Listening to the peculiar method of harvesting and bonding, Xiao Wu's cheeks flushed as she reached out and lifted the Yearning Heartbroken Red rooted on the obsidian stone.
Circulating her soul power and stimulating her blood energy, she parted her cherry lips and spat a mouthful of fresh blood onto the petals.
Under the guidance of the Yearning Heartbroken Red's energy flow, in an instant, Chu Chengzhou's figure filled Xiao Wu's mind.
Their first meeting at Shrek Academy—though back then, he was just "Big Brother Chu," nothing more than a human cub in her eyes, the little brat that was Chu Chengzhou.
At the end of their first academic year, she had been invited to visit his home. She became the adopted granddaughter of his grandparents and his dry sister.
Over the years, every moment they spent together kept surfacing in Xiao Wu's heart.
Though there were no grand or dramatic events, everything felt plain and simple. But when, in the Rose Inn, Chu Chengzhou jokingly called her his "child bride," she didn't reject it—she even felt a hint of happiness. That's when she realized she had already unknowingly fallen for him.
As the blood fell onto the petals, the Yearning Heartbroken Red trembled gently, detaching from the obsidian stone and landing softly into a pair of delicate hands.
"How wonderful!"
Wiping the blood from the corner of her mouth, Xiao Wu revealed a faint smile, her eyes dreamily gazing at the enchanting flower in her hand.
Seeing the Yearning Heartbroken Red in Xiao Wu's possession, Chu Chengzhou's face softened into a loving smile. He stepped forward and gently pulled her into his arms.
Xiao Wu picking the Yearning Heartbroken Red signified something clear to him—he understood perfectly what it meant.
At this moment, Chu Chengzhou couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt. The little rabbit's heart was entirely devoted to him—how could he still flirt around? It was utterly inappropriate!
No, no! Xiao Wu was lively and outgoing, loved making friends, and enjoyed being the big sister type. Finding her a couple of "little sisters" would be justified!
"Brother~"
Looking up at Chu Chengzhou embracing her, Xiao Wu softly called out, pouting slightly.
Receiving her signal, Chu Chengzhou hesitated not a moment. Ignoring the two girls nearby, he leaned in and kissed her passionately.
Ning Rongrong: ". . ."
Zhu Zhuqing: ". . ."
Exchanging glances, Zhu Zhuqing sat down with the Daffodil Jade Flesh Bone in hand and began consuming it according to the method Chu Chengzhou had explained earlier.
"Hmph~ Playboy!"
Glaring fiercely at Chu Chengzhou who was kissing Xiao Wu, Ning Rongrong also started consuming the Beautiful Silk Tulip.
After a long while, their lips parted.
"Xiao Wu, eat the Yearning Heartbroken Red. Along with a significant boost in cultivation talent, it should increase your soul power by about ten levels."
Gently stroking Xiao Wu's rabbit ears, Chu Chengzhou said.
Though Xiao Wu had reached Level 44 Soul Ancestor at just thirteen, displaying a cultivation speed far surpassing geniuses with full innate soul power on the continent, purely speaking of cultivation potential, Xiao Wu was only equivalent to someone with full innate soul power.
The main reasons for her rapid soul power growth were due to her retraining and the fact that she wasn't practicing ordinary meditation techniques but rather the evolved version of common meditation known as the Nine Breaths Qi Absorption Technique.
As one of the finest immortal-grade herbs, though its effect on Xiao Wu wouldn't be as drastic as on someone who was originally a cultivation failure, the Yearning Heartbroken Red would undoubtedly still have considerable benefits.
Even excluding the enhancement in cultivation talent, the immense medicinal power of the immortal herb would gradually release during subsequent training, further increasing her soul power cultivation speed.
"Ten levels?"
Xiao Wu's eyes widened in disbelief.
Earlier, Chu Chengzhou had mentioned that consuming immortal herbs could increase soul power without side effects. She initially thought it would only be one or two levels, maybe three or four at most—but never imagined it could be ten?
