Chapter 183 - MASS RELEASE 3

Chapter 263 Zhuqing the Titled Douluo, Xiao Wu the Soul Douluo

"Zhuqing, where did you go to receive your inheritance?" Chen Xuan quickly changed the topic.

However, Xiao Wu saw right through him. She extended a fair, jade-like hand and pinched the flesh at his waist, twisting it ruthlessly.

"Chen Xuan, don't think I don't know what you're up to," she huffed, crossing her arms with a heavy snort.

Chen Xuan grimaced in pain, his forehead breaking out in cold sweat. Her grip strength was stronger than his!

Zhu Zhuqing glanced at him before withdrawing her gaze. In a soft voice, she said, "It was a place far from the continent. Perhaps the Divine Realm. I'm not entirely sure."

"Did you become a god?" Chen Xuan asked, noticing a faint purple mark on her smooth forehead—a symbol of receiving an inheritance.

Zhu Zhuqing shook her head, sighing lightly. "No. Something went wrong with the trial. I'm not sure if I can pass it in the future."

"You probably don't know this, but we're really strong now!"

Xiao Wu grinned. She had participated in some trials as well, benefiting from them. She had now reached level eighty-nine. Zhuqing had broken through to level ninety half a year ago and was currently a level ninety-three Titled Douluo.

"Congratulations!" Chen Xuan smiled sincerely, happy for them.

At the same time, he felt a little frustrated. Even though he had practically been leveling up with cheat codes, his soul power was still lower than theirs. If people found out his current level, he'd never hear the end of it—it would be embarrassing!

"Chen Xuan, what's your current soul power level?" Xiao Wu asked curiously.

Zhu Zhuqing's beautiful eyes sparkled as she looked at him, intrigued.

"Around the same as yours," Chen Xuan answered, keeping a straight face, refusing to reveal that he was only at the Soul Sage level with seven rings.

He silently decided that once he returned, he would immediately obtain a soul ring. He had been stuck at level eighty for quite some time and felt there was a high chance he would break straight through to level ninety.

"Oh, really?" Zhu Zhuqing's lips curved slightly into a knowing smile. She saw through him but chose not to expose him.

She had reached a profound level of cultivation, her body now flowing with divine power. Her vision was keen—while she couldn't precisely gauge Chen Xuan's soul power level, she could tell it was still below eighty.

"Why are you staring at me like that?" Chen Xuan felt a little guilty, like he was being seen through.

He was suspicious—his Space Martial Soul should be hiding his aura perfectly. Even Titled Douluo should only sense him as a Soul Emperor at most. He shouldn't have been exposed.

"Let's drop this for now. We can talk later when we leave. Someone's coming." Zhu Zhuqing, cold and beautiful as ever, gave him a slight smile.

Xiao Wu naturally hooked her arm around Chen Xuan's and rested her head lightly on his shoulder, grinning. "Chen Xuan, are you sure you can handle this? If you can't, just call out for Big Sis Xiao Wu, and I'll help you!"

Though her voice was soft, it carried a heavy note of doubt—she clearly didn't believe in him.

Chen Xuan's forehead twitched. Was he being underestimated? Were these two girls actually looking down on him?

Just then, a dozen noble young masters and aristocrats stormed out of the manor gates. Even before stepping onto the grass, they were already shouting.

"Miss Xiao Wu, Miss Zhuqing, why are you still outside? Did something happen?"

However, as soon as they stepped onto the lawn and saw the two beauties they had been thinking about, their expressions darkened, and rage boiled in their eyes.

A wave of fury spread through the group, their faces twisted with anger. Some of them had bloodshot eyes, practically shooting flames, on the verge of madness.

The reason?

The savage they had cursed earlier—the one they despised—was standing right next to Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing. Worse still, he was standing too close to them!

A dozen noblemen instantly exploded in rage, their eyes nearly popping out of their sockets. They couldn't accept this—they were about to lose their minds.

Even worse, when they looked closer, they saw that Xiao Wu, their goddess, was holding onto that bastard's arm, snuggling into him like a lovestruck girl. The intimate scene was like a knife through their hearts.

It was a devastating blow, a critical hit that shattered their hopes.

"You! Get away from them!" a noble disciple roared, his eyes nearly splitting apart in fury, on the brink of insanity.

The impact was unbearable.

They had long regarded Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing as their own, believing they would eventually claim them. And now, the two fairy-like goddesses had been tainted by that brute? This was worse than death itself!

And to top it off, that bastard had the audacity to enjoy it, even giving them a smug, provocative look. Their rage hit the boiling point. They could no longer hold back.

"Ahhh!"

A noble young master, humiliated and furious, finally snapped. He roared, summoning his martial soul as he lunged at Chen Xuan.

Another aristocrat, eyes filled with bloodlust, shrieked as if he had encountered his worst enemy and lost his mind.

"What the hell?" Chen Xuan was disgusted. They looked like a pack of rabid monkeys infected with some disease.

He just couldn't understand—how could they be this dumb? It was as if they had no brains, nothing more than wild beasts that went berserk at the slightest provocation.

"Can you handle it?" Zhu Zhuqing's gaze landed on Chen Xuan. If he couldn't, she was more than willing to step in.

Chen Xuan's forehead twitched. Without a word, he stepped forward.

He activated his lightning attribute chakra, electric sparks crackling in his palm as they compressed into a violently unstable mass of energy.

With a roar, more than ten noblemen charged at him, unleashing their most powerful soul skills. The sky was filled with a barrage of attacks, an overwhelming flood of deadly martial techniques crashing toward him.

"I was going to let you off, but you just had to rush to your deaths," Chen Xuan muttered with disdain, lifting his palm.

A small, white sphere shot out, suddenly expanding in a blinding flash of lightning, forming a massive electric net that covered everything, crashing down upon them.

Boom!

Thunder roared, shaking the heavens. The charging noblemen and their soul skills were instantly swallowed by the electrical storm. Amidst groans of agony, their bodies were charred black as they collapsed, unable to stand.

Some barely clung to life due to their stronger bodies, but their flesh was lifeless, heavily wounded.

"Ah! Chen Xuan, you're actually this strong?!" Xiao Wu's mouth fell open in shock.

Then, she pouted in disappointment. She had been hoping that bastard would get beaten up so she could make him cry and beg for "Big Sis Xiao Wu" to save him.

Chen Xuan rolled his eyes. This woman hasn't changed at all—she still loves messing with me.

"Sorry about the mess. If you wash the blood off, it should be fine," he said to Zhu Zhuqing.

Zhu Zhuqing was speechless. She rolled her eyes at him—what was the point of saying that after making such a mess?

Sighing, she said, "Do as you please. Xiao Wu and I were planning to leave Star Luo anyway. We're coming to find you. This home doesn't matter anymore."

The commotion had already drawn the attention of those inside the manor. Before long, over a hundred furious figures stormed out.

Leading them was the nobleman in white, closing his folding fan as he marched forward with royal and noble disciples in tow.

When they saw the miserable state of their fallen comrades, their expressions darkened with rage.

Although the dead weren't particularly close to them, they were still of noble and royal blood. Losing so many at once meant consequences for them as well.

Moreover, a mere savage had openly slaughtered nobles. This was a blatant provocation to the empire's authority, a slap to their dignity.

"You killed them?" the white-clad noble asked, his expression cold as he shut his fan.

He already knew the answer but wanted to hear it from Chen Xuan himself.

"They came running to die. I had no choice," Chen Xuan said casually, spreading his hands. "This is self-defense."

Chapter 264 One Strike, Certain Death

"No matter who you are or what your status is, committing such a massacre in broad daylight means you must die!" the man in white said coldly.

Although the royal and noble disciples were seething with righteous fury, none dared to act first. They encouraged one another, hoping someone else would take the lead.

They might not recognize Chen Xuan, but they weren't fools. A young man in his early twenties who could kill so many in an instant was clearly no ordinary person.

Perhaps they had miscalculated. It was highly likely that his soul power exceeded level seventy, and his martial soul was far from ordinary.

After all, geniuses often emerged among commoners. The presence of high-level martial souls was not unheard of in the Star Luo Empire.

"Kid, let me tell you this—the Royal Knights are already on their way. Your only fate is death!"

"That's right! Even if you're a prodigy from some city, in Star Luo City, you'll be brought to your knees!" a group of noble disciples jeered at Chen Xuan.

Despite their loud proclamations, none of them made a move. No one wanted to be the first to step forward, afraid of being slaughtered by this ruthless brute.

"So this is why the Star Luo Empire has no Titled Douluo," Chen Xuan chuckled, growing even more disdainful of the empire's aristocrats and royals.

They were only interested in scheming for power and profit, neglecting their cultivation. They had completely lost their warrior spirit.

Zhu Zhuqing sighed softly but remained silent. Coming from the Zhu family, she was all too familiar with the darkness within noble families. Sibling rivalries often ended in bloodshed—not just among the White Tiger and Nether clans, but in many aristocratic households.

It was almost comical. Over a hundred people had gathered, yet they were all talk, with no one daring to strike first.

The scene was filled with insults and curses, but not a single person actually made a move. Everyone was waiting for someone else to start.

"I'll do it."

