In Zhou Sicheng's mind, trading information about his exceptional martial soul talent in exchange for the support of the Star Luo Empire was undoubtedly a highly profitable deal.
After all, his true trump cards—the terrifying powers hidden deep in the shadows, never once revealed to the world—remained untouched, lying dormant and perfectly preserved.
Zhou Sicheng understood better than anyone the value of a hundred-thousand-year soul beast embryo. It was a treasure capable of shaking the entire Douluo Continent to its core.
Even if he had to discard everything else, he would not hesitate to exchange information about his martial soul if it meant acquiring the Snow Empress' embryo.
Because he knew that as long as his soul power reached Rank 60, he would be able to form a contract with the Snow Empress' embryo.
At that moment, with the overwhelming might of the Snow Empress at his side, he would instantly ascend into the ranks of the continent's true top-tier powerhouses, finally gaining the qualifications to "sit at the table" of the strongest.
Now, though Zhou Sicheng had already withdrawn his martial soul and soul rings, Xu Jiawei and Xu Jiujiu were still immersed in the shock of what they had just witnessed, unable to recover from the awe-inspiring display of his power.
To their eyes, a prodigy like Zhou Sicheng was like an immovable pillar of reassurance, bringing infinite hope to the future of the Star Luo Empire.
Only after a long while did Xu Jiujiu gradually collect her scattered thoughts, piecing together what had happened from her brother's words and Elder Xuan's earlier conversation with Zhou Sicheng.
According to her imperial brother's description, Zhou Sicheng had contracted with four ten-thousand-year soul beasts and even one hundred-thousand-year soul beast. Such terrifying power—forget Soul Saints—even a Title Douluo would not dare to treat him lightly in battle.
"No wonder Zhou Sicheng was chosen as the main team captain of Shrek Academy!" Xu Jiujiu marveled inwardly.
Yet a question lingered in her mind: with such incredible strength, why would he bother participating in this tournament?
Surely, it couldn't just be for Shrek Academy's honor?
Given the abilities of the other main team members, even without Zhou Sicheng, they could have easily taken the championship this year.
That could only mean one thing: the direct heir to the Sea God Pavilion Master had personally come for a reason far more significant than the tournament itself.
Gradually, Xu Jiujiu began to understand the deeper meaning behind his presence.
Shrek Academy had likely come here to invite the Star Luo Empire onto a grand, unknown path they planned to embark upon. Otherwise, why would Zhou Sicheng personally step forward?
At the same time, it seemed that Shrek Academy was deliberately testing him, to see if he possessed enough vision and courage to live up to his potential.
And this thirteen-year-old senior of hers had, while casually conversing with her imperial brother and Elder Xuan, precisely grasped the underlying intent of everything that was happening.
"As expected of the chosen successor of the Sea God Pavilion Master… not only unmatched in talent and strength but also possessing wisdom that surpasses his years," Xu Jiujiu thought with deep admiration.
Her mind drifted for a moment, recalling her own life at thirteen. What was she doing back then?
But as her thoughts shifted to the matter of a potential marriage alliance, her cheeks flushed faintly red, and a trace of embarrassment welled up within her.
After all, she was already eighteen—five years older than Zhou Sicheng. Though he carried himself with extraordinary maturity and poise far beyond his age, knowing his true age made her feel a little awkward, as if she were the "older woman taking advantage of a boy."
Sensing the atmosphere was perfect, Zhou Sicheng smiled lightly and said,
"Your Majesty, since you've made your decision, about the items I requested…"
Before he could finish, Xu Jiawei interrupted firmly, his tone regal and decisive:
"That soul bone and the hundred-thousand-year soul beast embryo will be delivered to you in a few days."
Zhou Sicheng's heart leapt with joy, and he quickly bowed gratefully.
"Your Majesty is truly magnanimous. I will, of course, provide items of equal value in exchange."
But Xu Jiawei simply waved his hand, laughing heartily.
"What you just showed us already more than covers the price. Consider these two items my personal gift to you. Also, if anything catches your eye at the auction, just let Jiujiu know."
Zhou Sicheng hadn't expected the Emperor to be so generous, but after a moment's thought, it wasn't all that surprising. A man with such vision and bearing was bound to make bold decisions like this.