Chu Chengzhou nodded: "More or less."
In the original story, Xiao Wu used the Yearning Heartbroken Red not for consumption but to revive her body. The exact extent of its benefits was uncertain. However, people varied, and so did the herbs. As a top-tier immortal herb, the Yearning Heartbroken Red was undoubtedly superior.
Even if it didn't immediately boost her soul power by ten levels, it would likely add eight or nine.
Currently at 44 levels, after consuming the Yearning Heartbroken Red and considering the additional soul power gained from her fifth soul ring—far exceeding optimal ratios—Xiao Wu's soul power should exceed the 54th level Soul King.
"Brother, didn't you say that once bonded, it would never wither? Can't we keep such a beautiful flower?"
Holding the flower of love, Xiao Wu hesitated.
"No, you must eat it!
If you don't consume it, it will be no different from ordinary flowers, merely prettier. There are plenty of beautiful flowers in the world. If you like, I'll buy you a whole cartload!"
Shaking his head, Chu Chengzhou spoke sternly.
This thing wouldn't appreciate in value by being kept. The sooner she consumed it, the sooner her cultivation talent would improve. Keeping it would only lead to depreciation. So why keep it?
Instantly, Xiao Wu's expression fell. Looking at the flower in her hand, she thought for a moment and said, "Brother, if my soul power level becomes too high after eating the Yearning Heartbroken Red, won't I be disqualified from participating in the Spirit Master Tournament?"
The tournament imposed no restrictions on participants' soul power levels—only age mattered, which Xiao Wu naturally qualified for—but she dared not participate.
She was already at Level 44; adding ten levels would make her a quasi-Soul King at Level 50, with an additional four hidden levels unmanifested due to lacking the soul ring. Once her fifth soul ring solidified and given another year before the tournament, she'd surely reach the six-ring Soul Emperor stage.
Such a high soul power level, even at a surface age of 19, would be too monstrous.
Without powerful backing, how could she expose herself to public scrutiny?
Even having a background might not suffice. After all, assassinating talented spirit masters from rival factions was commonplace.
With mastery over concealment techniques, Xiao Wu was confident she could disguise her transformed beast aura, soul power level, and soul rings—even Title Douluo couldn't see through it.
However, hiding her true strength was harder. As a Soul Emperor masquerading as a Soul King, her excessive spirit energy quality, overly potent soul skills, and heightened reaction speed—
A single misstep could reveal anomalies to discerning experts, arousing curiosity.
Too many variables existed. Upon advancing to the Soul Emperor stage, Xiao Wu wouldn't dare participate in the Spirit Master Tournament.
But the Spirit Master Tournament was a grand event in the spirit master world. How could she, Xiao Wu, miss such a lively occasion?
Hearing this, Chu Chengzhou fell into deep thought.
After a moment, he asked, "Do you really want to participate in the Spirit Master Tournament that badly?"
"Mm-hmm! Both Dean Flender and Dean Erlong have high hopes for me. It wouldn't be right to disappoint them."
Nodding, Xiao Wu pretended to look troubled.
"In that case, temporarily refrain from consuming the Yearning Heartbroken Red. Wait until after the tournament to take it."
Chu Chengzhou proposed a compromise.
A little over a year wouldn't make much difference.
The Spirit Master Tournament was still a year away, including preliminary and advancement rounds before the finals. Given Xiao Wu's rapid cultivation speed, even without the Yearning Heartbroken Red, she'd likely reach the five-ring Soul King stage by the finals.
At that time, being a Soul King at the apparent age of 19 wouldn't seem unreasonable.
After all, Hu Liena of the Spirit Hall's Golden Generation reportedly became a Soul King at 20.
What if her real age was exposed?
As long as her identity as a transformed spirit beast remained hidden and Bibi Dong didn't know about her killing Xiao Wu's mother, with no visible enmity, the Spirit Hall wouldn't forcibly detain contestants publicly. Underhanded methods always had to remain covert.
