Chapter 248: A Gift
"Today I've come to express my gratitude for your life-saving help," Dai Yao said, bowing respectfully as he met Ning Fengzhi and Chenxin. But upon seeing the sword master's deadly expression and the deeply worried look on Ning Fengzhi's face, he asked, confused, "Sect Leader Ning, Sword Grandpa, is something wrong?"
Seeing Dai Yao arrive in person to give his thanks, Ning Fengzhi felt a touch of relief. He understood the risks Dai Yao had taken in coming here, yet his gratitude was soon overtaken by the anxiety he felt for Ning Rongrong. Forcing a strained smile, he replied, "Oh, it's nothing—just some matters of the sect."
Dai Yao, perceptive as always, understood that for Ning Fengzhi to appear this burdened, the problem had to be serious. Although he was a guest of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan, he knew his limits and refrained from probing further.
After observing Dai Yao intently for a while, Sword Douluo finally spoke up. "Fengzhi, maybe you should tell him. This is about Rongrong, after all. Dai Yao deserves to know."
"Uncle Sword… are you sure?" Ning Fengzhi hesitated, then sighed deeply, turning to Dai Yao. "Dai Yao, you've probably noticed that Rongrong has been a bit frail recently."
The mention of her condition immediately brought to mind Ning Rongrong's bouts of coughing, and Dai Yao's heart sank. "Uncle Ning, has something… happened to her?" he asked carefully.
Ning Fengzhi's tone softened with sorrow as he replied, "Rongrong's foundation has been damaged…"
"What? That's impossible!" Dai Yao's eyes widened in disbelief. In the original story, nothing of the sort had ever happened to Ning Rongrong.
Ning Fengzhi proceeded to recount Ning Rongrong's experience and his own conclusions, while Dai Yao began to piece together the changes he had inadvertently caused in the storyline. Originally, after arriving in the Heaven Dou Empire, Tang San had given everyone rare immortal herbs, whose powerful effects not only replenished their bodies but also greatly enhanced their potential. But this time, without access to those herbs, Shrek's team couldn't reserve their energy during the qualifiers and the finals, forcing Ning Rongrong into more frequent battles and further exhausting her strength.
As for whether Yu Xiaogang had intentionally pushed his students beyond their limits, Dai Yao wasn't entirely sure. He doubted Yu Xiaogang's competence; though he had gained fame for his theories, his core ideas were largely untested and based on inadequate data. Instead of diligently conducting research during his time at Notting Academy, Yu Xiaogang had merely coasted by.
Then, there were the inconsistencies. For example, how did Yu Xiaogang know about creatures like the Azure Bull Python, Titan Giant Ape, and Dark Demon Evil God Tiger—rare, high-level soul beasts typically known only to titled Douluo? Dai Yao had concluded that much of his knowledge likely came from Bibi Dong. This would also explain how Yu Xiaogang, as a low-ranking soul master, had access to secrets known only to Wuhun Hall, such as the details of Seagod Island.
Furthermore, Yu Xiaogang's core training theories had never been properly tested, yet he risked using them on Tang San, even having him absorb the first spirit ring from a creature that had previously been considered too risky. He hadn't even gone to Flender, a seven-ringed soul saint, for help, preferring to keep his plans secret, perhaps fearing Flender's disapproval of his dangerous methods.
In the end, Ning Fengzhi's voice held a deep sadness as he concluded, "If we don't find a miracle cure, Rongrong's future may be ruined."
Such miraculous herbs were extremely rare. The Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan only possessed a few, and most of them were too potent for Ning Rongrong's condition. The alternatives would require time to locate, time she didn't have.
Dai Yao's heart ached for Ning Rongrong. Though they had declared an end to their relationship, the memories of their time together in his dreams couldn't simply be erased, and he felt especially indebted to the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan after today.
The three men fell silent, a somber atmosphere filling the air. Dai Yao's mind raced, recalling potential cures from the original story, including his own Chaos Green Lotus ability. Then suddenly, he remembered something—he still had the Eight-Petal Immortal Orchid he'd once intended to exchange with Tang San, but had ended up keeping in favor of the Dew of Insight.
"Ning Uncle, Sword Grandpa, I may have a way to help," Dai Yao announced, his voice breaking the silence.
