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#106
Chapter 106 Zhu Zhuqing Leaves Shrek Academy
The next day, early morning.
Inside the Rose Hotel restaurant, morning light streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows onto the long table.
The entire Royal Fighting Team sat around a table for a meal, with Chu Xinghe in the middle, flanked by Dugu Yan and Ye Lingling on either side.
"Try this." Dugu Yan placed a piece of steak on Chu Xinghe's plate, her purple hair falling over her shoulders. "I specifically asked the chef to cook it a little tender."
Ye Lingling lowered her head, sipped her porridge, and her ear tips were bright red.
She quietly pushed a dish of honey in front of Chu Xinghe; it was the flavor she remembered he liked.
Yun Wuyai mumbled indistinctly as he munched on his bread, "The three of you are acting strangely today..."
He squinted. "Captain, why do you have scratches on the back of your neck?"
Yu Feng suddenly widened his eyes and slammed his hand on the table: "I get it! You wouldn't—"
Oslo quickly covered his mouth: "Idiot!"
He lowered his voice, "Didn't you see the murderous intent in Yanzi's eyes? Do you want to be poisoned?"
Graphite scratched his head sheepishly: "What's going on?"
With his mouth full of bacon, Shi Mo mumbled, "Eat your food and don't ask any more questions."
Yu Tianheng coldly put down his knife and fork, the metallic clinking sound unusually crisp: "Boring."
His sharp gaze swept over the three of them, but paused slightly when he saw Ye Lingling's blushing face, then he snorted coldly and turned his face away.
Ning Rongrong rested her chin on her hand, her glassy eyes darting around: "Brother Xinghe, did you sleep well last night?"
She asked meaningfully, a sly smile playing on her lips.
Chu Xinghe took a sip of coffee without changing his expression: "Very good, thank you for your concern."
"Really?" Ning Rongrong blinked. "Then why does Senior Sister Ye look so tired?"
Upon hearing this, Ye Lingling nearly knocked over her bowl of porridge, burying her entire face in it.
Dugu Yan smiled and put a piece of cake on Ning Rongrong's plate: "Little Rongrong, eat more so you can grow up."
As she spoke, she deliberately glanced at Ning Rongrong's flat chest.
Zhao Tiezhu suddenly interjected, "I think the captain looks especially good today!"
His hearty laughter broke the awkward atmosphere. "Has your cultivation made another breakthrough?"
Yun Wuyai rolled his eyes: "What do you know, you blockhead... Ouch!"
He was stomped hard under the table by Yu Feng.
Qin Ming coughed lightly and intervened at the opportune moment: "Has everyone eaten? We'll meet at the Soul Arena in an hour."
His sharp gaze swept over the crowd. "Today we're facing Soto City's ace team, so everyone be on your toes."
Everyone responded, and the restaurant returned to its lively atmosphere.
But everyone noticed that the way Chu Xinghe exchanged glances with the two girls was more intimate than usual, a kind of inexplicable affection.
Yu Tianheng was the first to get up and leave his seat, his back looking somewhat stiff.
Ning Rongrong looked at the three of them thoughtfully, her eyes sparkling with gossip.
...
at the same time.
Inside the dean's office at Shrek Academy, Zhu Zhuqing stood upright before Flander, her dark eyes revealing an unwavering determination.
"Dean, I want to leave Shrek Academy." Her voice was cold and decisive.
Flander pushed up his glasses and stood up from his office chair in surprise: "Why make this decision all of a sudden? This place can provide you with the best training and resources."
The office door was flung open, and Yu Xiaogang strode in with a grim face: "Nonsense!"
His voice was stern and rigid: "Your talent needs my theoretical guidance. Leaving without permission will only delay your future."
Zhu Zhuqing turned her gaze to Yu Xiaogang, a cold smile appearing on her lips: "Your theory?"
She said, word by word, "I know Chu Xinghe. He was already a Soul Master when he was twelve years old. And your prized disciple, Tang San, who has innate full soul power, is now far behind."
Yu Xiaogang's face instantly turned ashen, his fingers clenching involuntarily: "What do you know! That's him..."
"Enough," Zhu Zhuqing interrupted him. "I've seen enough in these three months. Dai Mubai's indulgence, Xiao Wu's jealousy, Tang San's favoritism, and your theoretical nonsense."
Her voice grew colder and colder, "This is not the path of cultivation I want."
The office door was violently flung open again, and Dai Mubai stormed in angrily: "Zhu Zhuqing!"
His sinister double pupils burned with rage. "You are my fiancée, you are not allowed to go anywhere!"
Zhu Zhuqing quickly took a step back, distancing herself from him: "This is just a family arrangement."
Her voice was like ice, "I have never acknowledged this engagement."
Dai Mubai's face twisted slightly: "You think that Chu Xinghe would even look at you?"
He scoffed, "He's never short of women."
"This has nothing to do with Chu Xinghe." Zhu Zhuqing straightened her back. "I just want to make a choice for myself."
Flander tried to smooth things over: "Calm down, everyone. Zhuqing, think it over again..."
My decision will not change.
Zhu Zhuqing walked towards the door, taking one last look at the three people inside before leaving. Her voice was calm yet firm: "Thank you for your guidance during this time, but it's time for me to go my own way."
