After hearing Ning Fengzhi's words, Yang Xiong's expression became unreadable. On one hand, he was surprised that many of his secrets had been discovered; on the other hand, he was somewhat relieved, at least the immortal herbs he had obtained from the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well were still unknown to Ning Fengzhi.
The Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well was surrounded by the poison arrays left behind by Dugu Bo. Ordinary soul masters couldn't break through, and even Ning Fengzhi wouldn't have been able to send a Titled Douluo to follow him. That meant that, for now, everything within the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well remained a secret.
Ning Fengzhi noticed the changes in Yang Xiong's expression and assumed he had seen through Yang Xiong's little schemes.
"Xiao Xiong, your experience in the soul master world is still too shallow. It's far more brutal than you think. While our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect is known as one of the Upper Three Sects, we are not without enemies."
"The various sects and powers are deeply entangled. They even plant many spies among each other. For outstanding talents from rival factions, if they can't be won over, they'll often be secretly eliminated. Our sect could never feel at ease letting a disciple like you wander outside alone. Take your recent trip to the Sunset Forest, there were quite a few who wanted to act against you, but we intercepted them."
Yang Xiong quickly replied, "Thank you, Sect Master. I underestimated how cruel the soul master world could be."
Ning Fengzhi shook his head. "That's not your fault. You've read a lot and mastered considerable knowledge, but what's written in books and what happens in the real world are two very different things. As a high-level soul master, you'll need more than cultivation, you must also endure trials and face danger. That's one reason I want you to go study abroad with Rongrong."
"Though the environment in Soto City might be a little rough and less comfortable than our sect, the teaching resources there are decent. It should be beneficial to your growth."
Yang Xiong thought for a moment before responding, "Sect Master, I'm willing to go to Soto City. However, I do have a small request. I hope the Sect Master will allow it."
Ning Fengzhi was intrigued. "Speak freely. I already told you, you can treat me like an elder."
Yang Xiong said, "You likely already know that my martial soul is special. There are no successful precedents for it in the soul master world. I have my own ideas for cultivation, and even if I go to Soto City, I hope no one will interfere with or attempt to probe into my training. Soul masters all have their secrets, and in my case, it could relate to my future safety. Otherwise, I'll have no choice but to return early to the sect."
Ning Fengzhi nodded. "Naturally. Respecting another soul master's privacy is a basic rule of our world. If anyone tries to pry, just return at once."
Only then did Yang Xiong feel relieved. He wasn't concerned about those in the original story. He had his own path to walk, as long as no one interfered with his training.
After a pause, Ning Fengzhi added, "Xiao Xiong, there are two more things you should keep in mind."
"Officially, it will just be you and Rongrong going to Soto City. Once she starts school, she'll meet many new classmates and be exposed to new things. I don't want her getting too close to any boys."
Hearing this, Yang Xiong couldn't help but grumble inwardly. It sounded like Ning Fengzhi was just afraid some random punk would charm his precious daughter. Funny how cautious he was now, unlike in the original story, where she ended up getting stolen by a food-type soul master.
"Rest assured, Sect Master. I'll stay close to Miss Rongrong and make sure no reckless boys get too friendly."
Ning Fengzhi nodded with satisfaction. "Good. Also, Uncle Bone has been observing you in secret, especially after you started training in the 'Path of Defense.' He thinks highly of your potential. Once you graduate, I'll ask him to take you on as his disciple."
"You should know Uncle Bone's status in the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect. Having a Titled Douluo as your teacher would greatly boost your cultivation. You might even reach his level someday."
Yang Xiong was stunned. He had long suspected someone high up in the sect had been paying attention to him, especially based on the cultivation resources he received. But he hadn't expected it to be Bone Douluo.
In the world of Douluo, Titled Douluo stood at the pinnacle of the soul master hierarchy. Each one was a true powerhouse. The Heaven Dou royal family had suffered because they lacked one, and the Upper Three Sects remained dominant precisely because they each had a Titled Douluo.
"Thank you, Sect Master, for your kindness, and thanks to Senior Bone Douluo as well. I will train diligently and live up to the sect's expectations."
Ning Fengzhi smiled. "Xiao Xiong, you don't always need to be so cautious. The Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect may not be invincible, but we are not easily provoked. So what if you have a soul bone? I don't believe anyone would dare challenge us for it."
"Remember what I've told you, the sect is your home. As long as you never betray us, we will do our best to provide whatever resources you need, even the most rare soul rings and soul bones. And according to our rules, the sect does not covet your personal fortunes or inheritances."
Yang Xiong bowed. "Thank you, Sect Master. I will do my best to train and contribute to the sect."
"Everything at home will be arranged. Go prepare; you leave early tomorrow."
After their talk, Yang Xiong returned home.
But as soon as he walked through the door, the smile on his face vanished, replaced by a more serious expression.
Ning Fengzhi was far more formidable than he had imagined. The way he combined warnings with promises was masterful. If it were any other twelve-year-old, they'd probably have knelt in gratitude by now.
But Ning Fengzhi had underestimated him, especially the secrets he carried. If he knew Yang Xiong possessed enough immortal herbs to alter the entire balance of the Douluo Continent, would he still remain so composed?
Still, the depth and care of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect was something Yang Xiong couldn't deny, especially how much they invested in nurturing young talent.
And upon further thought, going to Shrek Academy did have an added advantage.
Given Yang Xiong's personality, he would likely clash with the original story's main cast. At that point, it would be interesting to see how Ning Fengzhi responded, whether the sect was truly worth his loyalty.
Yang Xiong briefly explained the sect's plans to his parents. Yang Lin and Sun Yu didn't dwell on it any further and accepted his decision.
If you want to read 40 advanced chapters, please subscribe to my : patreon.com/Moorowkeel