Chapter 491: Love Struck
"Xiao Ya!"
"Nannan!"
Two youthful voices cried out, and suddenly two figures dashed toward Ye Wen.
Even before they had started the barbecue, Ye Wen had noticed Bei Bei and Xu Sanshi, two classic cases of romantic foolishness: Bei Bei, infatuated with Tang Ya to the point of rebelling against his responsibilities, and Xu Sanshi, ever guilt ridden and unashamedly loyal to Jiang Nannan, the ultimate lovestruck suitor.
Yes, both would inevitably become obstacles to his disciples' future growth. Although both had substantial potential Bei Bei's martial soul would eventually evolve into the Radiant Holy Dragon after Mu En's death, and Xu Sanshi's half awakened martial soul had the potential to evolve into the legendary Xuanwu their current limitations hindered their true talent. At this stage, they couldn't hope to rival Tang Ya or Jiang Nannan, so they remained as mere alternates.
Of course, Ye Wen planned for his disciples to claim the championship title twice in a row, securing Tianxing Academy's reputation, so he needed worthy opponents to make the contest engaging.
Realizing their blunder in their eagerness to approach Ye Wen, the two quickly exchanged a glance, bowing with respect.
"Please forgive our discourtesy, Your Grace. We were overcome with concern," Bei Bei said, a trace of regret in his tone.
Ye Wen waved off the apology, his gaze indifferent as he spoke. "Judging by your reactions, you must have a deep connection with my disciples. If you wish to see them, keep in mind they're focused solely on training now, not on matters of the heart."
Ye Wen's words, though calmly delivered, struck the two young men like a lightning bolt. Bei Bei was particularly disheartened, for unlike Xu Sanshi's one sided pursuit, Bei Bei had shared a heartfelt relationship with Tang Ya, even going so far as to help her hunt spirit rings.
Unwilling to let go, Bei Bei asked, "Your Grace, may I at least visit Tang Ya?"
The strange look in Ye Wen's eyes was impossible to ignore, and the quiet fell over the group as they awaited his response. Ye Wen finally spoke, his voice light but his words biting.
"I believe your name is Bei Bei, correct?"
Bei Bei instinctively nodded, though he was bracing himself for whatever was coming.
"Why do you think Tang Ya would ever return to you?" Ye Wen asked bluntly. "As her former boyfriend, you should know exactly what she's working toward. Tang Ya was always clear about her goals and when the Tang Sect's leadership was stripped from her, you didn't stand by her side. You joined forces with the Haotian Sect to take away the last of her pride. If you were in her place, could you still hold onto the same love?"
Silence fell like a heavy curtain. While the others didn't know the full story, they understood this much: betraying your partner by siding with outsiders to take everything from her was beyond unforgivable.
Even Ma Xiaotao and Ling Luochen looked at Bei Bei with disappointment. Everyone in the inner court knew of Bei Bei's choice to pursue an outsider over the devoted Zhang Lexuan, and as her close friends, Ma Xiaotao and Ling Luochen had often felt indignant on Zhang Lexuan's behalf. But Lexuan's unshakably gentle disposition kept them from saying anything directly. Now they simply cast disdainful glances at Bei Bei before turning away.
Bei Bei's face went pale. He opened his mouth to explain but found he couldn't speak. After all, it had been a divine command from the Sea God Tang San himself. Bei Bei now recalled that his great grandfather had urged him to go, and a horrible realization dawned it had all been a ploy to sever his love for Tang Ya completely.
His fists clenched tightly, a mix of anger and helplessness rising within him, feeling unbearably small and powerless. Still, an animal cornered will often lash out, and Bei Bei was now biting his own lip hard enough to draw blood as it dripped from his chin to the ground.
Seeing that the impact of his words had hit home, Ye Wen spared him a final blow and turned his attention to a similarly devastated Xu Sanshi.
"I remember you," Ye Wen remarked thoughtfully. "You were there the day I first visited Shrek Academy and met Xiao Yu. You even barged in and caused a scene while Nannan was taking me as her teacher. If memory serves, I got so annoyed I threw you out."