The office fell into a deathly silence, broken only by Dai Mubai's heavy breathing and the sound of Yu Xiaogang crushing a teacup.
The next second, Dai Mubai rushed out and caught up with Zhu Zhuqing outside. He grabbed her wrist, his knuckles turning white from the force, his voice filled with suppressed anger: "Want to leave? Do you think this is a place you can come and go as you please?"
Zhu Zhuqing's figure flashed, and the speed of the Netherworld Cat made her retreat three steps like a ghost.
She stared coldly at Dai Mubai: "I am not your possession."
Just as Flander was about to step forward, Yu Xiaogang reached out and stopped him: "Flander, this is a matter between husband and wife."
He said calmly, "It's not appropriate for outsiders like us to interfere."
"Husband and wife?" Zhu Zhuqing scoffed, a hint of mockery flashing in her dark eyes. "Dai Mubai, ask yourself honestly, have you ever fulfilled your responsibilities as a fiancé for even a single day?"
Dai Mubai's face was terribly grim: "Responsibility?"
He gritted his teeth and said, "The Zhu family sent you here for a marriage alliance, so you're mine now! Tang San!"
Dai Mubai suddenly turned around and shouted, "Stop her!"
Tang San stood still, his brows furrowed.
He struggled internally: Boss Dai had treated me well, yet he went and forced himself on a woman like this. The Tang Clan's usual teachings had said that a gentleman should treat others with courtesy and not bully the weak.
"If Third Brother won't do it, I will!" Xiao Wu shouted, her scorpion braid drawing an arc in the air.
She was secretly delighted: Finally, she had a chance to teach this arrogant woman a lesson!
Upon seeing this, Ma Hongjun immediately unleashed a Phoenix Fire Line, forming a wall of fire to Zhu Zhuqing's left.
He grinned and said, "Boss Dai, I've got your back!"
Ma Hongjun thought to himself: Anyway, this woman is usually so cold, it's good to teach her a lesson.
Dai Mubai's White Tiger Martial Soul had already possessed him, and three spirit rings shone beneath his feet.
He grinned maliciously as he approached: "Now, do you still want to run away?"
Zhu Zhuqing looked around. Xiao Wu blocked her right retreat, Ma Hongjun's line of fire blocked her left, and Dai Mubai was closing in from the front.
She took a deep breath, and the phantom of the Netherworld Cat appeared and disappeared behind her.
"Dai Mubai," she said coldly, "you disgust me."
These words pierced Dai Mubai's heart like a knife.
"You bastard!" In a fit of rage, Dai Mubai activated his first spirit ring, "White Tiger Blazing Light Wave!"
Zhu Zhuqing was prepared and dodged the attack with a quick movement.
But Xiao Wu seized the opportunity and struck her lower body with a backbend.
Zhu Zhuqing hastily dodged, but was still grazed on the arm, and immediately felt a burning pain.
"Is that all you've got?" Xiao Wu raised her chin smugly. "I thought you were much more capable."
Ma Hongjun spewed flames again, blocking Zhu Zhuqing's escape route: "Boss Dai, I'll stop her for you!"
As a friend of Dai Mubai, Ma Hongjun immediately stood up and supported Dai Mubai.
Dai Mubai approached step by step, his eyes filled with twisted pleasure: "Wait until I take you back, then let's see how arrogant you can be!"
Zhu Zhuqing had her back against a large tree, with nowhere left to retreat.
She clenched her fists so tightly that her nails dug deep into her palms.
Is this how it ends?
No, absolutely not!
She would rather die in battle than be captured and taken back by Dai Mubai.
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#107
Chapter 107 Chu Xinghe defeats the Shrek team
Just as Zhu Zhuqing was preparing to fight to the death, a dark shadow fell from the sky and crashed heavily onto the open ground between the two sides, kicking up a cloud of dust.
With a loud "boom," the powerful shockwave forced Dai Mubai and the other two back several steps.
As the dust settled, Chu Xinghe's tall figure appeared, with four spirit rings—yellow, yellow, purple, and black—slowly rotating beneath his feet.
When that jet-black, ten-thousand-year-old soul ring appeared, the entire battlefield instantly fell into deathly silence.
Tang San's pupils suddenly contracted, his face filled with shock.
"A fourth spirit ring that's been around for ten thousand years..." he murmured to himself, his voice filled with disbelief.
As Yu Xiaogang's disciple, he understood better than anyone what this meant, as it completely contradicted Yu Xiaogang's theory of the limits of spirit rings.
Standing at a distance, Yu Xiaogang's face turned deathly pale, and his lips trembled slightly: "Impossible..."
His voice was dry and hoarse, "This violates all the theories of Soul Masters..."
Those eyes, which were always full of confidence, were now filled with shock and confusion.
Dai Mubai got up from the ground, his anger replaced by shock: "What a joke, how could this kid possibly have a fourth soul ring that's ten thousand years old?"
Xiao Wu and Ma Hongjun stood frozen in place, even forgetting to continue their attack.
Xiao Wu's scorpion braid unconsciously wrapped around her fingers, and Ma Hongjun's mouth was so wide open that it could almost fit an egg.
"Three men bullying one girl." Chu Xinghe sneered, the light of his ten-thousand-year spirit ring reflecting on his cold face. "Is this all Shrek Academy is capable of?"