At that moment, someone stepped forward—a powerful Soul Sage intent on cutting down Chen Xuan. It was the man in white.

A commotion erupted among the crowd. Everyone was shocked. The man in white was no ordinary figure. His status ranked just below the Zhu family, and now, he was personally taking action.

Within the royal family, nearly everyone knew of his remarkable talent. He had broken through to Soul Sage at a young age, and now, a year later, his strength had only grown.

"My lord, allow this old servant to handle it."

An elderly man stepped forward, cupping his hands in respect to the man in white. He was concerned about the consequences.

If the young master of his clan died here, his own life wouldn't be enough to atone for it.

"What a joke! Against a mere nobody, do I really need help?"

With a flick of his sleeve, the man in white strode toward Chen Xuan.

He was the unparalleled genius of Star Luo City, a young Soul Sage who stood second only to the crown prince.

"What's your soul power level?" Chen Xuan asked with an intrigued look. Was there finally a worthy opponent?

The man in white lifted his chin proudly. "Seventy-three. What? Are you afraid now?"

"I suggest you all come at me together. Let's not waste time," Chen Xuan said, losing interest.

He had expected a real young expert in Star Luo, but it seemed they were just good at running their mouths.

A hush fell over the crowd before an uproar erupted. The noble disciples glared at Chen Xuan with seething rage, feeling utterly provoked. This unknown brat dared to be so arrogant!

Even Xiao Wu was taken aback, watching Chen Xuan with curiosity. She hadn't seen him in a long time, and now this bastard was brimming with confidence.

She remembered him being nothing like this before!

"How audacious!"

The man in white was furious. As the top talent of Star Luo City, being looked down upon like this was an unbearable insult!

In truth, he had completely misunderstood.

Chen Xuan had reached a level where he could challenge deities. Crushing a bunch of young Soul Emperors and Soul Sages was nothing more than a one-sided slaughter.

Clang!

The man in white moved, drawing a gleaming white soft sword. A black soul ring flared to life as he unleashed his strongest soul skill—Martial Soul Avatar!

In an instant, his three-foot-long soft sword expanded, growing over twenty meters in length. The blade shimmered with a chilling light, becoming an enormous weapon of destruction.

Whoosh!

The colossal sword radiated dazzling brilliance as it slashed downward, tearing through the air like a divine blade descending from the heavens, aiming to cleave Chen Xuan in two.

The sheer power of the attack was overwhelming. To the Soul Emperor and noble onlookers, the sight was simply too terrifying. The giant sword seemed to blot out the sky.

They watched as the barbarian Chen Xuan stood motionless, raising only one hand, as if he were too stunned to react.

Whoosh!

But in the next instant, space itself distorted. Black chains materialized from nowhere, exuding a profound spatial law as they spread out like a massive web.

Upon closer inspection, the black chains were composed of countless mysterious runes.

The crowd's eyes widened in shock, their pupils shrinking to pinpricks.

Because in the most bizarre turn of events, the twenty-meter-long giant sword touched the web—and was devoured, bit by bit, as if sinking into a bottomless abyss, vanishing entirely.

"H-How is this possible?!"

The man in white was dumbfounded, his body trembling uncontrollably. That seemingly thin web of runes was like an endless black hole, swallowing his seventh soul skill whole.

At the same time, Chen Xuan pointed a single finger forward.

Crack!

A blinding bolt of lightning erupted, its roar like thunder splitting the sky.

Splurt!

Before the man in white could dodge, the lightning struck his head.

Boom!

His skull exploded instantly, sending blood, brain matter, and shattered bone flying in all directions.

Silence.

The entire crowd stood in stunned silence, unable to process what had just happened.

The man in white had been decapitated—killed in an instant.

Even the old Soul Douluo was caught completely off guard. His young master had been obliterated before he could even react.

"Anyone else want to die?"

Chen Xuan scanned the hundred-plus people present.

The noble disciples snapped back to their senses as if struck by lightning. The sheer horror of what had just transpired dawned on them. Their bodies trembled uncontrollably.

The man in white had been a powerful cultivator—a level seventy-three Soul Sage. Yet, he had been killed in one strike.

The psychological impact was devastating, striking them to their very core.

Just moments ago, they had been arrogant and self-assured.

But now, that had changed.

They stared at Chen Xuan in terror, as though he were a demon incarnate.

Among them, the person most filled with rage was the Soul Douluo.

To outsiders, he had done nothing but stand there and watch his young master die. What an act of utter heartlessness.

No one would believe that a nearly ninety-ranked Soul Douluo, one of the strongest cultivators in the Star Luo Empire, had been unable to save someone from a mere young man.

"You little bastard, prepare to die!"

The old man suddenly erupted, soaring into the sky. His leg ignited with flames as he launched a devastating kick toward Chen Xuan.

He knew his fate was sealed. If he failed to kill this boy, the royal family would hold him accountable. His entire family might be exterminated.

"If you don't go all out now, you won't get another chance."

Even at this moment, Chen Xuan still found time to mock him.

Many watching thought he was too arrogant—disrespecting one of the strongest Soul Masters in Star Luo Empire.

Did he really think Star Luo had no true warriors?

At that moment, Chen Xuan gathered natural energy. Lightning crackled around his body as he clenched his fist.

Boom!

He shattered the ground beneath him and shot forward at supersonic speed.

Splurt!

The elder's flaming kick, fierce as it was, shattered the moment it collided with the punch. His foot was blown apart, bones and flesh torn asunder.

With a grunt of pain, he was struck by the punch.

A single fissure ran from the sole of his foot to the top of his head.

Boom!

His entire body exploded, reduced to nothing but chunks of flesh and a bloody mist.

A mighty Soul Douluo—dead in an instant, without even a final scream.

Chapter 265 Leaving Star Luo

In Star Luo, there were no Titled Douluo. A Soul Power level of eighty-nine was the pinnacle of combat strength.

And now, a nearly rank-ninety Soul Douluo—one of the highest figures at the top of the pyramid, revered by countless people—had been struck down in midair, his body exploding into pieces with a single punch.

Chen Xuan landed on the ground, his body crackling with lightning. No matter how the blood and flesh rained down, none of it touched him.

He remained calm from start to finish. Killing a Soul Douluo was nothing to him.

However, the scene was anything but calm. Over a hundred people stood in shock, terror gripping their hearts. That was a nearly rank-ninety powerhouse, someone who had been in the Soul Douluo realm for many years, a well-known figure throughout Star Luo City—yet he had been killed with a single blow!

For the royals, nobles, and sect disciples, the impact was beyond what they could bear. It shattered their worldview completely.

The barbarian they had mocked was only in his early twenties. Even if he had started cultivating from the womb, he should have, at most, reached level seventy. Yet he had just killed an eight-ringed Soul Douluo—how was this possible?!

The noble scions dared not think further. This was no different from a catastrophic tsunami. There was only one possibility: the Chen Xuan they had looked down on had Soul Power exceeding level eighty-nine.

Even Zhu Zhuqing and Xiao Wu were astonished, their beautiful eyes flickering with light. They stared at Chen Xuan in curiosity. He was supposedly just a seven-ringed Soul Sage, so how could he effortlessly kill a Soul Douluo?

They were desperate to know the answer. Had he encountered some extraordinary opportunity over the years that made him this powerful?

Chen Xuan remained composed. He truly felt nothing. After all, he had already killed Tang San, who wielded a divine weapon. That elderly Soul Douluo from earlier was nothing—he didn't even compare to Gu Rong or Porcupinefish Douluo.

Given some more time to cultivate and evolve his body further, if the Sea God dared to appear again, he would simply erase him forever.

Over a hundred nobles—all of them figures of status within the royal family—were now gripped with fear. Their arrogance had completely vanished. Fighting any further would only mean throwing their lives away for nothing.

Those who had shouted the loudest earlier now found themselves paralyzed, unable to decide whether to stand or flee. Their backs were drenched in cold sweat, anxiety written all over their faces as they feared being targeted next.

"Y-You… just who are you?!"

A middle-aged man forced himself to speak, his voice trembling.

The noble disciples were overwhelmed with terror, yet their curiosity burned just as strongly. Someone this domineering, this powerful, could not have remained an unknown figure.

"Chen Xuan," he answered flatly.

"Boom!"

The moment those words left his mouth, the entire scene fell silent before erupting in an earth-shattering shockwave.

Over a hundred people stood frozen, their eyes widening in disbelief, their bodies petrified.

Lately, this name had caused massive waves. There was not a single person in the Star Luo royal family who hadn't heard of him.

Chen Xuan—the man who had single-handedly stormed the entire Heaven Dou Imperial Palace, slaughtering Emperor Xue Ye despite the protection of three Titled Douluo and an army of a hundred thousand, and then escaping unscathed.

His exploits in Xilu City were even more terrifying. He had battled against a supposed deity, slain the Sea God's chosen successor right before the Sea God himself, and still managed to flee from an entity in its true form, leaving completely unscathed.

Chen Xuan's infamy had already spread through the Star Luo royal court. Nearly every noble had heard of his monstrous achievements.

Now, faced with the reality that the infamous "Chen Demon" was standing right before them—a young man barely in his twenties—they were utterly dumbfounded. It felt as if a tidal wave had crashed over them, shaking them to their very core.