Xu Sanshi's face turned white.
As a consummate suitor, he had lost his temper that day in a fit of jealousy. Only later did he learn that his goddess Jiang Nannan had been formally apprenticed. Mortified by his outburst, he'd avoided Jiang Nannan for weeks. Now, a mortifying embarrassment in front of everyone had struck him speechless.
Ye Wen continued, "Give it up, Xu Sanshi. Nannan will never fall for you, not after what you did to her. Anyone would understand why she could never love you."
Everyone around perked up, eager to know what "that incident" was. Why stop halfway through the story? Mystery mongers should leave Douluo Continent, they thought.
Only Elder Xuan remained unmoved, his attention fixed on his roast chicken, as if understanding perfectly well the murky mess that was the Xu family's business. Yet his expression held a trace of realization as he recalled details he'd previously dismissed. Jiang Nannan's affiliation with Ye Wen was known among the high ranking members of Shrek's administration, though she had seemed an ordinary student. Why would such a prodigy interest an ultimate Douluo?
Shrewd as always, Ye Wen was sure to have a hidden agenda, Elder Xuan thought, grimacing in admiration.
Satisfied with the building tension, Ye Wen delivered his final blow.
"However, strength rules Douluo Continent. If you can defeat Tang Ya and Nannan in a fair fight, I'll step aside and let you have your way with them. And if you're impressive enough, I might even lend a hand in bringing you together."
The faint smile on Ye Wen's face was all Bei Bei and Xu Sanshi needed their hearts leapt with hope. Maybe, just maybe, they had a chance after all.
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Chapter 492: Shrek
In the end, Ye Wen departed, leaving behind a group of Shrek Academy's brightest students, their gazes full of respect. Among them, the three hopeless romantics were especially starry eyed.
Yet despite this relief, a shadow still lingered. Elder Xuan wanted nothing more than to return to Shrek Academy to discuss recent events with Mu En directly, but he ultimately couldn't leave the Academy's prodigies unprotected. He personally escorted them to Star Luo Empire's capital, where the upcoming All Continent Advanced Soul Master Tournament was to be held. Feeling reassured by the presence of a 97th level Super Douluo stationed in Star Luo, he finally set off for Shrek.
At Shrek Academy, Mu En, his body showing the ravages of time, sat outside the dormitories on his favorite reclining chair, relishing the youthful energy of the new students as they passed by. His withered face registered a hint of surprise when he sensed Elder Xuan's return.
"Why is Elder Xuan back?"
Initially tense, Mu En relaxed upon sensing Elder Xuan's aura it was steady, free from the turmoil that might accompany another disaster with the students. No, this seemed like something else entirely.
When Elder Xuan finally appeared before him in his usual unkempt state, Mu En could only sigh. Here was Shrek's next leader, his successor as Sea God Pavilion Master, yet he presented himself without the slightest regard for appearance. Could the Academy's future really rest safely in such hands? Still, Shrek was in a precarious position, without a wealth of viable successors. Mu En composed himself and spoke.
"Elder Xuan, if you've left the students behind to come back here, I'm guessing something serious has happened?"
Unlike his usual lighthearted self, Elder Xuan was uncharacteristically solemn. In a low voice, he replied, "Elder Mu, this matter is indeed serious and needs the attention of all Pavilion Elders. I request that you convene a meeting of the Pavilion."
Recognizing Elder Xuan's tone, Mu En cast aside his usual composure, asking only, "Is it really that serious?"
"It is," Elder Xuan affirmed gravely.
With no hesitation, Mu En activated a signal that summoned Shrek's most formidable forces to the Sea God Pavilion. The meeting wasn't limited to just the older elders directors from both the inner and outer courts were also in attendance.
As the only 98th level Super Douluo present, Elder Xuan took the seat beside Mu En. Once everyone had gathered, Mu En looked at Elder Xuan.
"Elder Xuan, everyone's here. Let's hear what's on your mind."
Nodding, Elder Xuan appreciated the straightforward approach and launched into his report. "Based on reliable information, the Holy Spirit Cult is currently operating out of the Sun Moon Empire, and they have a 99th level Ultimate Douluo among their ranks."