After all, Zhou Sicheng genuinely intended to repay the favor one day.
Not one to feign unnecessary humility, Zhou Sicheng clasped his hands in salute and said respectfully,
"In that case, I sincerely thank Your Majesty for this grand gesture. When the day comes that I succeed, I shall repay this debt tenfold."
Xu Jiawei chuckled, saying,
"No need for empty pleasantries. Since we're on the same ship now, let me give you a word of advice: even with Shrek Academy's protection, a genius who hasn't yet grown strong is still just a future corpse in a grave. Don't let your talent make you arrogant."
Rather than being offended, Zhou Sicheng smiled and replied,
"Of course, I understand. I appreciate Your Majesty's guidance."
Xu Jiawei knew his words might be redundant, but with such high hopes for Zhou Sicheng, he couldn't help but nag a little. He didn't want his "investment" to be wasted.
With matters settled, Xu Jiawei instructed Xu Jiujiu to show Zhou Sicheng around Star Luo City, while he and Elder Xuan stayed behind to discuss further cooperation.
As Zhou Sicheng followed Xu Jiujiu out of the palace, his heart surged with excitement he could barely contain.
In the depths of his spiritual sea, Tianmeng's voice rang out excitedly,
"Sicheng, this Star Luo Emperor isn't bad at all! A soul bone and a hundred-thousand-year embryo, just like that! He's got guts, I'll give him that."
Then Tianmeng sighed in amazement,
"No wonder you humans live better than us soul beasts. People like this are terrifying—the way they seize opportunities is simply monstrous."
Zhou Sicheng chuckled.
"He is the ruler of a nation. If he ignored such a chance, that would be the real surprise."
On the side, the Ice Empress snorted teasingly,
"So, another fiancée, huh? Let's see how you explain this to your little lovers later."
Zhou Sicheng smiled wryly.
"I already said it's just a covert marriage pact. It's not time to make this public yet. Shrek still has to play its role as a neutral force."
At those words, Tianmeng became excited.
"I never thought Elder Mu would pave the way for you like this. Your ambition is to unite the entire continent, yet Shrek has always stayed neutral… and now they're changing sides for you!"
Zhou Sicheng replied calmly,
"It's not just because of me. Elder Mu likely sees hope in the new generation of Shrek, not only in me but in many other prodigies. My existence probably tipped the scale."
Tianmeng laughed slyly.
"Even if Elder Mu didn't change his stance, future-you wouldn't stop moving forward, right? Let's face it—it's because you're that good."
Then he grew more serious.
"I never knew you had this much courage. As expected of the one I chose. Reliable!"
While they chatted, Xu Jiujiu suddenly asked from the carriage,
"Senior, where would you like to go?"
After a moment of thought, Zhou Sicheng said,
"Take me back to the hotel. I need to maintain appearances and avoid drawing attention right now."
Understanding his meaning, Xu Jiujiu nodded softly.
"Alright."
As the carriage neared Star Emperor Hotel, Zhou Sicheng slipped out quietly in a secluded alley to avoid being seen stepping down from the princess' carriage, preventing any needless rumors.
On the way back, the two chatted casually, and though their words were few, Xu Jiujiu found herself increasingly intrigued by her mysterious "fiancé."
When Zhou Sicheng returned to the hotel, Ye Guyi and the others had already come back from the day's match.
Shrek's reserve team had easily defeated Changning Academy with overwhelming strength once again.
Seeing him, Ye Guyi immediately rushed into his room, plopping onto his bed with a grin.
"Well? What did Star Luo say?"
Zhou Sicheng's smile widened with joy.
"It went perfectly. The two treasures I had my eye on will be delivered to us in a few days."
Ye Guyi already knew what items he wanted, and while the embryo meant little to her—since she was still far from Rank 80—she understood it would become his sixth soul ring through his Book of Contracts martial soul.
But when she thought about the Ice Jade Scorpion soul bone, she glanced at him suspiciously.
"That soul bone… it's for Ling Luochen, isn't it?"
Zhou Sicheng instantly realized she was jealous and quickly explained,
"Didn't I already tell you? That soul bone can only be absorbed by an Ultimate Ice soul master. My cultivation doesn't need it, and the only one who might be able to use it is Ling Luochen."
Ye Guyi arched a brow.
