.”

Shi Cheng, the head of Qinzhou Academy’s composition department, entered the room with the group of professors from the East Academy.

As he led them in, Shi Cheng spoke loudly, “Let’s all welcome Professor Zhang Wenwu and the team of composition professors from the East Academy for their visit!”

A round of applause followed from the Qinzhou composition department’s instructors.

“No need to be so formal,”

Professor Zhang Wenwu from the East Academy smiled, “Qinzhou Academy has a century-old legacy, and your composition department is brimming with talent. We’re just here to learn from you today.”

More applause followed, though inwardly, many were thinking: We don’t believe a word of it!

“Let’s continue the evaluations,”

Shi Cheng gestured to calm the group, then turned to Zhang Wenwu and the others, “Please, have a seat and enjoy some tea.”

“Thank you.”

After Zhang Wenwu and the East Academy professors were seated, they began casually chatting with Shi Cheng.

“Is today your department’s review of the students' year-end projects?”

Shi Cheng nodded.

Zhang Wenwu chuckled, “We finished ours yesterday and even had the director from Glorious Silver Light’s composition department drop by. One of our sophomores was signed on the spot and was even given a weekend job offer.”

Shi Cheng’s eyelid twitched.

No wonder Zhang Wenwu had insisted on visiting Qinzhou Academy’s composition department; it was clear he was here to show off.

There was no denying it.

A sophomore getting signed by one of the top three companies in Qinzhou, with weekend office hours, was no small feat.

“By the way,”

“Did you invite anyone from the entertainment industry today?” Zhang Wenwu asked with a tone of fake concern.

Shi Cheng nodded, “We invited someone from Star Shine’s composition department.”

Zhang Wenwu clicked his tongue, “Qinzhou Academy’s connections are truly impressive.”

Shi Cheng waved it off, “We’re all on the same level.”

Zhang Wenwu smiled, “I wonder if I might have the chance to listen to some of your students’ best work. It would be interesting to see how much of a gap there is between us.”

Shi Cheng also smiled, “Of course.”

He called his assistant and, in front of Zhang Wenwu, instructed that the best works from the evaluation be brought over after the reviews.

Once the assistant left.

Zhang Wenwu made himself more comfortable, “Why don’t we make good use of our time? I brought along the best sophomore composition from our academy—the one that Glorious Silver Light heard and signed the student on the spot. How about we let you all have a listen?”

Shi Cheng replied, “We would love that.”

He was genuinely curious about what kind of piece had convinced Glorious Silver Light to sign the student right away.

Zhang Wenwu shared the song with Shi Cheng and the composition professors from Qinzhou Academy.

They all put on headphones to listen.

Halfway through the song, Shi Cheng’s expression changed.

Zhang Wenwu sipped his tea, a look of barely concealed satisfaction in his eyes.

Indeed!

He had come here today to crush Qinzhou Academy’s spirits.

Why should Qinzhou Academy receive such privileged resources every year?

The East Academy wasn’t that far behind in overall strength!

By the time the song ended, Shi Cheng was silent.

The professors behind him from Qinzhou Academy were equally astonished.

This was a composition from a sophomore student?

“Well, what do you think?” Zhang Wenwu asked, pretending to be humble.

Shi Cheng’s eyelid twitched, and he forced a smile, “It’s excellent, a rare masterpiece.”

Zhang Wenwu turned to the other Qinzhou professors.

They could only nod in agreement, “It’s indeed a great piece.”

As professionals, they couldn’t lie and say the piece wasn’t good, but given the competitive atmosphere between the two schools, it left a bitter taste in their mouths.

“Haha.”

Zhang Wenwu and the East Academy professors laughed heartily, “Professor Shi, care to guess who composed this piece?”

Shi Cheng paused, “Do I know them?”

Zhang Wenwu grinned, “Zou Yu—ring any bells?”

Shi Cheng’s face darkened instantly.

He knew Zou Yu.

Zou Yu’s father, Zou Wenhuai, was a renowned composer in Qinzhou—a musical prodigy from a family of musicians!

Like father, like son.

Under his father’s guidance, Zou Yu had been known as a genius composer since childhood. Back in high school, he had already composed a widely popular piece.

Later.

Zou Yu became the top scorer in the entrance exams two years ago, shocking the industry with his talent. Every major arts academy in Qinzhou had extended invitations to him.

But in the end.

Zou Yu had chosen the East Academy.

Qinzhou Academy, as the number one arts institution, had lost significant face at the time, and now, Zou Yu’s composition skills had reached such a high level!