The room fell silent as death. The severity of this news weighed on everyone, particularly the Titled Douluos who were all too aware of the overwhelming power gap each level brought after the 95th rank. Even Elder Xuan himself wouldn't last five moves in a full force confrontation with Mu En.
Had Mu En been at his peak, none of this would be troubling. But now, Mu En was nearing the end of his lifespan, with even the Golden Tree's life energy unable to stave off his inevitable demise. The elders, perceptive as always, understood what Shrek might face once Mu En was gone. Their enmity with the Holy Spirit Cult was no small matter; it was only a matter of time before one side obliterated the other.
"Sun Moon Empire, huh?" Mu En murmured, not seeming surprised. Elder Xuan, catching this, asked, "You already knew the Holy Spirit Cult was there?"
"I suspected as much," Mu En admitted. "However, given my condition, I could not act rashly. You understand Shrek's current situation well, Elder Xuan you have little time left."
Hearing this, Elder Xuan's face turned red. Even with his straightforward mind, he knew Mu En to be a man of integrity. If Mu En had chosen not to act against the Holy Spirit Cult, it was because he understood Shrek's limitations. What Elder Xuan couldn't know was that Mu En's restraint was not purely pragmatic he had a complex history with the leader of the Holy Spirit Cult, and Shrek's "justice" was often little more than opportunism in the guise of heroism.
In the presence of absolute power, all schemes seemed laughable. Even with the strength of Shrek's 97th level Super Douluos and Elder Xuan at the 98th rank, they still lacked the confidence to confront an Ultimate Douluo. The silence hung heavy in the meeting room, a testament to the impending crisis. Mu En's gaze settled briefly on Yan Shaozhe, the head of the Martial Soul Department, as he continued.
"There's no need for alarm. My health will hold for another five or six years, enough time for Elder Xuan to break through to the 99th level," Mu En reassured. "If things worsen, Shrek could step aside and let the Heavenly Path Douluo face the Holy Spirit Cult. I've observed his strength; he's no weaker than I was at my peak."
"Still…"
"Elder Mu, this…"
A heavy sigh swept through the room. While they all wished to uphold Shrek's honor, they also recognized Mu En's words as wise. Most affected was Elder Xuan, who held a simple and loyal heart and was committed to defending Shrek's legacy. With a clenched fist, he assured Mu En.
"Rest easy, Elder Mu. I'll guard Shrek's honor with my life."
Mu En looked at Elder Xuan, a flicker of skepticism passing briefly through his eyes. After all, the Holy Spirit Cult's 99th level Douluo was none other than his old friend, the Dragon Sovereign Douluo. Though his Dark Dragon Martial Soul was a counterpart to Mu En's Radiant Holy Dragon, it was still undoubtedly stronger than Elder Xuan's Taotie Martial Soul. Yet outwardly, Mu En gave a nod of approval.
"Shrek's future is yours, Elder Xuan. But remember, preserving the Academy's survival is more important than clinging to its glory. If things turn desperate, go to the Heavenly Path Douluo for aid. It's no shame this war with the Sun Moon Empire isn't Shrek's alone."
Elder Xuan nodded, though deep down he remained as stubborn as ever.
After a brief silence, Mu En spoke again, this time considering Shrek's upcoming responsibilities. "Given that enhancing Elder Xuan's strength is our priority, we'll need a different escort for the Soul Master Tournament. Who among you would be willing to go?"
The elders exchanged looks, and eventually, two 97th level Super Douluos volunteered. History had seen rival factions attempt to assassinate young prodigies at such tournaments, but only under extreme circumstances would an Ultimate Douluo intervene.
Before the meeting concluded, Elder Xuan shared Ye Wen's intelligence on his powerful "strategies," deliberately intensifying the collective anxiety among Shrek's top fighters.
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Chapter 493: Before the Tournament
"Master, this Star Luo Imperial Capital isn't all that impressive," a young, innocent sounding voice piped up. It was Huo Yu'er, commenting offhandedly as she walked alongside Ye Wen. Ye Wen just smiled warmly in response, saying nothing.