Dai Mubai was the first to come to his senses, his anger intensifying: "Who do you think you are!"
He roared and activated the White Tiger Vajra Transformation, his muscles bulging as he charged straight at the enemy.
Chu Xinghe stood still, without even releasing his martial spirit.
The instant Dai Mubai lunged at him, he unleashed a powerful right punch, the sheer force creating a whooshing sound.
With a muffled thud, Dai Mubai flew backward at an even faster speed than when he arrived, crashing into a tree as thick as a bowl before coming to a stop.
A pink light flashed in Xiao Wu's eyes, and she instantly appeared behind Chu Xinghe, her long legs aimed straight for his back.
As if he had eyes in the back of his head, Chu Xinghe accurately grabbed her ankle with his backhand and swung her away.
Xiao Wu screamed and flew toward Ma Hongjun, who was about to spew flames, and the two collided.
Yu Xiaogang stared intently at the spirit ring beneath Chu Xinghe's feet, his fingers unconsciously digging into his palm.
The theories he had studied throughout his life seemed so pale and powerless in the face of this young man.
"Shall we continue?" Chu Xinghe looked around at everyone, his voice eerily calm.
His gaze finally fell on Zhu Zhuqing, and his cold expression softened instantly: "Are you alright?"
Zhu Zhuqing stared blankly at the boy who had fallen from the sky, speechless for a moment.
She never expected that he would appear in her most desperate moment.
"Blue-silver entanglement!"
Tang San finally made his move. Countless Blue Silver Grasses sprouted wildly from the ground, and at the same time, he flipped his wrist, sending dozens of hidden weapons flying out from the Twenty-Four Bridges Under the Moonlight.
His eyes were calm and sharp, but his mind was calculating rapidly: Chu Xinghe's fourth spirit ring was actually ten thousand years old, he had to defeat him in one blow!
"Third Soul Skill, Spider Web Binding!"
The dense blue silver grass intertwined in the air, forming a net that enveloped Chu Xinghe.
Tang San's lips curled up slightly. He had practiced this move hundreds of times, and it was even more effective when used in conjunction with hidden weapons.
"Hey Boss Dai, catch!" Oscar, hiding nearby, was quickly making a recovery sausage. "I've got a big sausage!"
A hint of disdain flashed in Chu Xinghe's eyes, and then he stomped his right foot hard on the ground.
"boom!"
The blazing orange-red flames shot into the sky like a volcanic eruption!
His body twisted and expanded in the light, and fine dragon scales instantly covered his entire body, each scale gleaming with a cold metallic luster, while his five fingers transformed into ferocious claws.
"Second Soul Skill, Small Flame!"
A crimson fireball flew from his palm, swelling in the wind.
The moment the fireball made contact with the spider web, the Blue Silver Grass turned to ashes at a speed visible to the naked eye.
Those concealed weapons, crafted from fine steel, melted into molten iron at high temperatures, dripping onto the ground with a hissing sound.
"How is this possible..." Tang San's eyes widened, his heart filled with shock.
His prized hidden weapon was so easily neutralized.
Zhu Zhuqing clenched her fist, and the Netherworld Cat's claws were already extended.
Just as she was about to step forward, a warm, large hand pressed down on her shoulder.
"Just watch from the sidelines," Chu Xinghe said without turning his head, his voice deep and magnetic. "Watch how your man teaches these good-for-nothings a lesson."
These words sent a shiver down Zhu Zhuqing's spine.
She never imagined that this boy she admired would so openly declare his ownership.
Zhu Zhuqing's cheeks instantly flushed, and her heart pounded so hard it felt like it was about to burst out of her chest.
Although she and Dai Mubai were engaged, she felt a flutter in her heart that she had never experienced before.
"You slut!" Dai Mubai's eyes were bloodshot, and veins bulged on his forehead. "How dare you sleep with other men while I'm on your back!"
The rage in his heart almost consumed him. He unleashed the full power of the White Tiger Vajra Transformation, his muscles swelling so much they nearly burst through his clothes.
Chu Xinghe sneered, without even using his soul skill.
The moment Dai Mubai lunged forward, his right fist struck first, landing heavily on the opponent's abdomen.
"Bang!"
Dai Mubai flew backward like a tattered sack, crashing into two large trees before coming to a stop.
He curled up on the ground, retching painfully, completely incapacitated.
Upon seeing this, Xiao Wu's eyes shone brightly: "Chu Xinghe, how dare you hurt my Shrek Academy student!"
She teleported behind Chu Xinghe, her long legs aimed straight for his back.
As if he had eyes in the back of his head, Chu Xinghe accurately grabbed her ankle with his backhand and swung her away.
Xiao Wu screamed and flew toward Ma Hongjun, who was about to spew flames, and the two of them fell into a messy heap.
The battle ended completely five minutes later.
Dai Mubai lay sprawled on the ground, panting, his face bruised and swollen. Xiao Wu leaned against a tree, her soul power exhausted. Tang San's hidden weapon pouch was empty.
Chu Xinghe deliberately restrained his power because he keenly sensed that there seemed to be a powerful aura watching from the shadows, which was very likely Tang Hao.
"Is that all you've got?" Chu Xinghe looked down at Tang San, his tone full of sarcasm. "Even the master's top disciple is nothing more than this. It seems that those so-called theories are nothing but empty talk."
