Chapter 254: A New Journey Begins!
In front of the Pope's palace, waves of excited discussion erupted. Dai Yao's decision had struck the audience like a bolt of lightning.
This unparalleled genius, right after securing victory in the tournament, had chosen to join Spirit Hall. With Spirit Hall's dedicated training, just how powerful could Dai Yao become? Was this the beginning of a new era, where another figure like Qian Daoliu would rise within Spirit Hall? And would the two great empires or the seven clans produce someone like Tang Chen to counter Spirit Hall's growing power?
The red-robed bishops beamed, already envisioning a future with Dai Yao strengthening Spirit Hall. But soul masters aligned with the two empires or the seven clans looked troubled, unable to fathom Dai Yao's decision.
Salas and Ferdinand exchanged a glance, a knowing smile passing between them. Ferdinand gazed at the spirited young man before Bibi Dong and saw a glimpse of the determined child who had once struggled to survive in the Star Luo Empire.
"Almost ten years of effort have finally borne fruit. Dai Yao, I've waited so long for the day you'd join Spirit Hall!" Ferdinand's eyes turned slightly red with emotion.
Taking Dai Yao from the Star Luo Empire in a way that nearly severed ties, yet ensuring he didn't immediately join Spirit Hall, had drawn considerable criticism. Without Bibi Dong's firm decision, after reviewing Dai Yao's background, to declare him the sharpening stone for the Golden Generation, Ferdinand might have been crushed in Spirit Hall's power struggles. But Dai Yao's success had validated his persistence, making all prior doubts now seem laughable.
Salas, also feeling relieved, stroked his goatee with a pleased smile. He nudged Ferdinand and teased, "Shouldn't I get the credit? I looked after Dai Yao in the Heaven Dou Empire for six years, whereas you barely had him in Star Luo for one year. Not to mention, you didn't 'look after' him so much as just take him away."
Ferdinand flared up, pointing an accusing finger at Salas. "Beanpole! If it weren't for me taking the heat and bringing him here, what would you have to brag about now?"
After a brief argument, the two couldn't help but laugh. Years of shared effort had finally come to fruition, filling them both with joy.
As Dai Yao's words faded into the crowd's excited murmurs, Ning Fengzhi sighed deeply, his face tinged with regret as he looked over at Ning Rongrong, who was staring at Dai Yao in silence. Gently, he patted her hair and spoke softly, "Rongrong?"
Ning Rongrong, clutching her small hands tightly, lowered her head as his words broke her from her daze. Her voice trembled. "Father, let's go…"
"Aren't you going to say goodbye?" Ning Fengzhi asked gently.
She shook her head, her voice barely a whisper, "No…"
Her barely audible reply made Ning Fengzhi's heart ache, and he continued to stroke her hair soothingly. Sword Douluo, normally impassive, smiled faintly and said, "Rongrong, life is long. If it's meant to be, you will meet again."
Ning Rongrong's gaze softened. She looked over at Dai Yao one last time before she, Ning Fengzhi, and the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan quietly left the arena. Watching their figures retreat into the crowd, Dai Yao's heart grew heavy with gratitude. He owed much to the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan, and his promise to protect them during Spirit Hall's Soul Hunt already had a plan taking shape in his mind.
Turning back to Bibi Dong, he bowed respectfully. "Your Majesty, not only am I joining Spirit Hall, but Zhu Zhuqing and Feng Wutong have also decided to join."
Bibi Dong's gaze softened as she looked at Zhu Zhuqing and Feng Wutong. "Is that what you both wish?"
The two women stepped forward, moving to stand beside Dai Yao, and nodded without hesitation.
At this sight, the Titled Douluos behind Bibi Dong couldn't help but smile. Both young women's potential was undeniable; although younger than Spirit Hall's Golden Generation by four or five years, their soul power levels weren't far behind, and their combat prowess was similarly formidable. Once Dai Yao, Zhu Zhuqing, Feng Wutong, and the Golden Generation became Titled Douluos, Spirit Hall would shine brighter than ever.
Ghost Douluo's face broke into a strange grin, his expression unnerving due to his spirit. Lingyuan Douluo happily embraced Feng Wutong, while Qingluan Douluo merely nodded approvingly, casting a cool glance at Dai Yao before sternly instructing Feng Wutong, "Train with Lingyuan this week, and come to my hall next week. Though you've joined Spirit Hall, remember, cultivation is like rowing against the current. There's no room for complacency."
Feng Wutong straightened, feeling a trace of fear as she replied, "Yes, Master."
Lingyuan Douluo, ever cheerful, had no strict airs when teaching, but Qingluan Douluo was a true disciplinarian, quick to correct even the slightest error. Satisfied with his disciple's respectfulness, Qingluan Douluo nodded and transformed into a stream of light, disappearing into the mountains beyond.
Although Feng Wutong now had two Titled Douluos as her teachers, Zhu Zhuqing had yet to receive one. As for Dai Yao, everyone assumed he was under Bibi Dong's direct guidance and dared not even think of competing for him. But seeing some elders eyeing Zhu Zhuqing, Ghost Douluo quickly stepped forward, his delighted expression stiffening into a serious look as he appeared in front of her, startling everyone.