Huo Yu'er's remark opened up a lively conversation among the other girls, who eagerly shared their opinions. The three nations of the former Douluo Continent Sky Dou, Star Luo, and Heaven Soul had retained ancient customs for far too long, clinging to outdated systems and city walls that, by now, looked more like relics. The Sun Moon Empire, their adversary, had already abandoned such antiquated ways; there were no city walls there, as they intended to push any battle onto Douluo soil, equipped with highly effective long range weapons the three nations of Douluo still couldn't match.
It was for this very reason that Shrek Academy had established its soul engineering department, a necessary adaptation since the Sun Moon Empire's advancements showed that Douluo would have no future if it didn't progress.
As the reigning champions of the Soul Master Tournament, Shrek Academy enjoyed special privileges: Star Luo would provide them with accommodations and first rate treatment. However, recognizing Ye Wen's status as a 99th level Ultimate Douluo, Star Luo's emperor himself had made special arrangements to honor his arrival. But Ye Wen, understanding that favors always come with strings attached and knowing the two sides were destined to clash in the future simply rented a modest house on the outskirts for the members of Tianxing Academy.
None of his disciples complained; they were well seasoned and unbothered by the lack of luxury, aware that, as soul masters, power mattered far more than opulence.
Settling down on a sofa, Ye Wen looked over the official rules for the tournament.
The first round was an elimination match.
As he read, he found himself muttering, "Hmm... Douluo has made some progress after all, considering there are now vastly more advanced academies and sects compared to ten thousand years ago."
Now, Tianxing Academy would be competing for qualification among a massive pool of 133 advanced soul academies or soul engineering schools. As he perused the extensive list of competitors, Ye Wen raised an eyebrow. It reminded him of the sudden appearance of so many 'back alley' academies trying to squeeze in among the real contenders.
The initial round was a seven versus seven team match, and the pairings would be drawn the next day. After the first round, the competition would split into groups, with each group consisting of about eight or nine teams. The group matches would follow a rotation format, alternating between three randomly selected battle types: one on one eliminations, a 3 2 2 collaboration match, and seven on seven team battles. The specific format would be chosen at random before each match.
Ye Wen rubbed his temples, feeling a slight headache. "Well, it makes sense; more teams mean more rules."
This time, Ye Wen's goal for Tianxing Academy was to make a name for themselves. Only the influential and wealthy elite were currently aware of the academy's existence. But if Tianxing Academy could shine here, they could draw in more talent across the continent, establishing a foundation for future growth. The first match couldn't just be a win; it had to leave a lasting impression on the audience.
An idea forming in his mind, Ye Wen glanced at Huo Yu'er and the corners of his mouth curled into a slight, mischievous smile.
In the middle of tidying up their rented house, Huo Yu'er suddenly shivered. "What was that?" she murmured to herself, momentarily perplexed by the odd feeling. Yet, her innocent nature soon allowed her to shrug it off.
At that moment, the girls heard Ye Wen's voice calling from the living room, prompting them to stop what they were doing and gather there. Aside from Ye Wen's five female disciples, two more young girls from the Body Sect had joined their team as substitutes.
When it came to recruiting additional members, Ye Wen had been quite selective. Since the team already consisted of five girls, he figured they might as well form an all girl team not that he was just looking forward to seeing a group of skilled girls in action, of course.
The tournament's team competition required a minimum of seven participants. If Tianxing Academy only fielded five members, the audience might mistake them for a struggling academy that couldn't even field a complete team of seven.
"Huo Yu'er," Ye Wen began in a gentle tone, "I have a small request."
The kind expression on his face only made Huo Yu'er feel a creeping unease. "Master, please, not like that you're scaring me!"
Seeing her unease, Ye Wen's smile vanished, replaced by a serious expression. "Tomorrow's first match is a seven on seven team battle," he said, "but I want you, Yu'er, to take down the entire team on your own."
Huo Yu'er sighed in relief at his straightforward demeanor until she heard his next words.