These words pierced Tang San's heart like a sharp knife.
He clenched his teeth so hard that his nails dug deep into his palms.
He had always been proud of being a disciple of a master, but now…
Chu Xinghe turned around, took Zhu Zhuqing's hand, and announced in a loud voice: "Dai Mubai, your engagement with Zhu Zhuqing is hereby nullified."
He looked around and said, "If you're not satisfied, come find me at the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy anytime."
Dai Mubai struggled to get up, but was intimidated by Chu Xinghe's cold gaze.
Looking at the man who had once driven her to despair, now in such a wretched state, and then at the young man beside her who could still hold his own against a crowd with ease, a part of Zhu Zhuqing's heart quietly melted.
She gently grasped Chu Xinghe's hand in return, taking the initiative to approach the boy who had saved her for the first time.
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#108
Chapter 108 New Little Sisters
Chu Xinghe, holding Zhu Zhuqing's hand, was about to step out of the gates of Shrek Academy.
Flander suddenly stepped into the middle of the road, his eyes behind his glasses flashing with a sharp light.
"Halt!" Flander shouted sternly. "Shrek Academy is not a place you can come and go as you please!"
A faint, sweet, fishy smell suddenly filled the air, and a turquoise, poisonous fog silently enveloped the surroundings.
Dugu Bo's figure appeared beside Chu Xinghe like a ghost, with nine soul rings slowly rotating around him.
"Oh? What about adding me?" Dugu Bo's aged voice carried a playful smile, yet it sent a chill down the spines of everyone present.
Flander's face turned deathly pale instantly, and fine beads of sweat appeared on his forehead.
He recognized the Poison Douluo, who was famous throughout the Soul Master world, and knew that he was no match for him.
"Your Majesty, Azure Phosphorus…" Flander's voice trembled slightly, and he unconsciously took two steps back.
Chu Xinghe looked calmly at Flander, a cold smile playing on his lips: "Dean Flander, there's something I forgot to tell you."
His voice suddenly turned icy cold, "My teacher is Zhan Tiankuang. I will avenge you and Zhao Wuji for stealing my teacher's sixth spirit ring back then."
Yang Jian, standing at the back of the crowd, witnessed all of this, and the last glimmer of light in his eyes went out.
He watched as his revered dean cowered before the strong, and saw how Shrek Academy's motto, "Those who dare not cause trouble are mediocre," was so easily shattered in the face of true strength.
"This is what they call Monster Academy..." Yang Jian muttered to himself, his voice filled with disappointment.
While everyone's attention was focused on Chu Xinghe and Dugu Bo, he quietly retreated, turned around and disappeared into the woods without alerting anyone.
Dai Mubai clutched his injured chest, his eyes burning with resentful rage: "Zhu Zhuqing! You'll regret this!"
Tang San supported Xiao Wu, his face ashen.
He stared intently at the ten-thousand-year soul ring beneath Chu Xinghe's feet, his fingernails digging deeply into his palms.
This existence, which shattered the teacher's theory, made him feel unprecedentedly frustrated.
Xiao Wu leaned weakly on Tang San's shoulder, her eyes filled with resentment: "Third Brother, we must..."
"Enough!" Flander suddenly interrupted sharply. He took a deep breath, suppressed his anger, and stepped aside. "Shrek will remember what happened today."
Dugu Bo gave a soft snort, and the poisonous mist gradually dissipated.
Chu Xinghe glanced at the Shrek Academy members one last time, then took Zhu Zhuqing's hand and strode away.
Behind them, only Dai Mubai, Tang San, Xiao Wu, Ma Hongjun, and Oscar remained, standing alone in place.
Oscar watched the departing figure and muttered to himself, "Now we can't even get seven people together."
Ma Hongjun wiped the cold sweat from his forehead: "That old poisoner is too terrifying."
Flander stood there, his fists clenched so tightly they cracked.
He knew that from this day forward, Shrek Academy would forever remember this shameful day.
...
Chu Xinghe held Zhu Zhuqing's hand as they walked along a path on the outskirts of Soto City, with Dugu Bo following at a distance.
Zhu Zhuqing felt the warmth from her palm, and her heart beat much faster than usual.
"Why did you help me?" she asked softly, her voice trembling slightly.
Chu Xinghe turned to look at her, his gaze gentle: "Because you deserve a better future. The main reason I said that was to completely dissolve your engagement with Dai Mubai."
He paused for a moment, then said, "Actually, it was Sister Yan Yan who suggested that I come to see you this time."
Zhu Zhuqing's eyes widened in surprise: "Dugu Yan sent you."
"That's right." Chu Xinghe released her hand. "She knows I have feelings for you, and she's also aware of your situation at Shrek Academy."
As her palms suddenly lost their warmth, Zhu Zhuqing felt a wave of disappointment wash over her.
She lowered her head, her long black hair hanging down on both sides of her face.
Chu Xinghe stopped and looked at her earnestly: "If I said I really wanted you to be my woman, would you be willing?"
Zhu Zhuqing felt like her heart was about to jump out of her chest.
She thought of Dugu Yan and Ye Lingling, and her voice became even softer: "What about them..."