"Her ice is strong, sure, but not yet at the level of Ultimate Ice. You're planning to help her break through? That's no small feat."
Zhou Sicheng smiled faintly.
"We won't know unless we try. If she succeeds, not only will her strength soar, but we'll gain a powerful ally. Isn't that a good thing?"
Ye Guyi rolled her eyes playfully.
"All this trouble just because someone can't keep his heart steady. You've barely been at the Academy, yet you're already surrounded by girls."
Zhou Sicheng gave an awkward laugh.
"Come on, that's not true…"
She sniffed the air and narrowed her eyes.
"Don't tell me that scent on you is from a man."
He raised his hands helplessly.
"I went to the royal palace, and of course, Princess Jiujiu was the one to receive me. There's nothing going on between us."
"Hmph." She snorted, folding her legs on his bed.
"Enough talking. Use my martial soul—let's cultivate!"
Zhou Sicheng grinned and climbed onto the bed without protest.
After defeating Zheng Tian Academy and today's opponent, Changning Academy, Shrek's team encountered no other threats in the next three matches.
They triumphed with dazzling skill and flawless teamwork, sweeping through two one-on-one elimination rounds and one team battle. With a perfect record of seven victories and zero losses, they easily secured first place in their group, advancing to the brutal top-16 elimination stage.
More impressively, they had achieved this entirely with their reserve team, showcasing Shrek Academy's unmatched ability to nurture powerful talents.
Cao Jinxuan, Beibei, and the other seven members gradually made names for themselves, their individual brilliance shining in every match.
The only team able to rival Shrek was the Sun Moon Imperial Soul Engineer Academy.
They too had fielded only their reserve lineup, winning every match in the round-robin stage and advancing first in their group.
Outside the battlefield, tension simmered between the two academies, both sides silently competing for dominance even before an official clash.
Judging by results alone, Shrek's reserve team held a slight edge.
But since they had yet to face each other directly, anticipation soared among the audience, eager for a future collision between these two titans—a showdown destined to shake the tournament to its core.
With other groups still finishing their matches, Shrek Academy was fortunate to receive a three-day rest period.
During this break, the grand Starlight Auction was held. But Zhou Sicheng didn't bother attending—after all, the two treasures he sought were already his.
When the Ice Jade Scorpion left-arm soul bone finally arrived in his hands, the Ice Empress' emotions roiled violently in his spiritual sea.
That bone had belonged to her kin, stirring countless memories and emotions within her heart. The sight of it was like seeing her tribe's lingering shadows from a bygone era, making her heart ache.
Yet soon, her attention shifted entirely to the other item—the mysterious hundred-thousand-year soul beast embryo sealed within the God-Sealing Platform.
The inexplicable sense of familiarity it radiated was like an invisible hand clutching her heart.
Her eyes fixed on it intently, confusion and unease filling her voice as she muttered,
"This soul beast embryo… why does it feel so familiar to me? Am I imagining things?"
Tianmeng chuckled mockingly from the side.
"Familiar? That's just because of its energy. Didn't you want to eat me for the same reason back then?"
The Ice Empress' fury flared instantly. She glared at Tianmeng, her tone laced with venom.
"Shut up!"
The murderous look in her eyes promised dire consequences if he spoke again.
Zhou Sicheng fought back a laugh and maintained a serious face.
"The God-Sealing Platform blocks all auras. It's probably just your imagination. Even Tianmeng's vast spiritual power can't sense what's inside—how could you?"
Though he said this outwardly, deep down, Zhou Sicheng marveled at the profound bond between the two sisters.
Even through the God-Sealing Platform, the Ice Empress could still faintly sense her best friend, the Snow Empress. What would her reaction be when she finally learned the truth?
Putting the matter aside, Zhou Sicheng carefully stored away both the platform and the soul bone, his movements calm and practiced.
Then he sat cross-legged, regulating his breathing, and slipped into his usual cultivation state, entering the half-plane of the undead to seek guidance from Elder Yi on necromancy.
With his greatest prize secured, all that remained was to reach Rank 60 as quickly as possible and seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
And with his current cultivation speed, once he returned to Shrek and gained the support of the Golden Ancient Tree, reaching Rank 60 from his current Rank 55 would take no more than a year.
****
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