"You do?" Ning Fengzhi's eyes lit up with hope. Seizing Dai Yao's shoulders, he asked fervently, "Tell me, what can be done?"
In that moment, he was no longer the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect's esteemed leader but simply a father desperate to help his daughter. Dai Yao even felt the slight sting of his grip—surprising for a support spirit master.
Clearing his throat, Dai Yao said, "I have a rare herb called the Eight-Petal Immortal Orchid. It's gentle yet powerful, capable of restoring and enhancing one's life force. I believe it can mend the damage to Rongrong's foundation."
Ning Fengzhi was momentarily speechless, as was Sword Douluo. Both had heard legends of the Eight-Petal Immortal Orchid but never imagined they would encounter such a miraculous herb. After a moment, Ning Fengzhi managed to respond, "Dai Yao, this herb is a treasure beyond words, and to offer it so willingly… I can't even begin to express my gratitude."
Dai Yao replied, "Uncle Ning, Rongrong's health is more important than anything else. The Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan saved my life today—this is the least I can do."
Sword Douluo's solemn expression softened, and he placed a hand on Dai Yao's shoulder, his gaze one of both admiration and gratitude. "Young man, you've earned a friend for life," he said.
Dai Yao reached into his spatial ring, retrieving the herb whose petals glistened with a soft, ethereal glow. Handing it to Ning Fengzhi, he added, "Make sure she consumes it in a quiet environment where she can meditate afterward to let the herb's energy settle deeply into her."
Ning Fengzhi accepted the orchid with reverence, nodding his understanding. "Thank you, Dai Yao. From now on, you will always have a place with the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan."
Sword Douluo, his previous aura of wrath completely replaced by calm pride, said, "With this debt repaid, you have the full support of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan behind you."
Watching them, Dai Yao felt a renewed sense of resolve. His future in Wuhun Hall was far from guaranteed, but tonight he had made a commitment to himself—to honor those who had shown him loyalty.
As the three of them left the garden, Dai Yao couldn't help but feel the weight of what lay ahead. Whatever challenges he would face, he now had allies by his side, and he was ready to face them all.
Under the intense gaze of Ning Fengzhi and Chenxin, Dai Yao reached into his magic pouch, carefully extracting two items before presenting them. Upon seeing the two treasures, both Ning Fengzhi and Chenxin felt their breath quicken.
"This first item," Dai Yao began, holding up a delicate, vibrant flower, "is called the Eight-Petal Immortal Orchid. Ning Uncle, you may remember it from before. Its properties are gentle, ideally suited to support-type soul masters, as it strengthens the core, purifies impurities, and can aid in overcoming the naturally slower cultivation of support specialists—all the way to the level of a seven-ring Soul Sage."
"With this herb," he continued, "Rongrong's damaged foundation will be fully restored."
He then gestured to the second item, a glowing crystalized spirit bone. "This is a Mirage Skull spirit bone, over ten thousand years old. It's a rare, gem-type spirit bone, ideal for Rongrong's Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda. Once she's recovered, absorbing this spirit bone will help her advance beyond where she was before her injury."
Dai Yao held the orchid in his left hand and the colorful spirit bone in his right, offering each with a brief explanation. In his mind, the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan's life-saving help could not be adequately repaid with just the Eight-Petal Immortal Orchid. As for the Mirage Skull spirit bone, he knew that in the original story it had gone to Ning Rongrong anyway, so it felt only right to gift it to her now.
Ning Fengzhi and Chenxin were momentarily speechless, stunned by how easily Dai Yao had provided the solution to what had been their most troubling dilemma. Moreover, he was even giving them a spirit bone tailored specifically to enhance Ning Rongrong's abilities.
They shared a look, both filled with astonishment and excitement. Dai Yao not only possessed a rare spirit bone but had yet to absorb it himself. For most soul masters, finding a spirit bone was a monumental achievement, and they would absorb it immediately.
Holding back his excitement, Ning Fengzhi said, "Dai Yao, we accept the Eight-Petal Immortal Orchid with gratitude. However, the spirit bone… it is far too precious. Rongrong cannot accept it."
Hearing Ning Fengzhi's firm tone, Dai Yao's eyes sparkled with a sly glint. "Uncle Ning, are you suggesting that my life is worth less than a spirit bone? If that's what you're saying, then I won't insist on this."