"Hahaha." Dugu Bo suddenly laughed and walked over. "I knew it! This kid would definitely take you as his concubine."
Chu Xinghe glared at him angrily: "Grandpa!"
Dugu Bo glared back indifferently: "Yanyan and Lingling already knew. Those two girls even prepared gifts, saying they were for their new sisters."
Zhu Zhuqing's face instantly turned red. She hadn't expected that Dugu Yan and Ye Lingling would not only know the situation but also be so considerate. This realization allowed her tense body to relax.
"I do." She mustered her courage, looked up, and stared directly into Chu Xinghe's eyes. "I want to see them."
Chu Xinghe smiled gently: "They will definitely like you."
Dugu Bo nodded in satisfaction and deliberately quickened his pace to walk ahead.
Zhu Zhuqing took Chu Xinghe's hand, the two smiled at each other, and walked towards Tiandou City.
...
Soto.
Inside the lobby of the Rose Hotel, Chu Xinghe held Zhu Zhuqing's hand and walked slowly forward.
Feeling a slight tremor in his palm, he turned to look at the girl beside him: "What's wrong?"
Zhu Zhuqing's fingers tightened unconsciously: "They...don't really mind?"
Chu Xinghe stopped and cupped her face in his hands: "Yanyan personally urged me to come find you."
He smiled gently, "As for Lingling, she even prepared a gift for our first meeting."
The hotel receptionist cast an inquiring glance at her, and Zhu Zhuqing immediately lowered her head, her long black hair cascading down like a waterfall, obscuring her flushed cheeks.
"Let's go." Chu Xinghe took her hand again. "They're waiting for you."
Walking through the long corridor covered with a red carpet, Zhu Zhuqing followed closely behind.
When Chu Xinghe stopped in front of a luxury suite, her heart was pounding so hard it felt like it would burst out of her chest.
Inside the suite, Dugu Yan, holding a teacup, said to Ye Lingling, "If that guy doesn't come back soon, we'll..."
The sound of the door opening interrupted her.
The two looked up at the same time and saw Chu Xinghe standing at the door with Zhu Zhuqing.
"Finally decided to bring it back?" Dugu Yan put down her teacup, her purple hair swaying gently as she stood up. "You've kept us waiting."
Ye Lingling silently took out an exquisite gift box from behind her and handed it to Zhu Zhuqing with both hands: "Welcome."
Those two simple words brought tears to Zhu Zhuqing's eyes.
She accepted the gift box, her voice soft yet firm: "Thank you. I didn't expect..."
"I didn't expect us to be so generous?" Dugu Yan raised an eyebrow and continued the conversation, "If it weren't for this guy's constant absent-mindedness..."
"Sister Yan Yan!" Chu Xinghe's ears turned red, and he hurriedly interrupted.
The four of them sat around the coffee table.
Zhu Zhuqing carefully opened the gift box, and a silver chain inlaid with cat's eye stones shone brightly under the light.
"How is it?" Dugu Yan rested her chin on her hand. "Lingling spent a long time choosing and insisted that this one best suits your temperament."
Ye Lingling nodded gently: "You'll look really good in it."
Zhu Zhuqing suddenly stood up and bowed deeply to the two of them: "I will try my best not to be a burden to everyone, and I will cherish this friendship."
"Hey!" Dugu Yan pulled her up abruptly. "Who asked you to give such a grand gesture?"
Although his tone was fierce, his movements were very gentle. "From now on, we're family."
Chu Xinghe was grinning foolishly to the side when three pairs of beautiful eyes glared at him simultaneously. He immediately sat up straight and said, "I didn't say anything..."
Dugu Yan rolled her eyes: "You better remember this, if you dare to bully Lingling and Zhuqing..."
"How could I dare!" Chu Xinghe raised his hands in surrender, which amused Ye Lingling, who covered her mouth and chuckled.
As Zhu Zhuqing watched this scene, her tense nerves finally relaxed, and a faint smile unconsciously appeared on her lips.
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Chapter 109 Qin Ming Visits Shrek Academy
That evening, the entire Royal Fighting Team sat together in a private room at the hotel restaurant.
Chu Xinghe stood up and coughed lightly: "Let me formally introduce you. This is Zhu Zhuqing, a level 28 agility-attack type Battle Soul Master, our newest member."
Yun Wuyai immediately let out a loud whistle: "Boss has brought another beauty..."
Before he could finish speaking, Yu Feng covered his mouth and dragged him to a corner.
"Shut up!" Yu Feng lowered his voice. "Didn't you see how deadly Yan-jie's eyes could kill?"
Osro leaned closer with a mischievous grin: "But it really is beautiful. The captain has excellent taste."
On the other side, Dugu Yan was elegantly cutting her steak, saying without looking up, "If you say another word, tonight's midnight snack will be Jade Phosphorus Serpent Venom."
The private room fell completely silent.
As night deepened, Zhu Zhuqing stood alone on the hotel rooftop, the night breeze ruffling her long hair.
Footsteps sounded behind her, and Dugu Yan walked over, holding two glasses of red wine.
"Can't sleep?" Dugu Yan handed over a glass of wine.
Zhu Zhuqing accepted the wine glass and thanked her softly.
The two clinked glasses, the red wine gleaming a deep red under the moonlight.
"Do you know why I agreed to let you join?" Dugu Yan suddenly asked.