In the forest simulation training field, Chu Chengzhou and Xiao Wu quietly closed their eyes to cultivate divine arts while guarding those who consumed immortal herbs.
By now, as the medicinal effects took hold, noticeable changes occurred in Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing.
After consuming the Daffodil Jade Flesh Bone, Zhu Zhuqing's entire body emanated a faint jade color. As the medicine continued to release its effects, she transitioned from sitting cross-legged to standing upright, hands resting on her chest, silently absorbing the medicinal power.
Ning Rongrong's transformation was spectacular. A seven-colored halo surrounded the floating Seven-Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda before her. Amidst the shimmering of three soul rings, she was enveloped in a dense golden glow.
This golden light radiated from Ning Rongrong, carrying a rich fragrance of tulips. Amidst the flowing brilliance, she resembled a celestial maiden descending from heaven.
Each surge of golden light made Ning Rongrong's Seven-Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda appear more dazzling and radiant.
Time passed minute by minute, and soon three hours had elapsed.
Under the setting sun, Ning Rongrong opened her eyes after assimilating the Beautiful Silk Tulip's medicinal power.
"Eh? I'm at level 30?"
Feeling the surging soul power within, Ning Rongrong couldn't help but exclaim in astonishment.
Moreover, it seemed it wasn't just a simple matter of reaching level 30 as a quasi-Soul Elder. She could sense a substantial amount of soul power hidden within her body, concealed due to the lack of a third soul ring.
"Take a look at your pagoda."
Just as Ning Rongrong marveled, Chu Chengzhou's voice rang out.
Upon hearing this, Ning Rongrong paused, then looked at the pagoda in her right hand.
"One, two, three… eight, nine? How did it… turn into nine layers?"
Seeing her familiar Seven-Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda transform into a nine-layer, nine-colored structure, Ning Rongrong felt a rush of excitement, her voice trembling.
Her Seven-Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda transformed into nine layers—what did this mean?
It meant her martial soul was no longer the Seven-Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda but the legendary Nine-Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda, the lifelong goal her father Ning Fengzhi had pursued!
"How's that, Rongrong? Feeling the urge to give yourself to me?"
Seeing Ning Rongrong trembling all over, Chu Chengzhou transmitted a message.
Instantly, Ning Rongrong's excited heart calmed down. She glared fiercely at Chu Chengzhou.
Before receiving the transmission, she indeed had such an impulse—even if no one was around, she might have rushed over to express her love.
But now, this despicable man had taken her virtue, albeit only in an illusion—it still counted as losing half her innocence. Consider it his payment for... uh, consider it his apology!
Still, despite her thoughts, Ning Rongrong couldn't suppress her affection, looking at Chu Chengzhou with a spring-like glow on her face.
This despicable man had excellent talent, was handsome, and helped break the limitations of her martial soul, giving her a brighter future.
Ah~. So troublesome!
"Sigh~ If only Xiao Wu weren't here!"
Looking at Chu Chengzhou with a smile, Ning Rongrong lamented inwardly.
If Xiao Wu weren't around, she'd definitely bring Chu Chengzhou home to meet her father.
Unfortunately, she was the latecomer. If her father and two grandfathers found out about them, she might be fine, but this despicable man would surely get his legs broken?
Perhaps, only when this despicable man became a powerhouse on the continent would her father and grandfathers agree to let her be with him?
"Hey? Rongrong, your Seven-Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda martial soul has evolved, but why do you look somewhat unhappy?"
Seeing her troubled friend, Xiao Wu couldn't help but ask.
Xiao Wu had some understanding of the Seven-Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda. She knew that spirit masters with this martial soul, no matter how good their cultivation talent, would be restricted to a maximum level of 79 as a Soul Sage.
But now, her friend's martial soul had transformed from seven-layered, seven-colored to nine-layered, nine-colored, removing the level cap. Why was she reacting this way?
Shouldn't she be ecstatic?
"No, no, I'm happy about the martial soul evolution. I just thought of something."