"This…" Ning Fengzhi hesitated, genuinely conflicted. While the spirit bone was indeed invaluable, rejecting it would mean admitting that Dai Yao's life wasn't worth it. How could he, in good conscience, say such a thing?
Watching this exchange, Sword Douluo found the sight almost surreal. It seemed as though they were passing a priceless spirit bone back and forth like a mere trinket.
"Alright, enough," Sword Douluo interrupted with a smile. "Fengzhi, just accept Dai Yao's gesture of goodwill on Rongrong's behalf." Turning to Dai Yao, he added warmly, "Come with us, Dai Yao, to see Rongrong."
Dai Yao hesitated, then shook his head with a smile. "I think it's better if I don't. Rongrong already insisted on cutting ties with me; my presence will only make things more uncomfortable. I still have the competition tomorrow, so I should get some rest."
Sword Douluo and Ning Fengzhi exchanged a silent, somewhat puzzled glance, both slightly bemused by the young ones' quarrel. Sword Douluo chuckled. "If you're sure, then I won't force you. Fengzhi, stop standing around! Don't delay any longer; go give Rongrong the herb immediately."
With a resolute nod, Ning Fengzhi turned and hurried off, the sound of his jade staff tapping the ground echoing as he departed.
"Dai Yao," Sword Douluo spoke kindly, his hands clasped behind his back. "Would you join this old man for a walk?"
"With pleasure," Dai Yao responded with a smile.
In Ning Rongrong's lavish chamber, an array of rare and delectable dishes were laid out on the table, though she barely glanced at them. Still feeling troubled and restless, she forced herself to take a few bites, thinking of her father's and Sword Douluo's insistence.
Her frustration was more than just physical fatigue. She had spent years striving to be accepted by the Shrek Seven, yet today, she felt cast aside by them. The pain in her heart eclipsed any exhaustion she felt.
The hurtful moment echoed in her mind: Dai Mubai had declared "six as one," excluding her. The memory filled her with bitterness and regret, compounded by the silence of her friends, who hadn't even spoken up for her. The years she had spent trying to belong felt painfully futile.
"Miss, please try to eat a little," her head maid urged gently, observing how little Ning Rongrong had touched her food.
Her maid's words pricked at Ning Rongrong's patience. Her father always praised her for being mature, but was maturity just endless compromise? She truly had no appetite.
In her younger, more headstrong days, she would have overturned the table in frustration. Instead, she merely forced a small smile. "Alright, I'll try," she said softly.
Seeing Ning Rongrong's sweet response, the maid was surprised and a little moved by her young mistress's growth. But Ning Rongrong felt her frustration intensify, thinking of her father's grim expression during her earlier examination. Anxiety twisted within her.
"Could it be that my health problem… is worse than I thought?" she wondered, worry flickering in her coffee-brown eyes.
Just then, the door opened abruptly. Ning Fengzhi entered, his face alight with joy, and gestured for the dozen or so maids to leave the room.
"Father," Ning Rongrong murmured, her unease growing as she took in his intense expression. "Is there something wrong with me?"
Realizing his slip, Ning Fengzhi composed himself, his relief evident as he said, "Rongrong, forgive me for worrying you. During your examination, I discovered that years of exertion have left you with accumulated injuries that, without proper treatment, have weakened your foundation."
Shocked, Ning Rongrong's face paled. As a soul master, she understood the implications. Forcing a weak smile, she asked, "Are you sure? Maybe there was a mistake…"
With a sigh, Ning Fengzhi spoke with regret. "Rongrong, this is my fault. I shouldn't have let you train at Shrek Academy. If not for their methods…"
Realizing he had spoken out of turn, he quickly softened his tone. "But I have good news, too. I've found a solution."
Ning Rongrong, who was no longer the impetuous "little witch" of her youth, detected the hidden criticism of Shrek Academy in his words. Though her heart was heavy with the realization, she composed herself and smiled at her father. "What's the solution, Father?"
Ning Fengzhi spread his hands, revealing two items: the Eight-Petal Immortal Orchid and the Mirage Skull, both gifts from Dai Yao.
He began to explain their properties, but Ning Rongrong couldn't hear a thing. From the moment she saw them, it felt as if her surroundings fell silent.