If Zhang Wenwu had simply come to boast about their students’ achievements, Shi Cheng wouldn’t have felt so bad.

But since this piece was composed by Zou Yu, Shi Cheng couldn’t help but feel frustrated.

How did Qinzhou Academy miss out on such an incredible student?

Zhang Wenwu, satisfied with Shi Cheng’s reaction, teased, “Qinzhou Academy is full of talent. I’m sure there are students even more outstanding than Zou Yu. I’m really looking forward to hearing them!”

Looking forward, my foot!

Zou Yu is a genius!

Who in our academy could compare?

Shi Cheng knew his composition students well, and he was fully aware that there was no one at Qinzhou Academy who could surpass Zou Yu at the moment—

At least, not yet.

Perhaps in the future, as the students matured, they might be able to rival Zou Yu. After all, not every genius shines during their university years.

At that moment.

Shi Cheng’s assistant sent over a piece: “This is the work of Yan Mengjia from Class 5. It currently has the highest score from the mentors.”

Zhang Wenwu asked, "Can I listen to it?"

Shi Cheng had no choice but to share the song with everyone.

After listening, Zhang Wenwu nodded and said, "Not bad!"

It really was good.

Yan Mengjia was a top student in the sophomore composition department, and her song was commendable, even worthy of being released.

But it was obvious.

Compared to Zou Yu's song, there was still a significant gap. Zhang Wenwu’s praise didn’t make Shi Cheng happy; instead, it felt like a knife to the chest.

"Anything else?"

There was a hint of emotion in Shi Cheng’s voice.

The assistant nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation, and left with a solemn expression. He clearly knew Shi Cheng was not pleased.

Soon.

A few more songs were sent over, all quite excellent, and Zhang Wenwu affirmed them one by one. But the verdict remained the same—

None compared to Zou Yu!

The once-proud sophomore composition department of Qin Yi University was now being overshadowed by one student from Dong Yi University, Zou Yu.

"Sigh."

After praising a few rounds, Zhang Wenwu suddenly sighed, “Professor Shi, why are you holding back? I admit these songs are good, but I believe with a top institution like Qin Yi, there must be even better songs that you haven't shown us yet.”

Give me a break.

No need to hit someone when they’re down—leave them some dignity!

Shi Cheng rolled his eyes. Does this mean that if I don’t come up with a song better than Zou Yu’s today, I’ll have to admit that Qin Yi’s composition department is inferior to Dong Yi’s?

"Exactly."

The other professors from Dong Yi chimed in, “These songs are fine, but compared to Zou Yu’s, they’re clearly a step down.”

“I can’t believe this is all Qin Yi has to offer.”

“There’s got to be a hidden gem somewhere.”

“Come on, Professor Shi, show us something impressive.”

“Every year, Qin Yi’s educational resources are more than twice ours. We at Dong Yi have it rough, you know. Even our piano rooms are limited, and students have to queue up to use some basic facilities.”

“…”

Shi Cheng had no choice but to call his assistant over. "Tell them to hurry up and send more songs. Our friends from Dong Yi are still waiting."

"Understood."

The assistant quickly left.

The professors responsible for reviewing the students’ works understood the situation well. Dong Yi’s visit this time seemed like more than just an exchange—it was starting to feel like a challenge!

Qin Yi couldn’t afford to lose.

At first glance, this seemed like just a matter of face.

But Dong Yi wasn’t so naive. They wouldn’t travel all the way here just to show off.

If Dong Yi went back and spread the word that their composition department was superior to Qin Yi’s, what kind of impact would that have?

A counterattack was necessary.

The problem was, the songs Dong Yi brought were indeed strong, and the ones Qin Yi submitted so far were not quite up to par.

The review process was already halfway through.

Was there really a song strong enough to fight back?

The composition department professors weren’t so sure.

"Oh, right."

Zhang Wenwu smiled at Shi Cheng. "Zou Yu's song might be officially released soon. They’ve already picked a singer—apparently, it’s top-tier artist Chen Zhiyu of Radiant Silverlight!"

Shi Cheng forced a smile. "Congratulations."

To be chosen by such a high-profile artist meant Zou Yu’s song was indeed remarkable.

Zhang Wenwu shrugged. “I heard Chen Zhiyu has been looking everywhere for a new song but couldn’t find one he liked. As soon as he heard Zou Yu’s piece, he decided on the spot to perform it. This was quite unexpected for us, considering Chen Zhiyu rarely picks songs by newcomers…”

He’s showing off—hardcore.

Shi Cheng felt the sofa beneath him getting a little uncomfortable. He adjusted his posture several times but still couldn’t find relief.