They had assumed that he was an old and experienced powerhouse, at least a middle-aged Super Douluo.

Never in their wildest dreams did they imagine that the feared "Chen Demon" was such a young man!

"I… I've doomed myself…"

Some people wailed in despair, their intestines twisting with regret. What kind of being had they provoked?!

At that moment, the noble and royal disciples finally realized why the royal knights—normally so efficient—had yet to appear.

They had already been abandoned.

Thud!

A row of people instantly dropped to their knees, their faces streaked with tears. Any sense of dignity was discarded as they began to plead for their lives.

"C-Chen… Brother Chen, we were wrong! Please, have mercy!"

At this moment, pride and honor meant nothing. They desperately squeezed out tears, groveling and begging, their wretched state a stark contrast to their previous arrogance.

"What… what exactly did you do?"

Zhu Zhuqing's beautiful eyes widened, her chest rising and falling slightly as she stared at Chen Xuan in shock.

She was truly astonished. Why did these people lose all their nerve the moment they heard his name? Why did each and every one of them look utterly terrified, as if just hearing his name had drained them of all courage?

Seeing the entire crowd kneeling, Xiao Wu was also stunned. Her fair, delicate face was filled with disbelief. Without hesitation, she reached out and pinched Chen Xuan's waist.

"Speak up, you damn Chen Xuan! Did you do something absolutely outrageous?!"

She was both embarrassed and annoyed. After just a couple of years apart, this bastard had somehow become stronger than her?!

How was she supposed to keep making him call her 'Sister Xiao Wu' now?!

"Enough messing around."

Chen Xuan swatted her hand away, looking a little helpless.

Then, he calmly explained, "I didn't do much. Heaven Dou's people were simply too arrogant. They sent assassins after my daughter, so I destroyed their imperial palace, killed Xue Ye, and gave them a little punishment."

He spoke with a serene tone, as if recounting something trivial. The ones who needed killing had already been dealt with, and it had been over a year—there was no lingering emotion.

To him, Xue Ye was nothing more than a venomous old snake who dared to target his precious daughter. His death was well-deserved. There was nothing to feel guilty about.

The crowd was left speechless, once again struck by an overwhelming sense of disbelief.

"Our daughter"?

Who was he talking to? Whose daughter?!

More importantly, they had just uncovered a deeper truth. The incident back then wasn't simple at all.

So Emperor Xue Ye had resorted to underhanded tactics, assassinating an innocent girl?

Such actions were utterly vile, completely unacceptable. Even the noble disciples present were filled with indignation.

Now, looking back, Xue Ye truly deserved to die!

"Well done!"

Xiao Wu clenched her tiny fists, her face puffed up in anger as she ground her teeth.

She was livid. She had never imagined that the ones who tried to assassinate Qiu'er had been those Heaven Dou bastards!

"What do you plan to do with these people?" Zhu Zhuqing asked softly.

Chen Xuan glanced at the kneeling nobles. They were shaking in fear, their arrogance nowhere to be found.

"Forget it. I don't want to waste my time with more killing."

His words signified the end of the matter.

The nobles kept their heads lowered, but their faces lit up with relief.

Zhu Zhuqing turned to Chen Xuan and spoke gently. "I originally planned to wait for Davis, but since you're here, there's no need. I'll leave with you."

She had no attachment to this empire. She had long wanted to leave. The military power she had seized was all handed over to Davis—there was nothing left to hold her back.

"Alright. Do you two need to pack anything?"

Zhu Zhuqing and Xiao Wu shook their heads. They had already prepared to leave Star Luo, and all their important belongings were stored in their soul tools.

"Then let's go."

Chen Xuan ignored the nobles and led the two of them away.

Just as they stepped out of the palace grounds, they encountered Star Luo's Grand General, who stood waiting outside with a group of royal knights.

Chen Xuan approached and patted the general's shoulder.

"Your emperor is really generous, abandoning all those people so easily."

With a smile, he had already sensed the presence of the troops outside.

"The emperor said those who make mistakes must be punished. They are yours to deal with as you see fit," the general responded, cupping his hands.

Chen Xuan chuckled. "So your 'urgent business' was just running to inform your emperor, huh?"

The general's face twitched, feeling a chill down his spine at being exposed so bluntly.

Chen Xuan didn't dwell on it. He simply gave the general a pat on the back before vanishing into the sky, taking Zhu Zhuqing and Xiao Wu with him.

Chapter 266: The War God's Companion

After picking up Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing, Chen Xuan didn't linger and took them away from Xingluo.

Flying Thunder God was ideal for long-distance travel, especially for traversing vast skies—flying would always be faster than walking.

As the red sun dipped westward and evening arrived, Chen Xuan landed with them in a brightly lit small city.

He sighed. Spatial abilities were more suited for individual use, and bringing others along consumed twice as much soul power.

"I'm exhausted! This was anything but comfortable," Xiao Wu muttered in a low voice, clearly displeased. No matter what, she was never taking Chen Xuan's Flying Thunder God again.

Zhu Zhuqing rubbed her temples, also feeling tired and wanting a proper rest.

"Alright, alright, we'll stay the night," Chen Xuan said helplessly.

Then, the three of them found a place to stay—checking into a luxurious Rose Hotel in town.

"This place feels familiar…" Chen Xuan had a moment of daze. If he remembered correctly, it was in a branch of this very hotel where, years ago, he had spent the night with Xiao Wu, and as a result, unexpectedly had their daughter, Chen Qiuer.

He still vaguely remembered how he had been completely dominated that night. It had been utterly miserable for him.

Looking back now, Chen Xuan felt momentarily lost in thought. Almost ten years had passed already…

Sensing something, Xiao Wu turned and glared at him viciously, her expression full of menace. Her gaze clearly said, If you dare bring this up in front of Zhuqing, you're dead!

Chen Xuan twitched his mouth and wisely shut up, striding straight into the hotel lobby to find the staff.

Zhu Zhuqing, unaware of the context, glanced between the two of them, puzzled. Her fair face showed curiosity—her instincts told her they were hiding some unspeakable secret.

At the front desk, the receptionist had already noticed them. With two breathtakingly beautiful women accompanying one man, their presence was impossible to ignore.

Around them, many passersby cast envious, jealous, and resentful glances. A man bringing two stunning beauties to a hotel? Everyone knew what that implied—it was clearly a threesome situation!

Chen Xuan ignored the surrounding stares and walked straight to the counter. "Hey, give me two rooms."

The receptionist's eyes flickered as he glanced between Chen Xuan and the two women approaching. Clearing his throat, he put on a serious face and said, "Apologies, sir, but we only have one room left."

He deliberately raised his voice, making sure Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing heard every word.

After speaking, the receptionist even shot Chen Xuan a knowing look—his eyes practically said, I got you, bro! People in his line of work needed keen perception, after all!

"Are you fucking kidding me…" Chen Xuan felt his forehead darken. A thousand sheep stampeded through his mind. Is that what this looks like to him?!

"What's wrong?" Zhu Zhuqing and Xiao Wu reached the front desk just in time to catch the entire conversation. As soul masters, they heard everything word for word.

Chen Xuan's head ached, and a guilty feeling crept up on him. Were they going to misunderstand?

"It's like this, ladies—our hotel only has one room left. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience," the receptionist added, as if he hadn't done enough damage already.

"Oh? Is that so?" Zhu Zhuqing blinked her beautiful eyes, not looking at the receptionist but rather at Chen Xuan with an amused yet unreadable smile.

Chen Xuan felt immense pressure, as if he were being scrutinized under a spotlight. He was definitely being misunderstood… but this wasn't his fault!

"Forget it, do as you please. I'm going up to rest." Zhu Zhuqing withdrew her gaze, not bothering to look at him anymore, and gracefully walked upstairs.

Xiao Wu, on the other hand, shot Chen Xuan a glare, then reached out her fair hand and pinched his waist hard. She was clearly pissed.

"You pervert, don't think I don't know what you're up to!" she huffed before turning and following Zhu Zhuqing upstairs.

As soon as they left, the receptionist chuckled mischievously, rubbing his hands together with a sleazy grin. "Sir, I did you a solid, didn't I? You can't be stingy now!"

He was confident that he had helped set the mood for a wonderful evening. Surely, this gentleman wouldn't be stingy—he'd probably tip him at least a thousand gold soul coins, right?

"Are you fucking kidding me…" Chen Xuan's face darkened further. Just looking at this guy annoyed him—he had never seen someone with such atrocious social awareness.

Great. Thanks to this idiot, both Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing had completely misunderstood. Now they thought he was planning some depraved three-person activity.

Chen Xuan didn't even want to argue with this receptionist—he was afraid he might actually smack him. He turned and walked toward the stairs.

But suddenly, the receptionist's expression changed, and he rushed forward to grab Chen Xuan's arm. "Sir, that's not very fair. You haven't given me a tip yet."

The commotion drew the attention of the surrounding guests. Murmurs filled the lobby as people whispered that Chen Xuan was being cheap and breaking unwritten rules.

"How much?" Chen Xuan sighed, unwilling to waste more time.

The receptionist chuckled, held up one finger, and said, "Not much, just a thousand gold soul coins."