Her face was expressionless, but silent tears began to roll down her cheeks. She didn't know why she was crying; her heart, however, was filled with complex emotions. She knew all too well whose gifts these were.
After all, she had witnessed Dai Yao obtain the Mirage Skull with her own eyes when he defeated Shi Nian.
The loneliness and pain from feeling abandoned by the Shrek Seven were suddenly replaced with a bittersweet warmth brought by Dai Yao's gifts. Her delicate fingers clutched the blue silk fabric of her gown, wrinkling it deeply. Her whole body shook slightly, yet a smile gradually spread across her tear-streaked face.
Though she was crying, her smile was one of pure joy. As she wiped her eyes, she murmured softly, "That silly fool..."
"Rongrong, why are you crying?" Ning Fengzhi stopped his explanation, gently wiping away her tears, concerned.
Ning Rongrong didn't answer but asked urgently, "Father, is Dai Yao here?"
Ning Fengzhi smiled, softly tidying her hair as he replied, "Yes, he's walking outside with Sword Grandpa."
Without another word, Ning Rongrong dashed out of the room with surprising speed for a support-type spirit master. Watching her hurry off, Ning Fengzhi shook his head with a sigh. "This girl... she really is all grown up now."
"These two children... just let them be. Maybe, just maybe, Dai Yao might eventually leave Spirit Hall…"
Ning Rongrong ran outside with a joyful smile, causing several servants to look on in surprise. When she reached the garden, she bumped into Sword Douluo on his way back after seeing Dai Yao off.
She scanned around him quickly, catching her breath as she asked with urgency, "Sword Grandpa, where did Dai Yao go?"
Sword Douluo paused, then chuckled. "I just saw him off. At his pace, he's likely near the main gate by now."
The Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan's estate in Spirit City spanned hundreds of acres, meaning it took some time to reach the entrance at a leisurely pace. Anxiety filling her expression, Ning Rongrong gathered up her dress and, with her coffee-brown hair flying behind her, sprinted toward the gate.
Watching her go, Sword Douluo smiled warmly. With his speed, he could have easily caught up to Dai Yao, but he chose to let Ning Rongrong have her moment, thinking, "Rongrong, I've already cleared the path for you. Sometimes, love is something you have to chase on your own."
Meanwhile, Dai Yao was strolling slowly along the estate's broad paths, observing the surroundings and growing even more aware of the clan's wealth.
"No wonder they didn't mind the price when buying Tang San's hidden weapons," he thought with a wry smile. "This really is like a poor merchant meeting an oil-rich sheikh."
As he neared the main gate, Dai Yao sighed softly, ready to continue on his way when he suddenly heard a gentle voice call out, "Wait!"
Turning, he saw Ning Rongrong, breathless from running, catching up to him. He stared, surprised.
"Ning Rongrong, you…"
"I…"
She looked at him but couldn't find the words. A burst of courage had brought her this far, but now that it was fading, reason was taking over again.
They stood there silently, each knowing the unspoken divide between them—a gulf as vast as the one between Spirit Hall and the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan.
Biting her lip, Ning Rongrong looked at him with a mixture of emotions, murmuring, "Thank you…"
Dai Yao smiled slightly. "No problem."
After that, they both fell silent, the stillness between them stretching on. The evening breeze stirred her hair, fanning the unspoken feelings in her heart. It was as if the world around them had faded, leaving only the two of them in that quiet moment.
Neither of them moved to leave, merely holding each other's gaze. Finally, after gathering her courage once more, Ning Rongrong smiled and said, "Dai Yao, tomorrow's the final match against Spirit Hall's team. Make sure you do your best!"
"Of course," he replied, nodding with a smile.
It was time to go, and with a wave, Dai Yao turned to leave. As he walked away, he couldn't help but wonder if joining Spirit Hall had been the wrong decision. Joining the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan and building strength there could have made him powerful as well.
But he quickly shook his head. To avenge his mother, his only option was Spirit Hall or the Heaven Dou Empire—and since Heaven Dou needed to first overcome Spirit Hall, joining Spirit Hall was his best choice.
As Dai Yao's figure receded, Ning Rongrong's delicate hands tightened into fists. She stood at the edge of the estate, watching the empty street where he'd vanished, sighing softly into the empty air, a mixture of sadness and longing left in her heart.
In the silence, she felt a quiet, lonely ache.
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