Ignoring their surprise, Ghost Douluo addressed Zhu Zhuqing, "You must feel the resonance between our martial souls. On the entire continent, only I am truly suited to be your teacher. What do you think?"
Zhu Zhuqing hesitated, glancing at Dai Yao for his opinion. After he nodded approvingly, she turned to Ghost Douluo and said respectfully, "Teacher."
"Ah, my good disciple!" Ghost Douluo was so thrilled he didn't know what to do with his hands, his face beaming. Chrysanthemum Douluo, seeing his friend's joy, felt happy for him, while a few other Titled Douluos sighed in regret, silently wishing they had acted faster.
Watching the usually composed Titled Douluos lose their decorum, Bibi Dong couldn't help but hold her forehead in exasperation. She sighed lightly, turning to Dai Yao, Zhu Zhuqing, and Feng Wutong with a faint smile. "Three days from now, I will personally host the ceremony for your official induction into Spirit Hall. For now, I suggest you all enjoy a well-deserved celebration."
"Thank you, Your Majesty, for your kindness," Dai Yao replied respectfully.
The three returned to the Auckland team, where their teammates, brimming with excitement, held back their words out of respect for the formal occasion. Dai Yao smiled at their pained expressions and, surrounded by his teammates, descended the steps of the Pope's palace, stepping into the sunlight of a new day.
"Lingyuan, keep them safe," Bibi Dong instructed coolly, watching the Auckland team as they walked away, laughter ringing from their retreating figures.
"Yes!" Lingyuan Douluo replied, bowing. In a flash, she disappeared, blending into the shadows near the Pope's palace.
With Dai Yao carrying three priceless soul bones, it was inevitable that some would be tempted. Lingyuan Douluo's presence ensured no harm would befall them.
Before the tournament, time had dragged slowly, but now it seemed to race by. The Auckland team's nine members quickly arrived at their inn, weary from the intense battle but eager to share a meal. Though their food had cooled, it tasted more delicious than ever as they savored their victory.
After the meal, Dai Yao distributed the promised herbs, and the team was delighted. Dai Yuanyi, his usual lazy self, lounged in a chair like a boneless creature and joked, "Dai Yao, now that you're in Spirit Hall, you're in a whole different world from us. Don't go forgetting about us!"
"Of course not," Dai Yao laughed, rolling his eyes.
At this, Luo Ling grabbed Dai Yuanyi's ear and scolded, "You think Dai Yao's as aimless as you? No wonder you're like this all day!"
Everyone burst out laughing, but the room fell silent when Feng Qianli walked over to Dai Yao, holding a cup of wine with a serious expression. Sensing the solemn moment, the group quieted, their attention focused on the two men.
"Dai Yao," Feng Qianli said gravely, "it's been an honor to fight alongside you. After today, you'll soar like an eagle beyond our reach. This may be the closest we'll ever be to you again."
Raising his glass, Feng Qianli continued, "So here's to you, in thanks for everything you've done."
Feeling the weight of Feng Qianli's words, Dai Yao lifted his glass, their cups meeting with a clear, ringing sound. "Thank you, too, for your efforts. It was only thanks to all of you holding back the Spirit Hall team that I had the chance to face Xie Yue and Hu Liena."
"Thank you, everyone."
Suddenly, the team realized that with the tournament over, they would soon graduate. Each would head out to carve their own path, possibly never to gather again. A bittersweet sense of farewell filled their hearts.
"Cheers!" Dai Yuanyi bellowed, slamming his cup on the table, tears glistening in his eyes. He looked at Dai Yao and said, "I won't get all sentimental. All my thanks are in this drink!"
Then, Dai Yao drank the entire mug of wine in one go.
This gesture resonated with everyone, and one by one, they raised their glasses to toast Dai Yao, expressing their gratitude. With no way to refuse, Dai Yao suggested they all raise their cups together and drink to a future filled with blessings.
Even Luo Ling, who rarely drank, was moved to take a sip.
A faint smile appeared on Zhu Zhuqing's usually cold face, while Dugu Yan absentmindedly stroked the Wisdom Skull she held, staring at Dai Yao with determination in her eyes, as if resolving something deep within herself.
The Papal Palace
Bibi Dong sat atop the Pope's throne, exuding an imposing presence. On either side of her stood several Title Douluos and two Platinum Bishops.
Between the two rows, the Spirit Hall battle team knelt on the ground, trembling slightly. Despite Dai Yao eventually joining Spirit Hall, their loss in the finals had deeply embarrassed the organization.
Yue Guan (Chrysanthemum Douluo) and Gui Mei (Ghost Douluo) sighed in unison. They had watched the Golden Generation grow up and couldn't help but feel pity seeing their self-recrimination.
Bibi Dong glanced at the despondent figures before her and shook her head slightly.
"Stand up," she ordered.