"You son of a—"

Chen Xuan laughed in exasperation. What a great hotel. They were trying to scam him now?

"Take it or leave it." He flung ten gold soul coins onto the counter and walked upstairs without another word.

The receptionist didn't stop him this time—he was too busy scrambling to pick up the coins, quickly stuffing them into his pocket as if nothing had happened.

Inside the hotel room, the décor was extravagant and spacious. A grand bed was covered in roses—vibrant, beautiful, and overflowing with fragrance.

This was the kind of luxury the hotel offered.

Zhu Zhuqing and Xiao Wu's eyes lit up, their fair faces filled with delight. It felt romantic, evoking a sense of emotional satisfaction.

Despite being twenty-one, the two of them still had the same youthful hearts, unable to resist the allure of a bed full of red roses.

By the time Chen Xuan entered the room, they had already gathered up the roses.

Xiao Wu went to take a bath, leaving Zhu Zhuqing alone in the spacious living room. She had taken off her shoes, revealing a pair of delicate, fair feet, and sat gracefully on the sofa with a fruit platter in hand.

"I'm curious—your divine trial isn't over yet, is it? Why did you come back early with Xiao Wu?" Chen Xuan asked as he sat beside her.

He had been wondering about this since earlier in the day but hadn't asked due to the crowd.

Zhu Zhuqing put down the fruit platter and gazed out at the night sky, sighing softly. "Over the past two years, Xiao Wu accompanied me through all the trials. Now, only the final test remains. But… I've decided to give up."

"What?"

Chen Xuan was taken aback, completely caught off guard. Then, he felt it was a shame. "Why give up now? Wouldn't that mean all your efforts were wasted?"

"It's not a complete waste. The rewards from the first seven trials won't be revoked," Zhu Zhuqing replied. Then, she turned to him with an amused look. "Chen Xuan, do you really want me to finish the trial?"

Chen Xuan blinked, sensing something in her tone. There was definitely more to this.

After thinking for a moment, he answered honestly, "Of course, I respect your decision. I just think it's a pity. You're only one step away from inheriting a god position and becoming a Second-Class God."

"Oh? Is that so?"

Zhu Zhuqing's eyes sparkled as she gazed at him, a soft smile appearing on her fair face. "Even if the last trial requires me to become the War God's companion… you'd still want me to continue?"

"What?!"

Chapter 267 Divine Armor

"What?!"

Chen Xuan's mind exploded with a buzzing noise. This information was nothing short of an earth-shattering revelation, rendering his brain completely blank.

At first, he was dumbfounded, unable to process it, thinking he must have misheard. But once he snapped back to reality, he was so enraged that he actually laughed.

The final trial of the Speed God's divine assessment was to have his chosen successor form a bond with the War God's chosen inheritor? How utterly absurd!

Chen Xuan found it laughable—people always said the divine trials were supreme, sacred, and inviolable, yet this trial's content was nothing more than a ridiculous farce, complete nonsense.

He didn't even need to think about it—he saw through the Speed God's ploy in an instant. The god had deliberately altered the trial's conditions, using godhood as leverage to force Zhu Zhuqing's hand. If she refused to comply, two years of effort would be stripped away, equivalent to placing a blade at her throat.

"So the gods really are all the same—no better than humans, and certainly no more noble!" Chen Xuan seethed with fury, blood boiling in his veins. One day, he swore he would carve a path through the divine realm and cut down every god who had ever crossed him.

Seeing Chen Xuan so enraged, Zhu Zhuqing didn't get angry along with him. Instead, a faint smile appeared on her delicate face, tinged with a hint of happiness.

Because she understood why Chen Xuan was reacting so strongly—it was all because of her. Perhaps he was jealous, or maybe he was simply standing up for her.

Either way, Zhu Zhuqing knew that this man cared about her. She had a place in his heart.

It had been nearly ten years since they last saw each other. Their parting back then had been difficult and painful. But after all these years, when emotions had settled, a certain distance had inevitably formed between them. They were no longer as close as before—more like good friends who had reconnected.

Even the closest of friends, after years apart, would feel some sense of estrangement.

But now, watching this man fume and burn with righteous indignation, all because of her, that distance was instantly washed away.

She felt the raw emotions Chen Xuan was displaying, even the trace of jealousy. Yet, she didn't find it annoying. On the contrary, it made her very happy. A faint smile graced her lips, and warmth spread through her heart like honey.

"Alright, don't get so worked up."

Zhu Zhuqing chuckled softly, reaching out her slender, jade-like hand to hold a grape up to his lips. "You're really fickle—you were just suggesting that I continue with the trial, and now you're completely against it."

"Uh..." Chen Xuan was stunned. Staring at the hand so close to him, his mind short-circuited for a moment, leaving him at a loss.

His thoughts were in chaos. He couldn't believe what was happening. What the hell? This was way too sudden—he was caught completely off guard.

The thing was, their interactions had always been relatively calm before. He had considered taking things further, but it had never seemed possible. And now, Zhu Zhuqing had suddenly become proactive, even making such an intimate gesture. It was too unexpected.

However, Chen Xuan wasn't an ordinary man—his heart was bold. He quickly regained his composure, opened his mouth, and bit into the grape, swallowing it.

Seeing him eat it, Zhu Zhuqing's smile deepened. Her beautiful eyes curved into crescent shapes, losing some of their usual coldness and becoming even more enchanting.

At this moment, Xiao Wu was in the bathroom, taking a shower, completely unaware of what was happening outside.

"So, have you completed the trial now?" Chen Xuan asked.

Zhu Zhuqing first nodded, then shook her head. "Not yet. She wants me to find Dai Mubai and become his partner. Xiao Wu and I used this as an opportunity to return to the mainland."

Chen Xuan's gaze turned colder. He could already imagine how restrictive their situation had been during the trial.

But Zhu Zhuqing was unbothered by it. She maintained a calm smile and said, "Honestly, whether we become gods or not doesn't really matter to Xiao Wu and me. Chen Xuan, I care more about you."

As she spoke, her expression softened, her beautiful eyes filled with emotion, glistening like precious pearls.

"Chen Xuan, I don't know when it started, but you've become more and more important to me. During all these years without you... I missed you."

Her words were as close to a confession as one could get, laying bare her heart.

Chen Xuan felt a sharp tremor in his chest. Seeing the faint anticipation in her gaze, he suddenly felt a sourness in his nose, deeply moved.

Because he knew—someone like Zhu Zhuqing, with her cold and distant personality, wouldn't say such things lightly. She must have made a heavy decision before revealing her feelings.

"Zhuqing, do you like Dai Mubai?" Chen Xuan suddenly asked.

Zhu Zhuqing was taken aback, confused by the question. But after giving it serious thought, she shook her head. "Our relationship was purely political, arranged by our families. There were never any real feelings between us. I didn't like him before, and I never will in the future."

"Good, then he won't have a future. I'll kill him soon." Chen Xuan grinned.

He had already asked Qian Renxue to investigate. On the day the war in Xilu City ended, the people from Shrek Academy hadn't gone anywhere else—they had traveled to Sea God Island and hadn't returned since.

"You... sigh..." Zhu Zhuqing massaged her temples, feeling exasperated. This guy really had a habit of resorting to murder at the drop of a hat.

"Can't you just be a little more direct?" She frowned slightly, giving him an exasperated look, tinged with mild annoyance.

"Xiao Wu is still here. If I said it outright, I'd seem like a scumbag," Chen Xuan replied, insisting he had standards.

Zhu Zhuqing rolled her eyes again. "Shameless. Someone like you talking about morals? Your face is just as thick as ever."

A good man, by definition, should love only one woman, avoid ambiguous relationships with others, and be considerate of his partner. Yet, Chen Xuan met none of these criteria, and he still had the audacity to call himself a good man.

"I'm not being shameless. I just want to give you all a home," Chen Xuan argued.

Zhu Zhuqing's fair face was filled with speechlessness. He really hadn't changed at all—just as shameless as before. How did she even fall for such a scoundrel?

"Your face is thicker than a city wall. You say such shameless things without even blushing." She huffed, but there was a trace of helplessness in her tone.

Chen Xuan felt wronged—he was just speaking the truth. If he didn't provide them with a home, was he supposed to abandon one of them? That would be even worse than killing him. Of course, he couldn't do that.

"Whatever." Zhu Zhuqing didn't want to argue about it anymore. She had already fallen for him, and there was no turning back.

"By the way, I have a set of divine soul bones that should be perfect for you," Chen Xuan suddenly said.

As he spoke, he retrieved six soul bones from his system space. Instantly, divine power filled the room, emanating a deep violet glow, shimmering with sacred energy.

Years ago, one of the high-tier rewards he had obtained had included this set of treasures.

It was a complete set of soul bones—in fact, it was divine armor. Each piece was imbued with divine power and unique godly abilities. Upon absorption, it granted unparalleled speed, rivaling that of the Speed God himself.

According to the system, it was essentially a different way of achieving godhood.

"Divine armor!"

Zhu Zhuqing's beautiful eyes widened in shock, her heart stirring with massive waves of emotion.

Her soft lips parted slightly, unable to close again for a long time—she was utterly dumbfounded.