Coming to her senses, Ning Rongrong quickly waved her hand.
This despicable man had such great talent; he would become a powerhouse on the continent sooner or later. She just needed to wait patiently.
"Meow—"
Suddenly, a soft cat's meow sounded.
The trio turned to see Zhu Zhuqing open her eyes, appearing as if waking from a deep sleep, her beautiful eyes darting around, a bit confused.
"Zhuqing, how do you feel?"
Xiao Wu came forward and asked.
"It's good. My soul power has reached level 30, and I feel that after adding the third soul ring, my level will certainly exceed 31. Thank you, Senior Chu!"
After assessing herself, Zhu Zhuqing smiled.
Despite her normally cold demeanor, she couldn't help but smile.
"You're welcome. We're good friends, and you're Xiao Wu's good sister!"
Waving his hand, Chu Chengzhou grinned.
To Xiao Wu and Zhu Zhuqing, this statement was harmless. But to Ning Rongrong, the meaning went beyond the surface.
Good friends? Women friends!
Xiao Wu's good sister? Xiao Wu's good younger sister!
That despicable playboy Chu Chengzhou was truly despicable! Not only was he eating from the bowl while eyeing the pot, but he was also eyeing others' pots—it was simply unforgivable!
Er, am I the second wife?
Never mind, it's better to pretend I don't know.
Having a third wife to share the pressure from the first wife—and since we're all good sisters—it doesn't sound too bad.
"Well, it's getting late. Let's go have dinner!
Rongrong, Zhuqing, remember to consolidate your soul power in the coming days. Although immortal herbs have no side effects, the sudden surge in soul power still needs proper adaptation."
Chu Chengzhou advised the two.
"Mm-hmm!"
In the academy cafeteria, Chu Chengzhou met Ma Hongjun and Oscar, who were absent at noon.
He gave them the Land Dragon Golden Melon and the Origin Energy Immortal Grass, clearly explaining the consumption method before letting them return to consume them on their own.
Guarding for the girls was necessary, but Chu Chengzhou had no intention of doing so for Ma Hongjun and Oscar. Moreover, there was likely a small event tonight, and he didn't want to miss it.
As night fell, Chu Chengzhou was meditating in his dorm room.
Knock, knock, knock—
Suddenly, a knock sounded.
"Tsk~ Here comes the small event!"
Chu Chengzhou got up and opened the door.
As expected, Ning Rongrong stood outside.
One stalk of Beautiful Silk Tulip had broken the limitations of the Seven-Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda martial soul, fulfilling a long-held wish. How could she not celebrate with joy tonight?
That night, within the illusion, Chu Chengzhou recalled some strange knowledge from his previous life and applied it, unlocking several new positions.
Early the next morning.
As dawn broke, Chu Chengzhou was about to begin his daily morning meditation when a knock and Ma Hongjun's excited loud voice came from outside: "Big Brother Chu, hurry and open the door! Little Ao and I are here!"
"Villagers, hurry and open the gate! The lords have arrived!"
For some reason, this sentence popped into Chu Chengzhou's mind.
"Who's knocking so early in the morning?"
Shaking his head and pushing aside random thoughts, Chu Chengzhou reluctantly got up and opened the door.
"Eh? Fatty, did your old hen evolve?"
Looking at Ma Hongjun, who had slimmed down significantly and looked much more pleasant compared to before, Chu Chengzhou couldn't help but ask in surprise, despite having anticipated it somewhat.
As for their current soul power levels, Chu Chengzhou saw through them instantly.
The efficacy of immortal herbs was undoubtedly powerful, even immature ones.
Originally at Levels 28 and 32 respectively, after consuming the Land Dragon Golden Melon and the Origin Energy Immortal Grass, Oscar directly gained five levels, advancing to level 37.
As for Ma Hongjun, similar to Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing, lacking the third soul ring, his manifested soul power level was only at level 30 as a quasi-Soul Elder. The exact amount was unclear to Chu Chengzhou.