Zhu Zhuqing shook her head, her dark eyes filled with doubt.
Dugu Yan chuckled lightly: "Because of the way that guy looks at you."
She took a sip of her wine and said slowly, "Exactly the same as when I first saw Lingling."
Zhu Zhuqing's fingers tightened slightly, and the wine glass reflected her flushed cheeks.
"Don't catch a cold if you've been drinking." Ye Lingling's voice suddenly came from behind.
She took two coats and gently draped them over their shoulders.
The three women stood side by side, a gentle night breeze blowing.
In the distance, Chu Xinghe's screams could be faintly heard: "Enough, enough... I really can't drink anymore..."
"Those guys were getting him drunk," Dugu Yan said gleefully.
Ye Lingling covered her mouth and chuckled: "Serves you right."
Zhu Zhuqing looked at the two girls beside her, and her tense shoulders finally relaxed.
...
The next day, in the rest room of the Soto City Grand Arena, the Royal Fighting Team had just easily defeated the last ace team.
Qin Ming put away his tactical board and looked around at everyone: "We'll set off back to Tiandou City tomorrow. Get some rest tonight."
"What? So fast!" Yun Wuyai wailed dramatically, clutching his head in his hands. "I haven't had enough of the beauties of Soto City yet!"
Yu Feng grabbed him by the back of his collar and dragged him out: "Shut up, or Yanzi will poison you if you keep yelling."
Oslo laughed gleefully from the side: "That's right, we haven't settled the score with you for getting the captain drunk yesterday."
Chu Xinghe didn't join in the team members' playful banter, but instead turned to Zhu Zhuqing beside him: "Are you going back to say goodbye to your former 'classmates'?"
Zhu Zhuqing shook her head without hesitation, her slender fingers gripping his hand tightly: "There is no one there worth saying goodbye to."
Her voice was calm and firm, and there was not a trace of lingering affection in her eyes.
Dugu Yan and Ye Lingling happened to witness this scene, and the two exchanged a smile.
Dugu Yan's purple hair fluttered slightly as she deliberately raised her voice: "Some people only have new loves in their eyes now, and have forgotten about us old loves."
Ye Lingling gently tugged at Dugu Yan's sleeve and whispered, "Sister Yan..."
Chu Xinghe shook his head helplessly, but couldn't hide the smile on his lips.
Zhu Zhuqing's face flushed slightly, but she did not let go of Chu Xinghe's hand.
...
The lights in the Soto Arena dimmed, and the crowd in the stands had already dispersed.
Qin Ming stood in the empty passageway, looking at the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy badge on his chest, his expression complex.
"Teacher Qin, are you really going to Shrek Academy?" came the voice of teammate Yu Feng from behind.
Qin Ming didn't turn around, but nodded slightly: "Yes, some things should be made clear face to face."
"But they are now…" Yu Feng hesitated, unable to finish his sentence.
"I know." Qin Ming finally turned around, a bitter smile tugging at the corner of his mouth, "but that is, after all, my alma mater."
He raised his hand and patted Yu Feng on the shoulder: "You guys go back to the hotel and rest first, I'll be right back."
Stepping out of the arena, the night breeze was slightly cool.
Qin Ming walked along the familiar path towards the outskirts of the city. On both sides was the bustling night market of Soto City, with vendors' shouts rising and falling.
He recalled that when he was studying at Shrek Academy, he and his classmates would often sneak out to buy barbecue skewers.
Although Dean Flanders was stingy at the time, his eyes always held high expectations for his students.
"Ten copper soul coins a string!" The vendor's shout brought him back to reality.
Qin Ming stopped and took out a few copper coins: "Give me a string."
"Alright!" The vendor deftly flipped the grilled meat. "This Soul Master looks unfamiliar. Are you here to participate in the Soul Battle?"
"I guess so." Qin Ming took the skewer, took a bite, and the aroma of the oil filled his mouth.
This tastes exactly the same as I remember.
Leaving the bustling city, the streets gradually became deserted.
Under the moonlight, Shrek Academy's dilapidated sign hung crookedly on the doorpost, its paint peeling off, making it look particularly desolate.
Qin Ming stood in front of the door, took a deep breath, and pushed open the creaking wooden door.
Flander's office lights were on.
Qin Ming straightened his collar and gently knocked on the door.
"Come in." A familiar voice came from inside.
Pushing open the door, I found Flanders engrossed in his ledgers, his glasses reflecting the candlelight.
Without even looking up, he said directly, "I'll extend this month's rent payment for a few more days..."
"Dean," Qin Ming interrupted.
Flander jerked his head up, his eyes widening behind his glasses: "Qin Ming?"
He put down his quill and looked his former student up and down. "Your attire..."
Qin Ming bowed respectfully: "I have now broken through to the Soul Emperor level and am teaching at the Heaven Dou Royal Academy."
"The Heaven Dou Royal Academy?" Flander's expression instantly turned cold. He slowly leaned back in his chair. "That noble academy of the Heaven Dou royal family?"
"Yes," Qin Ming said frankly. "I'm here to lead the team to Soto City to participate in the Soul Battle, and I came here specifically to visit you."
"Visiting?" Flander sneered. "Are you here to laugh at us?"