"Chen Xuan, how is this possible? How did you even get this?" The normally cold and composed Zhu Zhuqing found herself unable to remain calm. The power radiating from these soul bones was simply too overwhelming.

She could clearly sense the boundless divine energy contained within them, intertwined with the very laws of speed. Any Titled Douluo who absorbed them could instantly break through Rank 100!

Chapter 268: Hope for Level 100

For thousands of years on the continent, only one person has ever been recorded to truly break through to level 100 soul power—Poseidon, the current Sea God of the Divine Realm.

Level 100 soul power has always been an insurmountable challenge for countless soul masters. No matter how many opportunities one might seek, there is no guarantee of taking that final step.

Chen Xuan had read many books on the subject and understood well how difficult it was to surpass this threshold.

According to the system's description, this set of soul bones was a divine artifact. Absorbing it not only granted power comparable to the God of Speed but also significantly increased soul power.

The system stated that the amount of soul power gained varied from person to person. Those with exceptional talent would receive a greater increase, but even those with average aptitude would at least gain a ten-level boost.

However, only soul masters who had reached the Title Douluo stage could withstand the divine power contained within these six soul bones.

This meant that once successfully absorbed, breaking through the level 100 soul power barrier was inevitable, making the person the first in a thousand years to achieve such a feat.

"These soul bones carry divine power. They must have come from a divine beast. They shouldn't exist on this continent," Zhu Zhuqing said, looking at Chen Xuan with curiosity.

Chen Xuan was surprised. Zhu Zhuqing had only taken a brief look yet managed to deduce so much. She knew far more than he expected.

It seemed that her years of trials had given her profound insights.

"These soul bones are indeed extraordinary. They don't belong to any soul beast from this continent. See if you can absorb them—I think they're a perfect match for you," Chen Xuan said, urging her to try.

Zhu Zhuqing didn't press further. Since he had already said so much, she simply accepted the soul bone set.

Her beautiful eyes carried a trace of emotion as she gazed at Chen Xuan with gratitude. "These soul bones suit me perfectly, as if they were tailor-made for me. Chen Xuan, you've been so good to me—I don't know how to repay you."

"Why talk about repayment? As long as you like it, that's all that matters," Chen Xuan said righteously, but then his tone suddenly shifted with a playful smile. "Of course, if you really insist on repaying me… offering yourself wouldn't be a bad idea."

Zhu Zhuqing's face instantly turned red. Despite her usual cold and aloof demeanor, when faced with such a blatant suggestion, her heart raced uncontrollably, breaking her icy composure.

"It's too early for that. Let's talk again when you become a Title Douluo," she replied. She neither agreed nor refused, only feeling that the timing wasn't right. She didn't know how to handle this relationship yet.

"Title Douluo?" Chen Xuan was taken aback. That realm was hardly an obstacle for him now.

A year ago, he had absorbed that special herb, gaining an immense boost in soul power. Even after the majority of it was taken by the fruit tree in the world behind his heart, the remaining portion was still enough to propel him towards level ninety.

Zhu Zhuqing wasn't aware of this. She only knew that Chen Xuan's current soul power level made breaking through to level ninety a long and difficult process.

She simply wanted to delay things—one day at a time.

Xiao Wu was her closest friend, her lifelong sister. Now, they were sharing the same man, and she wasn't mentally prepared for that.

She believed that with Xiao Wu's personality, there was no way she would be generous enough to just hand over her man.

Clack!

At that moment, the bathroom door opened, and Xiao Wu stepped out, wearing a loose pink nightgown, freshly bathed.

"Chen Xuan, come dry my hair for me," she said, her wet hair still dripping with water.

"Got it." Chen Xuan pulled her to the dressing table, then activated his wind attribute soul power to generate a warm breeze, helping her dry her hair.

Once he and Zhu Zhuqing had also finished washing up, the night deepened. The once brightly lit city gradually dimmed as one lamp after another went out.

"Uh…" Chen Xuan looked at the large, king-sized bed and fell into deep thought.

The luxurious room had only one massive red bed, presenting a rather severe dilemma. How were they supposed to sleep tonight?

Three people sharing a bed? He had definitely thought about it, but he knew it wasn't realistic. The two girls would tear him apart in an instant.

"I'll sleep on the sofa," he suggested, preparing to head for the living room. However, before he could take a step, a slender, fair hand reached out and grabbed him.

Xiao Wu narrowed her beautiful eyes, smiling mischievously. "You two seemed to be having a nice chat earlier. What's wrong now? Why so scared?"

Chen Xuan's heart skipped a beat. That smile was a dangerous signal.

"Xiao Wu, we were just—" Zhu Zhuqing started to explain, but a single glare from Xiao Wu silenced her, making her feel guilty and causing her to shut up.

Xiao Wu tightened her grip on Chen Xuan's hand and continued smiling. "What's the matter? Don't you enjoy being surrounded by two beautiful women? Don't you like sleeping together?"

Chen Xuan twitched at the corner of his mouth, his survival instincts kicking in. He frantically waved his hands. "No, no, absolutely not! I'm not that kind of person!"

However, Xiao Wu remained firm, dragging him onto the bed and warning him not to go anywhere.

Zhu Zhuqing wanted to leave and spend the night in the living room, but Xiao Wu pulled her back as well. With the lights off, the three of them lay in the same bed.

"Shit…"

That night, Chen Xuan felt like he was sitting on pins and needles. Sleeping was impossible, but staying awake was just as torturous. This wasn't some kind of bliss—it was pure suffering.

Zhu Zhuqing, too, was wide awake. She had never shared a bed with a man before, let alone in such an intimate setting.

Her face was burning, her heart pounding wildly, and she couldn't calm down at all.

Xiao Wu, however, paid no attention to them. She hugged Chen Xuan's arm and slept soundly, only waking up the next morning.

The next day, after leaving the hotel, they continued their journey. Xiao Wu stubbornly refused to use Chen Xuan's Flying Thunder God technique, insisting on taking a carriage so she could enjoy the scenery along the way.

Chen Xuan, now sporting dark circles under his eyes, slumped into the carriage and immediately dozed off. Last night had been too exhausting.

Zhu Zhuqing wasn't in great condition either. She leaned against the wall, half-asleep.

"Hmph, serves you right!" Xiao Wu huffed, though there was a hint of heartache in her eyes. Still, when she recalled their conversation from the night before, she grew irritated and sulked.

Her once best friend had now become her romantic rival. She never expected such a dramatic twist in her life.

Xiao Wu was not happy. She made up her mind—she would ignore Chen Xuan for the next week and let him reflect on his actions.

The carriage traveled steadily, leaving the grand city, passing through the wilderness, crossing vast grasslands. On the fifth day, they finally arrived at their destination.

It was a remote region, unaffiliated with either of the two great empires or the Spirit Hall. It was a unique, independent city.

"This city is under Qian Renxue's rule. She's a good friend of mine, so staying here is safe. I left Qiu'er and Yiyi here," Chen Xuan explained.

"Qian Renxue?" Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing hesitated, slightly surprised. The name sounded unfamiliar.

Zhu Zhuqing thought for a moment before recalling a childhood memory. She had heard her family mention a girl born with innate level 20 soul power—her name seemed to be Qian Renxue.

"Yes, the very same Qian Renxue from Spirit Hall," Chen Xuan confirmed. He quickly emphasized that she was not the same as Bibi Dong, to prevent Xiao Wu from misunderstanding.

Xiao Wu wasn't unreasonable. While she hated Spirit Hall, her true hatred was directed at Bibi Dong—the woman who took her mother's life.

"Oh? She took care of Qiu'er?" Upon learning that Qian Renxue had looked after her daughter for a long time, Xiao Wu's concerns dissipated, and she no longer harbored hostility.

"Let's head inside. I'll introduce you to my little sister," Chen Xuan said with a smile, leading them into the city and back to the grand estate where he lived with Qian Renxue.

Chapter 269 Unexpected Event

"Brother, is this sister-in-law?"

In the courtyard, Chen Yiyi circled around Xiao Wu, looking her up and down with curiosity.

She couldn't help but wonder—this girl had the figure, the temperament, and was undeniably a stunning beauty with fair skin and long legs. How on earth did she end up with her brother?

Then, right in front of Chen Xuan, she blurted out, "Sister-in-law, are you blind? How did you end up choosing my brother?"

"Ah…" Xiao Wu's mind went blank. The abruptness of the question left her completely at a loss.

But Chen Yiyi wasn't done yet. She turned her attention to the cold and aloof Zhu Zhuqing, grinning as she asked, "Zhuqing-jie, what should I call you now? Second sister-in-law or first sister-in-law?"

In the distance, Qian Renxue heard the conversation and momentarily froze, her expression slightly dazed, struggling to hold herself together.

"Chen Yiyi, do you have a death wish?" Chen Xuan's face immediately darkened. He grabbed her and dragged her into the house for a serious lesson.

He unleashed the Dragon Subduing Palm, smacking Chen Yiyi's backside hard. The sharp pain made the girl wail, tears almost spilling out.

"Chen Xuan, I'm warning you! If you hit my butt again, I'll never forgive you!"

However, Chen Xuan ignored her, reversing his hand and landing another firm slap on her other side.