At that moment.

A sudden commotion arose from a distance.

Already agitated, Shi Cheng grew more annoyed and immediately stood up. “What’s going on? How can we let our guests see us in such chaos?”

Professor Shi’s words had a double meaning.

Zhang Wenwu caught on but didn’t get angry. He simply waved it off generously. "No worries, no need to get upset."

“It seems a song just came in, and the teachers are discussing it.”

The assistant quickly explained in a low voice.

Zhang Wenwu raised an eyebrow. "Finally, another song. I knew it—there’s no way a place like Qin Yi’s composition department wouldn’t have a great song in the mix."

Shi Cheng said nothing.

He just hoped Zhang Wenwu and his group would leave soon because no matter what song came next, it would only lead to humiliation compared to Zou Yu's.

"Let’s have a listen, shall we?"

Zhang Wenwu grinned, “Surely Professor Shi isn’t that petty, right?”

“Of course not…”

Shi Cheng clenched his teeth, “Well, what are you waiting for? Bring the song.”

The assistant quickly responded, soon sending over the song while quietly mentioning, "This is by Lin Yuan from Class 5."

“Lin Yuan?”

Shi Cheng sighed inwardly.

He had a good grasp of which students had talent in the composition department, but this was the first time he had heard Lin Yuan’s name.

It seemed this Lin Yuan had performed exceptionally well to catch the teachers' attention.

Under normal circumstances, this would be great news.

But today, Shi Cheng couldn’t bring himself to feel happy.

No matter how much a student with limited talent outperformed themselves, how could they possibly compete with Zou Yu’s work?

Zhang Wenwu raised an eyebrow. “You don’t seem to have much confidence in your student.”

Shi Cheng shot him a glance. “I have full confidence in every student at Qin Yi. Each of them is our school’s treasure!”

Shi Cheng genuinely meant this.

He wouldn’t blame his students just because they couldn’t outdo Zou Yu. No one can predict the future, and a temporary setback doesn’t mean they’ll be behind forever!

Geniuses are everywhere.

Half of the people who became legendary composers in Qinzhou had no attention paid to their work right after they graduated.

"Glad to hear that."

Zhang Wenwu didn’t push Shi Cheng any further—if he did, Shi Cheng might have lost his temper, and that would’ve crossed the line.

“Let’s listen, let’s listen.”

One of the Qin Yi professors stepped in to smooth things over.

Zhang Wenwu nodded, put on his headphones, and started listening to the song, looking relaxed. He didn’t believe anyone’s work could surpass Zou Yu’s.

Meanwhile.

Shi Cheng and the others also put on their headphones to listen.

Halfway through, Zhang Wenwu suddenly shifted uncomfortably in his seat. Somehow, the sofa at Qin Yi was feeling a little too stiff.

Shi Cheng’s expression, on the other hand, was priceless!

The professors on both sides were also left with their mouths agape!

On Dong Yi’s side, someone even stood up!

The song lasted four minutes.

For the first time in his life, Zhang Wenwu felt that four minutes could be so long, and his discomfort with the sofa beneath him grew more pronounced.

And it wasn’t just Zhang Wenwu.

The Dong Yi professors were now shifting in their seats too, one of them even standing up uncontrollably—only to quickly sit back down, realizing it was inappropriate.

After the song ended, the room fell into an awkward silence. It was unclear if they were all still savoring the song or lost in their own thoughts.

"…"

Zhang Wenwu opened his mouth, wanting to say something, but it felt like his throat was blocked.

It was suffocating.

By all rights, Shi Cheng should’ve said something by now, but even he hadn’t recovered from the shock. It took him a full ten seconds before he pinched his thigh.

Holy crap!

What was this song?

It was even better than Zou Yu’s!

Lin Yuan is one of our students?

Why haven’t I heard of him before?

Shi Cheng’s inner world was in turmoil!

But he suppressed his excitement, keeping a calm façade. “I think this song is alright. What do you think, Professor Zhang?”

“It’s… quite good.”

Zhang Wenwu forced a smile and stood up, “I just remembered something urgent that needs handling.”

Shi Cheng stood up as well, straightening his back. Even though he was shorter than the other man, he suddenly exuded an imposing presence like a mountain.

“You don’t want to stay and give a few more comments?”

“Farewell!”

Zhang Wenwu hurriedly turned and left with the Dong Yi team. But as they walked away, Shi Cheng noticed that Zhang Wenwu’s right hand, behind his back, was giving a thumbs-up—

In the end, he still acknowledged that Dong Yi had lost.

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