The office door was suddenly pushed open, and Yu Xiaogang stormed in with a grim face: "Flander, you have to control that kid Tang San, he..."
He stopped abruptly halfway through his sentence, staring intently at Qin Ming.
"Master." Qin Ming nodded slightly.
Anger blazed in Yu Xiaogang's eyes: "So, people from your Heaven Dou Royal Academy dare to come to Shrek Academy? Your Chu Xinghe ruined my most prized disciple!"
Qin Ming frowned: "As far as I know, it was Dai Mubai who forced himself on Zhu Zhuqing first, and Chu Xinghe was just..."
"Bullshit!" Yu Xiaogang slammed his fist on the table, splashing ink everywhere. "Tang San is so distracted these days that he can't even make proper hidden weapons. He was humiliated in public by your people!"
Flander narrowed his eyes: "Qin Ming, you think you're all grown up now, bringing students from a prestigious academy to bully your junior?"
Qin Ming felt a tightness in his chest as he looked at Flander's unfamiliar face.
He paused for a moment, then slowly took a step back: "It seems that Shrek... has really changed."
He turned and left, followed by Yu Xiaogang's furious roar: "Go back to your aristocratic academy!"
Qin Ming's footsteps sounded particularly heavy in the corridor.
As he pushed open the academy gate, he sensed a cold, sinister gaze.
Turning my head, I saw Dai Mubai standing under the shadow of a tree, his eyes filled with resentment.
Under the old locust tree not far away, Tang San mechanically polished his hidden weapons, completely unaware that his fingers were being cut and bleeding from the metal.
A night breeze blew by, carrying the aroma of roasted meat from afar.
Qin Ming clenched his fists and strode back the way he came.
This time, he didn't look back.
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#110
Chapter 110 Tang San's Changes in Mindset
Inside the office, the candlelight cast long shadows of the two people.
Flander took off his glasses and slowly wiped the lenses with the corner of his clothes.
"Xiao Gang," he broke the silence, "we have to face reality. Without the qualifications of a high-level Soul Master Academy, we don't even have the right to register for the Continental Elite Soul Master Tournament."
Yu Xiaogang abruptly raised his head, a flash of anger in his eyes: "Are you questioning my teaching ability? My disciples..."
"Your disciples are all excellent," Flander interrupted him, putting his glasses back on. "But rules are rules. Without the qualification certification of a high-level Soul Master Academy, even the most talented Soul Master cannot enter the arena."
Yu Xiaogang clenched his fist, his knuckles turning white: "So you mean..."
"We need to be affiliated with a high-level Soul Master academy," Frande said firmly.
"Heh." Yu Xiaogang sneered, "Let me guess, you want me to go to the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan and kneel down to beg that old stubborn man?"
Flander squinted, his glasses reflecting the candlelight: "I have an old friend in Heaven Dou City, and the advanced soul master academy she attends is short of teachers."
He deliberately slowed his speech, "I remember she has always admired your theories, and she would definitely welcome you if you were willing to join her academy."
Yu Xiaogang frowned suspiciously: "Who?"
"A reliable person." Flanders avoided answering. "Most importantly, she will give you enough freedom for your research."
Yu Xiaogang remained silent for a moment, then suddenly slammed his hand on the table and stood up: "Flander! What exactly are you planning?"
"I'm trying to save your research, to save these kids' futures!" Flander raised his voice. "Do you think I'd stoop to begging? But for Shrek, I'll do anything!"
A muffled thud suddenly came from outside the door.
The two turned their heads at the same time and saw Ma Hongjun hurriedly scrambling up from the corner of the wall, clutching an oil paper package tightly in his arms.
"Dean, Dean..." the fat man stammered, "I, I was just passing by..."
Flanders took a deep breath: "Went to town to buy roast chicken again?"
Ma Hongjun shrank his neck: "I'm hungry..."
"Get to the training ground and run twenty laps!" Flander roared. "If I catch you slacking off again, your entire allowance for this month will be deducted!"
Ma Hongjun felt like he had been granted a pardon and ran away with the roast chicken in his arms.
He muttered softly in the hallway, "At least the chickens survived..."
Seeing this, Yu Xiaogang suddenly slumped back into his chair, looking deflated: "As long as I can continue my research, I'm fine with anywhere."
Flander walked to the window and gazed at the dark night: "I'll make the contact tomorrow. You... be prepared."
Yu Xiaogang did not answer, but stared blankly at the flickering candlelight on the table.
...
The bright moonlight shone through the window, casting dappled shadows on the dormitory floor.
Xiao Wu squatted down in front of Tang San, her slender fingers gripping his arm tightly.
She could feel Tang San's arm trembling slightly, and his eyes, which always shone with wisdom, were now dull and lifeless.
"Third Brother, look at me!" Xiao Wu shook him violently. "That Chu Xinghe was just lucky. How could he possibly compare to you?"
Tang San slowly raised his head, a bitter smile tugging at the corners of his lips: "A twelve-year-old Soul Master, fourth ring of ten thousand years..."
His voice trailed off, "I've cultivated the Xuan Tian Gong for so many years, but it's all a joke in front of him."
Xiao Wu's eyes reddened with anxiety: "That's not how it is!"
Just then, the dormitory door was kicked open with a bang.
Dai Mubai walked in with a gloomy face, his sinister eyes burning with anger.