"Ah… Chen Xuan, I'll fight you to the death!"

Inside the house, the clattering of pots and pans echoed, but it soon quieted down. Chen Yiyi didn't even get the chance to make a scene before she was completely subdued.

Xiao Wu was speechless but eventually went to call Chen Xuan out, telling him to be kinder to his sister.

"Xiao Wu, Zhuqing, long time no see."

At that moment, Jiangzhu walked in from outside the courtyard, holding a little girl's hand.

Hearing the voice, Zhu Zhuqing turned around, and the sight of the graceful figure before her stunned her—it was Jiangzhu, their old teammate from the Shrek Squad.

"Mommy!"

Upon seeing Xiao Wu, the little girl's eyes lit up with excitement. She ran over, her face full of joy.

"Qiu'er!"

Xiao Wu's eyes turned misty, overwhelmed with happiness. After two years, she was finally reunited with her beloved daughter.

She had a great figure, standing at 175 cm. Wearing crystal high heels, she was half a head taller than Chen Xuan. Now, she effortlessly lifted Chen Qiu'er into the air, holding her up high without the slightest awkwardness.

Watching their mother-daughter reunion, Chen Xuan felt genuinely happy. These people were his family, his dear friends, and his lover. They gave his existence meaning and strengthened his determination to grow even stronger.

With a wife, a daughter, and close companions by his side, his life was already fulfilling. From now on, his duty was to protect this happiness.

Observing Xiao Wu and Qiu'er's affectionate reunion, Qian Renxue's expression darkened. The memories buried deep in her heart were stirred, making her feel uneasy.

"Hmph!" She let out a cold snort before turning and heading back to her room.

That night, as nightfall descended, the courtyard was lively. A bonfire was lit, a grill set up, and the air was filled with the scent of roasting meat.

Chen Xuan personally made a barbecue feast for Qiu'er, inviting Zhu Zhuqing and Jiangzhu to join them for grilled fish, roasted pig trotters, beef skewers, and more.

"Brother, this smells amazing! Can we eat yet?"

Chen Yiyi hovered around the grill, her large eyes fixed on the roasted lamb leg, swallowing her saliva eagerly.

Xiao Wu, now embracing her role as a mother, held Qiu'er's small hand, waiting patiently for their meal.

Back home, she had changed her outfit. Gone were the fairy-like dress and white silk stockings. She had removed her jade hairpin and let down her high ponytail, allowing her gorgeous locks to cascade naturally down to her thighs. Despite the change, she remained just as stunning.

She had chosen a light green home-style dress, revealing her fair and slender legs. With white sandals on her feet, she looked fresh and elegant.

Chen Xuan handed a skewer of grilled lamb to his daughter. Then, as he glanced at Xiao Wu's long hair, he commented, "Your hair is too long. You should cut it a little. It's almost touching the ground."

"Thank you, Daddy."

Qiu'er took the skewer, her bright eyes twinkling as she blew on it carefully, afraid of burning her mouth yet eager to eat.

Xiao Wu huffed proudly. "You men don't understand. Long hair looks the best. Everyone says girls with waist-length hair are the most beautiful."

She was confident in her beauty, never once having a shred of insecurity about her looks. Even though she didn't match up to Qian Renxue's level in terms of appearance and figure, she still firmly believed in her own charm—after all, she had successfully won over Chen Xuan, that bastard.

Chen Xuan's mouth twitched. "Waist-length? This hair of yours is way past that—it's already down to your butt."

Still, he knew when to give compliments. "To me, you're always the most beautiful. I just think trimming it a little would make you look even prettier."

Xiao Wu's face reddened, feeling shy under Zhu Zhuqing and Jiangzhu's watchful eyes.

"Fine, I get it," she muttered. Although embarrassed, she decided she would indeed trim her hair in a few days. After all, she had to fulfill this guy's little request—otherwise, he might get upset.

"Alright, everyone, come and try the food."

Chen Xuan plated the roasted lamb leg, slicing it into thin pieces and drizzling it with sauce. He called Zhu Zhuqing, Jiangzhu, and Chen Yiyi over to eat.

Chen Yiyi took a bite and chewed for a moment before making a dramatic critique.

"The meat is too tough—failure. The gaminess is too strong—failure. And the flavor? Not even well-seasoned—failure of all failures. Honestly, Jiangzhu-jie's cooking is way better…"

She rambled on like a food critic, listing technical terms one after another. But before she could finish, bam!—Chen Xuan smacked her on the head.

"Sister-in-law! Brother is bullying me again!"

Chen Yiyi, teary-eyed, clutched her head and ran straight behind Xiao Wu for cover. The moment she had a shield, she stuck her tongue out at Chen Xuan in defiance.

"Come on, Chen Xuan, do you really have the nerve to argue with your own little sister?"

Xiao Wu spread her arms, shielding Chen Yiyi protectively.

Zhu Zhuqing and Jiangzhu stayed silent, quietly eating their grilled meat on the side.

Chen Xuan sighed, black lines appearing on his forehead. But in the end, he let it slide and picked up a plate of grilled meat, heading toward Qian Renxue's room.

"Thanks."

Qian Renxue didn't refuse.

She spoke calmly, "I'm preparing to take the Angelic Nine Trials. I'll be gone for a long time. There's something you should know—Bibi Dong has convinced my grandfather and secured the support of all the elders. At most, within a month, she will lead the army to attack Jialing Pass."

"Jialing Pass?"

Chen Xuan's expression darkened. That place was crucial—it determined the safety of both the Star Luo and Heaven Dou Empires. If it fell, the two empires would be on the path to destruction.

He realized the final battle was approaching.

The next day.

After finishing her preparations and saying goodbye to Qiu'er, Chen Yiyi, and the others, Qian Renxue left the small city and returned to Spirit Hall.

"I should get my next spirit ring."

With the final war drawing near, Chen Xuan felt the weight of it pressing down on him. He had been consolidating his strength for a long time—it was time for a breakthrough.

In the following days, he and Xiao Wu took Qiu'er out for a stroll in the city, eating, shopping, and buying new clothes for Qiu'er and Yiyi.

Even with Qian Renxue gone, the courtyard remained lively with the two little girls around. Zhu Zhuqing, too, gradually became part of this small family, helping to look after the children.

Three days later.

While Chen Xuan was training in the courtyard, Xiao Wu, with red eyes and tears streaming down her face, rushed to him in a panic.

"Chen Xuan! I had a dream that Da Ming and Er Ming are in danger! Take me to the Star Dou Forest right now!"

Her face was filled with fear, her body trembling. She pleaded with him to use his spatial soul skill to take her there immediately.

Chapter 270: Journey to the Star Dou Forest

"Chen Xuan, I'm so scared. Da Ming and Er Ming must be in trouble."

Xiao Wu sobbed, throwing herself into Chen Xuan's arms, her body trembling uncontrollably, lacking any sense of security.

Tears streamed down her beautiful face, completely devoid of her usual ethereal aura—only fear and unease remained.

"Don't worry, maybe it was just a nightmare." Chen Xuan comforted her, wrapping one arm around her while gently wiping her tears with the other.

Xiao Wu clung to him tightly, her red-rimmed eyes full of desperation as she pleaded, "Chen Xuan, I'm really scared. Please, take me to the Star Dou Forest now."

"Alright." Chen Xuan's heart softened, and he stopped hesitating.

He threw out a kunai and immediately activated his space-time ability. In an instant, the two of them transformed into a streak of golden light, soaring into the sky.

He still needed two more spirit rings and had been planning to head out soon. This trip might as well serve as an early departure to the Star Dou Forest.

This time, his Flying Thunder God technique broke the sound barrier, pushing his speed to the limit. At three times the speed of sound, he shot forward like a streak of light, disappearing into the clouds within moments.

Zhu Zhuqing, holding little Qiuer's hand, stepped out of the house and watched as the golden light vanished into the sky.

"Qiuer, go play with Aunt Jiangzhu. I have something to take care of," she said, smiling at the young girl.

"Oh... okay." Chen Qiuer reluctantly let go of Aunt Zhuqing's hand, still nibbling on her candied hawthorn, and ran off to find Jiangzhu and Chen Yiyi.

Once Qiuer was gone, Zhu Zhuqing's expression turned cold, her usual aloof demeanor returning.

She retrieved a box from her soul tool, its divine aura restrained—it was none other than the six-piece divine bone set.

She was sharp, and from the way Chen Xuan and Xiao Wu had been acting, she had picked up on some clues. It seemed they might have gotten into trouble with powerful figures.

"I hope I can help you..." Zhu Zhuqing murmured, holding the box flowing with divine energy before retreating into her room to begin absorbing the six soul bone pieces.

Half a day passed...

Above the clouds, Chen Xuan pushed his Flying Thunder God to its limits, covering more than half the distance to the Star Dou Forest. Only one or two thousand miles remained.

Flying at three times the speed of sound was fast, but it was also a significant drain on his energy, especially while carrying another person. His soul power consumption had nearly doubled.

After half a day's flight, he had less than half of his soul power left.

Chen Xuan wasn't sure if he could reach the Star Dou Forest before his energy ran out.