"Your Holiness, we have shamed Spirit Hall. Please punish us!"
Xie Yue gritted his teeth, his voice filled with anguish.
Bibi Dong's brows furrowed slightly, and her tone turned icy.
"I said, stand up."
Her crisp voice echoed through the Papal Palace. Though it wasn't loud, it carried an undeniable authority that compelled the Spirit Hall battle team to rise to their feet.
Even as they stood, they kept their heads lowered, not daring to meet her gaze.
With a sigh, Bibi Dong leaned on her Papal Staff and descended from the high platform. She stopped before Hu Liena, who was trembling slightly with her head bowed, and said in a gentle voice:
"Dai Yao defeating you was a good thing. For too long, everything has gone your way. You've never experienced real failure, which made you arrogant and dismissive of others—especially Dai Yao's teammates."
"What do you think of them now?"
Yan, recalling how he and his four teammates were firmly held back by Oakland's members, leaving them unable to advance, reluctantly admitted, "They are very strong."
Bibi Dong's gaze swept over Yan, then turned back toward the high platform.
"Enough kneeling. The fact that you feel such remorse proves you still have potential. Don't waste my time here—return and focus on your training."
Her tone sharpened as she continued:
"If you have the courage, you may train in Death Canyon. If you pass its trials, I will grant you the chance to challenge Dai Yao again."
At the mention of Death Canyon, the Spirit Hall battle team's pupils contracted. Even the Title Douluos showed subtle changes in their expressions.
Death Canyon was a notorious training ground under Spirit Hall's control, known for its extreme mortality rate. Those who survived its trials, however, often achieved extraordinary success.
After a moment of hesitation, Xie Yue and Yan gritted their teeth and said in unison, "Yes, thank you, Your Holiness!"
Bibi Dong nodded faintly and said indifferently, "Good. Now leave. Nanna, stay behind."
Hu Liena froze, unsure of Bibi Dong's intentions. However, she did have something she wanted to discuss with her teacher.
As the heavy doors of the Papal Palace closed with a deep rumble, Bibi Dong's expression softened. She looked at her disciple with a rare warmth and asked:
"Nanna, do you know why I asked you to stay behind?"
Hu Liena bit her lip and replied, "I do not, Your Holiness."
With a gentle laugh, Bibi Dong said, "Nanna, you are destined to inherit the position of Pope. You must learn to understand the hearts of others."
Hu Liena's heart trembled, and she quickly lowered her head.
"I'm not worthy, Your Holiness. Today, I lost to Dai Yao and Oakland Academy, bringing shame to Spirit Hall. As for the Pope's position, I believe Dai Yao is more suited for it than I am."
Bibi Dong smiled gently. "Victory and defeat are part of life. I will not give up on you because of a single loss. Remember, you are the leader of the Golden Generation. If not for Dai Yao's peculiar ability to counter you, today's outcome might have been different."
In the Martial Soul Fusion Skill between her and Xie Yue, Hu Liena was the dominant force. She was, without question, the most terrifying member of the Golden Generation.
"As for the Pope's position, as long as Dai Yao carries the blood of the Dai family, he will never inherit this role."
Her tone turned resolute, leaving no room for doubt.
Although Spirit Hall welcomed Soul Masters from all backgrounds, Dai Yao was once the Fourth Prince of the Star Luo Empire. No matter how talented he was, Spirit Hall would never allow him to ascend to the position of Pope.
He could be nurtured and utilized, but the Papal throne would remain out of reach—a non-negotiable principle of Spirit Hall.
Bibi Dong's tone softened as she looked deeply into Hu Liena's eyes.
"Though he cannot become Pope, he can become the sharpest sword in your hands, cutting down all your enemies. Learning to wield this sword will be your lifelong challenge."
A heavy silence filled the Papal Palace. Hu Liena clenched her fists, her body trembling slightly before she steadied herself and lifted her head with determination.
"Your Holiness, I understand your meaning. However, if I use your authority to coerce Dai Yao, he will reject it—and so will I."
She took a deep breath and continued:
"Therefore, I must prove that I have the strength to wield this sword myself. I know you'll send elders to secretly protect us in Death Canyon, but I want to go to Slaughter City instead."
At the mention of Slaughter City, Bibi Dong's pupils contracted sharply. After a long pause, she replied with concern:
"Nanna, do you know what Slaughter City entails?"
"I do."
"It's a place filled with enemies, surrounded by death. Only by crossing the Hell Road can one be reborn. Nanna, it's too dangerous."
"But that's what makes it a true test, doesn't it?"
Hu Liena's resolute gaze caused Bibi Dong to tremble slightly. While proud, she couldn't suppress her worry. After a long sigh, she relented:
"If you're so determined, I will allow it. However, Slaughter City's dangers far exceed your expectations. You must first train in Death Canyon. If your performance surpasses my expectations, only then will I permit you to enter Slaughter City."
"Thank you, Teacher!"
As Bibi Dong sighed, Hu Liena knelt gracefully, her alluring figure forming a mesmerizing curve.
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