He grabbed Tang San by the collar: "Tang San! You're just admitting defeat like this? That bastard humiliated us in front of everyone, are you just going to stay like this forever?"
Tang San let Dai Mubai hold him, his eyes still vacant: "Boss Dai, you don't understand..."
"I don't understand?" Dai Mubai sneered. "All I know is that a true strongman is never defeated by a single defeat!"
Xiao Wu quickly stood up and pulled Dai Mubai away: "Don't do this! Third Brother needs time..."
"Time?" Dai Mubai released his grip, his voice laced with sarcasm. "What we lack most is time! That Chu Xinghe is growing stronger and stronger, while we..."
His words were interrupted by footsteps at the door.
Yu Xiaogang stood outside the door, his face grave: "Xiao San, come out for a moment."
The corridor under the moonlight was quiet and secluded.
Yu Xiaogang took a deep breath: "We are about to head to Heaven Dou City to join a high-level Soul Master Academy."
Tang San suddenly looked up: "Heaven Dou City?"
"That's right." Yu Xiaogang nodded. "There's a better cultivation environment there, a more complete simulated cultivation field, and…"
"Teacher," Tang San suddenly interrupted him, a sharp glint in his eyes, "Why are you only making this decision now? With my talent, I could have entered a high-level Soul Master Academy from the very beginning."
Yu Xiaogang's body visibly stiffened for a moment.
He avoided Tang San's gaze, his voice slightly strained: "Every academy has its own unique characteristics, Shrek..."
"Is it because your theory requires test subjects?" Tang San asked softly, his voice eerily calm.
Yu Xiaogang's face turned pale instantly. He opened his mouth, but couldn't utter a word.
After a long silence, he spoke again: "Xiao San, you have to believe me. Chu Xinghe's cultivation progressed so quickly in the early stages, he must have been practicing some kind of evil technique. This kind of hasty and opportunistic cultivation method might not even be able to break through to the Soul King level."
He pressed down on Tang San's shoulder, his voice growing increasingly excited: "But you're different! You have twin martial souls, unparalleled hidden weapon techniques, and my theoretical guidance. With your accumulated strength, your future achievements will definitely surpass his!"
Tang San quietly looked at his teacher. He recalled how Yu Xiaogang had assured him at Notting Academy that Shrek Academy was the best place for him.
And now...
"I understand, teacher." Tang San finally nodded, the light in his eyes returning. "I will pull myself together."
Yu Xiaogang breathed a sigh of relief: "Good boy. Go and get ready, we'll be leaving soon."
Back in his dormitory, Tang San found the atmosphere unusually somber.
Dai Mubai leaned against the window, his expression shifting between anger and uncertainty. Xiao Wu sat on the edge of the bed, watching him with worry. Oscar quietly prepared sausages in the corner, his fingers deftly turning the meat. Ma Hongjun, meanwhile, held half a roast chicken, his mouth glistening with oil as he ate.
"Third Brother..." Xiao Wu was about to speak when Tang San raised his hand to stop her.
"I'm fine." He walked to his bedside and began packing his luggage. "The teacher said he would take us to the advanced Soul Master Academy in Heaven Dou City."
Dai Mubai snorted coldly: "Finally, you've made a wise decision."
Oscar raised his head, his eyes gleaming with shrewdness: "Tian Dou City... I've heard that prices there are particularly high."
Upon hearing this, Ma Hongjun almost dropped the chicken leg in his hand: "What? Does that mean we won't be able to afford roast chicken anymore?"
"All you ever think about is eating!" Dai Mubai glared at him.
Tang San stopped what he was doing and looked around the dormitory where he had lived for several years.
Spiderwebs in the corner, a creaking wooden bed, a drafty window...
He suddenly realized that he seemed to have never really examined this so-called "academy".
"Do you think..." Tang San began softly, "that we can really become stronger in Heaven Dou City?"
A brief silence fell over the dormitory.
Oscar finally broke the silence: "At least it's better than staying here. To be honest, I've been wanting to try out the advanced academy's simulated training ground for a long time."
Ma Hongjun licked the grease off his fingers: "As long as there's meat to eat, I'll go anywhere!"
Xiao Wu walked to Tang San's side and gently took his hand: "Third Brother, no matter where we go, as long as we're together, that's enough."
Dai Mubai looked at them and suddenly grinned: "Once we get stronger, we'll definitely settle the score with that Chu Xinghe!"
As Tang San felt the warmth of Xiao Wu's palm, the gloom in his heart gradually dissipated.
He recalled Yu Xiaogang's words, and the Tang Sect's unique skills and twin martial souls he possessed.
Perhaps... the teacher is right.
Temporary victories or defeats mean nothing; true strength lies in the future.
"Alright." Tang San's eyes hardened again. "Then let's start over in Heaven Dou City."
Oscar and Ma Hongjun exchanged a glance and sighed simultaneously.
They knew that from this day forward, everything would be different.
It was late at night, but the lights in the dormitory were still on.
Tang San sat on the edge of the bed, carefully wiping his hidden weapons.
Each of the hidden weapons gleamed with a cold, sharp light, just like his eyes at that moment.
Chu Xinghe...
Tang San silently recited the name in his heart, vowing to repay the defeat the other party had brought him tenfold.
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