"I hope it's just Xiao Wu's imagination..." he muttered, not wanting anything to happen to the two hundred-thousand-year-old soul beasts.

Although Xiao Wu had fully transformed into a human, the sensory connection between soul beasts remained. Whether this ability still worked, he wasn't sure.

He silently prayed. The Sky Azure Bull Python and the Titan Giant Ape were Xiao Wu's brothers—they were family. He didn't want to see them perish.

At the same time, he was deeply puzzled. These two were the overlords of the forest, strong enough to rival rank ninety-eight spirit masters. Who could possibly take them down so easily?

Even if it were Bibi Dong, a half-god, she wouldn't be able to instantly wipe out two hundred-thousand-year-old soul beasts, right?

Tang San was long dead, and Chen Xuan couldn't think of anyone else. Unless… Tang San had been resurrected?

He shook his head. That possibility was far too unrealistic. If someone's body had been completely destroyed and they had truly died, even a Creator God wouldn't be able to bring them back.

Chen Xuan continued accelerating with Flying Thunder God. Since he couldn't figure it out, he decided not to dwell on it. He would find out the truth once they reached the Star Dou Forest.

Time passed, and the setting sun gradually dipped toward the horizon, painting the sky a deep crimson with a sense of desolation.

As dusk arrived, fortune was on their side. Just as Chen Xuan's soul power was about to run out, they arrived at their destination—the depths of the Star Dou Forest. However, they were still some distance away from the central area.

As soon as they landed, Xiao Wu immediately supported Chen Xuan, worry written all over her face. She was both anxious and deeply grateful to the man beside her.

In less than a day, he had brought her to the Star Dou Forest. She knew he must have pushed himself to the absolute limit, never once relaxing.

"Chen Xuan, having you here is wonderful. Thank you." Xiao Wu's eyes brimmed with tears. Overwhelmed with emotion, she stood on tiptoe and planted a kiss on his lips.

Chen Xuan, still in a weakened state, was caught off guard. He hadn't expected Xiao Wu to be so forward.

After recovering from his surprise, he pulled her into his arms and returned the kiss with passion.

What truly shocked him was that, for some reason, Xiao Wu didn't resist this time. Instead, she responded willingly.

Perhaps it was the environment, her lack of security, or her inner fear—she desperately sought comfort in Chen Xuan's embrace.

Without saying a word, Chen Xuan held her tightly, providing her with the warmth and safety she needed.

The timing wasn't right, so their embrace didn't last too long. After a moment, they broke apart.

"Chen Xuan... are you feeling better?" Xiao Wu lowered her head, her cheeks flushed red. She was incredibly shy, unable to meet his gaze.

The moment the kiss ended, she regretted it. She felt like she had been too forward, like a lonely woman seeking comfort. She was afraid Chen Xuan might misunderstand and think she was a frivolous girl.

In truth, Chen Xuan didn't mind at all. On the contrary, he was delighted. He secretly wished Xiao Wu would take the initiative more often—or at least not refuse him so much. That would make him truly happy.

"Let's go. I'm fine. My stamina is great, just out of soul power," he reassured her, easing her concern.

Xiao Wu was still worried about his condition, but the thought of Da Ming and Er Ming filled her with anxiety. She needed to get to the central area as soon as possible.

"Chen Xuan, stand still. I'll carry you," she said, crouching down.

Chen Xuan's eye twitched. Letting a girl carry him? That felt… strange. But given the urgency of the situation, he had no choice but to comply. Slowly, he climbed onto her back.

"Xiao Wu is my wife. This is nothing!" He muttered to himself, trying to shake off the embarrassment.

Xiao Wu hoisted him up and activated her teleportation soul skill, darting through the forest.

From the moment she touched Chen Xuan, her face grew redder and redder, her heart pounding wildly. She was incredibly sensitive and had clearly felt something hard pressing against her.

"Chen Xuan, can you stop thinking about that kind of stuff!" she snapped, embarrassed and furious. This guy was as shameless as ever, always thinking about indecent things.

Chen Xuan remained calm and countered, "At a time like this, what nonsense are you thinking? Do you really think your husband is that kind of person?"

"Who's your wife!" Under the crimson glow of the sunset, Xiao Wu's fair face looked even more stunning, tinged with a rosy blush. Her high ponytail swayed behind her.

"Chen Xuan, if you keep running your mouth, I'll drop you right here and leave you behind!" Her earlier worry and gratitude had vanished, replaced by an annoyed glare.

Chen Xuan twitched his lips and pulled a sleek black weapon from his pocket. "It's just a kunai. You were overthinking."

"You'd better be telling the truth!" Xiao Wu huffed, her cheeks still red.

"Men's words are all lies," she thought to herself, recalling what Zhuqing had once said. When it came to Chen Xuan, she had to stay cautious.

Chapter 271 Tragedy

Deep within the Star Dou Forest

The forest at night was especially dangerous—a paradise for soul beasts. The rustling of grass could be heard, and distant roars of large beasts echoed through the woods.

However, with Xiao Wu releasing a trace of her hundred-thousand-year aura, it was as if the entire world hit the pause button. The forest suddenly fell silent—not even the chirp of insects remained.

Chen Xuan was impressed. This method was truly effective. Even though he no longer feared danger, with his soul power nearly depleted, even a random ten-thousand-year soul beast posed a massive threat.

Still, he wasn't without a way to save himself. In a moment of crisis, he could draw a small amount of natural energy from the fruit tree behind his heart to kill the enemy.

The night sky sparkled with stars, and pure moonlight poured down, illuminating the forest path.

Xiao Wu summoned her Soft Bone Rabbit martial soul and carried Chen Xuan on her back, darting through the mountains and forests. Though she was just a step away from reaching level ninety, continuously using soul skills consumed her soul power rapidly.

By the latter half of the night, she was nearly drained and had no choice but to stop and rest.

"Don't worry. Once I recover a bit more soul power, I'll be able to use my space-type soul technique again," Chen Xuan said.

He gathered some firewood and lit a campfire on the grass beside the river. The flames flickered, casting light over a small area.

Xiao Wu, having been on high alert the entire journey, now found herself overwhelmed by fatigue.

Soon, drowsiness overtook her. She leaned into Chen Xuan's arms, resting her little head on his shoulder and falling asleep.

"Get some proper rest." Chen Xuan gently picked her up, placed her head on his thigh, and brushed away a few stray strands of hair, doing his best to make her sleep comfortably.

In a flash of consciousness, his spiritual form entered the world behind his heart. The fruit tree was thick and sturdy, shrouded in wisps of white mist that drifted like immortal energy.

"Hurry up and feed me some soul power," Chen Xuan said bluntly, walking up and kicking the tree twice, forcing it to release energy.

They say you nurture a tree for ten years and use it in a day—this was that kind of moment.

Only a few hours remained until dawn. Without drawing energy from the fruit tree, even with his immense reserves, he wouldn't be able to fully recover—he'd be lucky to get even half.

Without enough soul power, a sudden emergency could be catastrophic.

At the same time, Chen Xuan thought about the two soul beasts. If they were really in danger, then most likely… it was already too late. By the time he and Xiao Wu arrived, what had to happen would already be over.

At that moment, the fruit trembled, and the leaves swayed, releasing threads of white mist containing vast energy.

Chen Xuan hurried to catch and absorb them. In an instant, he felt refreshed and energized. All fatigue vanished—the effect was immediate.

He looked inward. His depleted soul power pool was now being replenished as waves of energy poured into his body and were gradually absorbed.

Several hours passed. The sky began to lighten—the dimness of night fading as morning arrived.

"Finally recovered." Chen Xuan opened his eyes, feeling light and full of power. Even if danger came, he could now fight like a god.

He found the soul power from the fruit tree even purer than his own—higher in quality. If used in soul techniques or ninjutsu, it could unleash even greater strength.

"Xiao Wu, we can move out." Chen Xuan gently woke her, then threw a kunai and used Flying Thunder God to continue their journey.

The kunai broke the sound barrier, turning into a golden streak of light, flying toward the center of the Star Dou Forest at three times the speed of sound.

"Chen Xuan, I still can't sense Da Ming or Er Ming's presence… Could it be that they've already…" Xiao Wu's face was pale, her body trembling uncontrollably with fear and anxiety.

Panic surged in her heart. She clung tightly to Chen Xuan's arm, seeking comfort. At first, she thought the distance was the reason she couldn't sense Da Ming and Er Ming. But now they were nearing the central region, and still—there was nothing.

"Chen Xuan… have Da Ming and Er Ming already…" Xiao Wu's fair, delicate face had lost all color. She couldn't finish her sentence. The truth was already clear—Sky Azure Bull Python and Titan Giant Ape were gone.

Chen Xuan's mood turned heavy. His current sensing ability was extraordinary, capable of scanning a radius of fifty to sixty li. He had already scouted last night and found no trace of either soul beast.

He didn't speak. Silently, he channeled more soul power, increasing the speed of Flying Thunder God.

When the first rays of morning sunlight broke through the forest canopy, Chen Xuan arrived at the central region.

He retrieved his kunai and landed safely with Xiao Wu on a cliff, then walked forward with a heavy heart.

This was their home—the place they once lived. Maple trees, water, a lake, and that warm little wooden cabin.