However, it was certain that Ma Hongjun's increase in soul power was smaller than Oscar's.
Because the primary effect of the Origin Energy Immortal Grass was to boost a spirit master's soul power. In terms of boosting soul power, perhaps only the Yearning Heartbroken Red could compare.
If this Origin Energy Immortal Grass had been mature, Oscar directly reaching level 40 wouldn't have been impossible.
Of course, discussing gains, Ma Hongjun's harvest was definitely greater than Oscar's.
His body had slimmed down, indicating that his problem with evil fire was likely resolved.
"Big Brother Chu, you're like my second parent!"
With the door open, Ma Hongjun immediately stepped forward, tightly gripping Chu Chengzhou's hand, expressing gratitude.
"… Get lost, I don't have such a perverted son! By the way, show me your martial soul."
Pulling his arm back, Chu Chengzhou said with disdain.
Ma Hongjun didn't mind, chuckling dryly. His soul power surged, releasing his martial soul.
"Chrip!"
A thick phoenix cry sounded as behind Ma Hongjun appeared a black phoenix figure engulfed in orange flames.
Its appearance resembled the Fire Phoenix summoned spirit, Xiao Hong.
But Chu Chengzhou clearly sensed that Ma Hongjun's orange-flamed black phoenix martial soul emitted strong earth elemental fluctuations.
Evidently, after consuming the Land Dragon Golden Melon, Ma Hongjun's mutated old hen martial soul had evolved into a dual-element phoenix of fire and earth.
"Not bad. The old chicken has become a phoenix. Fatty, your evil fire is gone, right?"
Satisfied, Chu Chengzhou nodded and asked.
"Of course! My previous evil fire was due to my martial soul mutation. Now that my martial soul has evolved, the evil fire naturally disappeared, and my cultivation speed has improved considerably!"
Puffing out his chest, Ma Hongjun proudly declared.
"Just a mutated phoenix? Pfft!
Chu Chengzhou rolled his eyes.
"Big Brother Chu, don't belittle a mutated phoenix. My Magma Fire Phoenix is a real phoenix!"
Ma Hongjun was somewhat proud.
The so-called Magma Fire Phoenix was the new name Ma Hongjun gave his evolved martial soul.
Previously, his martial soul was called a phoenix, but in reality, it was just a chicken mutating toward a phoenix, with only a few phoenix traits. Though he verbally resisted, he internally acknowledged it.
But now, the past was history. Chickens were a thing of the past. His current martial soul was a top-tier flying beast-type martial soul: the Magma Fire Phoenix!
Although his Magma Fire Phoenix wasn't a pure fire phoenix, in terms of rank, it was on par, differing only in attributes.
"Magma Fire Phoenix? Tsk~ Oscar, what about you?"
Clicking his tongue, Chu Chengzhou looked at Oscar.
"My martial soul hasn't changed, but I've tested it—my soul power cultivation speed has increased significantly."
Smiling with his peach blossom eyes, Oscar replied.
His good brother Ma Hongjun's martial soul had evolved, resolving the issue of evil fire, and his own gains were substantial. Not only had his soul power increased by five levels, saving nearly two years of cultivation time, but his cultivation speed had also greatly improved.
"Very good! Oscar, keep it up. I hope you can advance to the Soul Ancestor stage before the Spirit Master Tournament."
Chu Chengzhou patted Oscar's shoulder with satisfaction.
Currently at Level 37, Oscar was only three levels away from level 40. Within a year, with the enhanced cultivation talent from consuming the Origin Energy Immortal Grass and the gradual release of the herb's medicinal power, he would surely reach the four-ring Soul Ancestor stage.
As for Ma Hongjun, it was unlikely he could advance to the four-ring Soul Elder stage before the tournament.
After all, the Land Dragon Golden Melon was immature, and much of its medicinal power was used for martial soul evolution. Consequently, his soul power increase wouldn't be significant, and even with improved cultivation talent, time might still be insufficient.
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