But when the scene ahead came into view, Xiao Wu's face went stark white. Her legs gave out and she collapsed to the ground.

Her eyes turned red, and tears poured uncontrollably, soaking the earth as she cried in silence.

Chen Xuan also froze when he saw the scene below the cliff, his heart shaking as if struck by a tidal wave.

The beautiful green expanse was gone—no sea of maple trees, no warm cottage, not even the massive lake remained. Everything had vanished without a trace.

Below the cliff was barren land, a desolate sight that filled one with fear.

That once-familiar place had become nothing but an enormous, boundless crater—like the aftermath of a meteor strike from the heavens.

Nothing remained. It was utterly barren, not a single plant in sight. The ground was cracked and dry. Even the lake had completely evaporated—not a single drop of water left. Its dry bed was exposed, as if it had been parched for ten thousand years.

"H-How could this happen? Da Ming… Er Ming… what happened to you?" Xiao Wu sobbed, her face pale with despair.

Chen Xuan's expression darkened, a fire flickering in his eyes. He was furious. Who did this?

But he didn't lose his composure. Right now, the most important thing was to comfort Xiao Wu.

Chen Xuan pulled her into his arms, saying nothing. He simply held her close and wiped away her tears.

At times like this, silence worked better than a thousand words. What she needed was a hug—not hollow reassurance.

"Chen Xuan… Da Ming and Er Ming were the last of my family… and now they're gone. What am I supposed to do…" Xiao Wu cried so hard her voice trembled, filled with endless sorrow and pain.

She clung to Chen Xuan, sobbing uncontrollably—heart-wrenching cries of unbearable grief. In this moment, she was no longer a mother—just a helpless little girl.

"Don't cry. I'll handle everything," Chen Xuan said, though the words caught in his throat.

His heart was heavy, full of grief and rage. But he didn't show it too much.

He gently wiped the tears from her pale cheeks. Seeing her cry like that made his heart ache—as if a thousand blades were stabbing into him.

A fire burned inside him. The Sky Azure Bull Python and Titan Giant Ape were Xiao Wu's family—and his too. Now, tragedy had struck. Their fate unknown. Their home destroyed.

Chen Xuan made a silent vow—no matter who did this, he would find them.

And they would pay—in blood.

Chapter 272 Descent of the Gods

Chen Xuan's heart was heavy. The two hundred-thousand-year soul beasts had vanished without a trace—their life or death unknown.

In the past, the Sky Azure Bull Python and the Titan Giant Ape had helped him, guarding him in silence for one or two years while he was in seclusion, never allowing anyone to disturb him.

And now, those very soul beasts had met with misfortune. They had arrived too late—not even the culprit was known.

Xiao Wu, always so lovely and graceful, her snow-white, pink face was now streaked with tears. She was more heartbroken and anguished than anyone.

After her mother passed away, Da Ming and Er Ming were the only family she had left. They shared bonds spanning tens of thousands of years, yet they still left her in the end.

Xiao Wu cried for a long time. Her beautiful eyes were swollen, her face pale and drained of color, marked by two trails of tears.

Only after quite a while did she finally wipe away her tears and slowly regain her composure. But her eyes remained red.

"Rest here for a while. I'll go take a look." Chen Xuan ended the embrace and let Xiao Wu go.

He leapt down from the cliff, landing on the parched earth. Ahead lay desolation—the land cracked and dry, with little left to investigate.

Chen Xuan spread out his senses, moving through the massive crater, feeling along the fractured terrain, hoping to find any clue at all.

Unfortunately, he searched almost the entire area and found nothing. Too much time had passed. Even if soul power had lingered, it would've dissipated by now.

"Chen Xuan, did you find anything?" Xiao Wu leapt down into the crater and came to his side, wanting to help him search for clues.

Chen Xuan shook his head and sighed. They were too late. There was no way soul power could have remained until now.

The only thing they could deduce was how dry the land was—as if it had been waterless for years. That meant at least one of the perpetrators had fire-attribute soul power.

Xiao Wu felt low. Da Ming and Er Ming were gone, and she didn't even have a target for revenge.

"Don't worry. We'll find a way." Chen Xuan comforted her, pulling her into his arms.

In truth, even he felt at a loss. With not even a shred of evidence left behind, where could they possibly start?

"Looks like you two need some help." Suddenly, a deep, resonant voice rang out. It sounded both distant and close at the same time—blurring the line between reality and illusion.

Chen Xuan frowned and once again expanded his senses, locking onto the direction of the voice. Several kilometers away, a figure appeared.

A man walked toward them from the distance, tall and imposing—at least eight feet in height. Even before he approached, an overwhelming soul beast aura wafted in.

"Who are you?" Chen Xuan immediately turned, eyes sharp and alert as he stared at the approaching figure.

Xiao Wu froze. Even from far away, she sensed the soul beast aura on him—he was definitely not an ordinary human, but a soul beast in human form.

This man moved strangely, as if the earth shrank beneath his feet. What should've taken hundreds of steps only took a few, and soon he was right before them.

As the man approached, Chen Xuan finally got a good look at him. His face bore a few wrinkles, his hair black and not yet graying—he had the appearance of a middle-aged man.

His body was solid and muscular, tall and robust, exuding the aura of a fierce beast from head to toe.

Clearly, this was intentional. A soul beast that had taken human form would normally suppress its aura after reaching level sixty—yet he let it flow freely.

"Who are you?" Chen Xuan repeated, his tone cold. Given the timing, he had to remain cautious.

The aura coming from this man was dense and powerful, and appearing in the Star Dou Forest… his true strength was definitely close to rank ninety-nine.

Xiao Wu had felt fear at first, but with Chen Xuan standing protectively in front of her, her unease quickly faded, replaced with a profound sense of security.

She felt touched. No matter what happened, Chen Xuan's first instinct was always to protect her. It had become a reflex. This was her man—she had made the right choice.

"So, you're the one my master spoke of," the rugged man said, his eyes sizing Chen Xuan up with a few glances.

"Master?" Chen Xuan frowned. In the Star Dou Forest, there was only one soul beast that would be referred to with such a title.

In an instant, a figure surfaced in his mind—Gu Yuena, the Silver Dragon King, a split body of the Dragon God, with power at the level of a first-class deity at her peak.

"My name is Di Tian. I am the Beast God," the rugged man introduced himself.

Xiao Wu was confused—this name was completely unfamiliar to her. Who would've thought that aside from Da Ming and Er Ming, such a powerful hundred-thousand-year soul beast also lived deep within the Star Dou Forest?

"Your master is Gu Yuena?" Chen Xuan asked. His restless thoughts calmed—he had already figured out most of it.

Di Tian raised an eyebrow in surprise, then smiled and said, "My master was right—you really do know her."

He paused, then looked at the massive crater within the forest, his eyes filled with memory. "My master sent me to tell you what you want to know. Think of it as… her way of helping you."

"Why would she help us?" Chen Xuan asked warily. Though he knew of Gu Yuena, they had never met, nor did they have any connection.

Xiao Wu was stirred, her heart full of restless emotion. She desperately wanted to know what had happened to Da Ming and Er Ming—what had truly occurred?

"To be honest, I don't think it counts as much help. I'm simply here to pass along the information you seek. That's my master's will—I'm just following orders."

Di Tian looked at the crater—an expanse of desolation where not even weeds grew. He sighed and said, "Two days ago, a divine light descended from beyond the sky. Just one strike… and this place was utterly destroyed."

He recalled the event. It happened one morning—the sky split open, and an immensely powerful beam of light shot down, directly targeting the home of the Sky Azure Bull Python and Titan Giant Ape.

That beam carried divine power, terrifying beyond words. Mountains, forests, lakes—everything was swallowed by the divine light, utterly erased in that overwhelming storm of energy. Nothing could survive.

Even now, Di Tian's pupils trembled in fear at the memory. That energy was so dreadful it blurred the sky and twisted the void, sweeping away everything in its path. Nothing could stand against it.

Just that single beam of light—not even particularly thick—unleashed supreme power, obliterating this entire region and turning the earth into barren death.

This massive crater they now stood in… that's how it came to be.

"Later, three people descended from the sky. They carried divine aura and chaos. Even I couldn't clearly see their faces—they were shrouded in haze," Di Tian said with awe.

It had to be understood: although he was a hundred-thousand-year soul beast, his true cultivation far exceeded that, surpassing 800,000 years—far stronger than the two former forest overlords.

Among soul masters, he was on par with a demi-god, perhaps even higher.

After hearing all this, Chen Xuan's expression darkened. Fury surged within him, overflowing with killing intent.

He didn't even need to think—he already knew who those people were. There was no way this had nothing to do with the Sea God!

"My master told me—those three were not soul masters from this continent. They were gods from another realm. Two second-class gods and one first-class god. Any one of them is beyond the likes of you and me," Di Tian said.

Though he spoke calmly, there was bitterness in his tone. To reach his level was to stand at the peak of the continent. Even titled Douluo were nothing to him.

But two days ago, three gods descended, shattering all limitations, standing far above all soul beasts and soul masters. They could crush someone like him with a single hand.

Even his master, Gu Yuena—so powerful in her prime—admitted that she couldn't stand against those three.