Her face instantly changed. While Huo Yu'er was innocent, she wasn't foolish; she knew it would be impossible for her alone to defeat a whole team of advanced soul masters in the tournament. Today's soul masters were a far cry from the past, and the participants in this year's tournament all boasted impressive soul power, with most at or above the 40th level. Even if she could handle one or two of them, she was still only a newly advanced Soul Elder; taking on an entire team was far beyond her.
"No way, Master! I can't possibly do it," she exclaimed, frantically shaking her head before turning to her senior sisters. "Please let Sister Nan and Sister Ya handle this they're both Soul Ancestors. They'll do much better than me."
Huo Yu'er knew that, as her senior disciples, Jiang Nannan and Tang Ya would gladly take on the challenge, hoping to impress Ye Wen. But Ye Wen knew his disciples' true capabilities well, and while they were indeed strong, they weren't yet capable of making the grand statement he wanted for Tianxing Academy. And now, with the protective limitations he'd placed on Huo Yu'er lifted, it was time to unleash her full potential.
"Just hear me out first, Yu'er," Ye Wen said, a glint of excitement in his eyes. "You'll be allowed to use the special weapon I gave you, and you can also unleash your other martial soul. This time, you'll be leading with Ice Snow Maiden, not Spirit Eyes."
Seeing his earnest expression, Huo Yu'er stopped in her tracks. "This isn't just your chance to shine it's also an opportunity for Tianxing Academy. So be brave, Yu'er. Show the whole continent just what Tianxing Academy's top disciple is made of."
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Chapter 494: A Different Yet Familiar Debut (Part 1)
Huo Yu'er pressed her lips together, gazing at Ye Wen's stern, unwavering eyes. A tremor ran through her heart, and after a moment's hesitation, she gave a slow nod. Yes, she was no longer the weak little Dai Yu'er of her past now she was Huo Yu'er, the senior disciple of Tianxing Academy, a destined figure of change for the continent.
Though it was just a small decision, Huo Yu'er felt a deep sense of renewal within herself.
Today, the fervor surrounding the Soul Master Tournament had reached heights akin to the Olympic Games on Earth in 2005. Unlike in the past, where the tournament was more of a high level event among powerful factions, today's matches were capable of stopping traffic and drawing mass public attention.
As a 99th level Douluo, Ye Wen naturally received prime seating next to Emperor Xu Jiawei of the Star Luo Empire. Sitting there, he couldn't help but find the emperor's name oddly mundane for a ruler of such a formidable nation.
However, Ye Wen couldn't deny his appreciation for Xu Jiawei's aptitude. For an emperor, he was both skilled and politically astute. With a pleasant smile, Emperor Xu spoke, "Lord Tianxing, you seem rather confident. Tell me, what kind of talents have you brought to the tournament this time?"
Recognizing the emperor's value as a crucial counterweight to the Sun Moon Empire, Ye Wen responded courteously. "Heh, Your Majesty, you'll see soon enough. I'm sure my disciples will surprise you."
As they exchanged polite conversation, Emperor Xu noted the distance Ye Wen kept in his tone. Internally, he sighed, sensing it was unlikely he'd gain any allegiance from this powerful figure.
The tournament stage was impressive, raised a full five meters high with a hundred meter span in each direction. Surrounding the arena were 108 metal columns, not just for show but part of a defensive soul formation. During the match, they'd be activated by 108 soul masters to form a barrier, preventing attacks from spilling over and endangering the audience or damaging the royal city.
Though the match pairings were random, Tianxing Academy wasn't slated to compete until later in the lineup, which was unfortunate given the audience's mounting curiosity. Those with insider information were already keeping a close eye on the academy, however. And when they reviewed the lineup, most couldn't believe their eyes.
Team captain: Huo Yu'er, 32nd level Soul Elder.
Vice captain: Jiang Nannan, 45th level Soul Ancestor.
Team members: Xiao Xiao, 38th level Soul Elder; Tang Ya, 42nd level Soul Ancestor; Wei Na, 48th level Soul Ancestor; Long Yue, 58th level Soul King; and Long Can, 56th level Soul King.
For an advanced academy with an Ultimate Douluo backing them, having Soul Kings as their highest level members might be understandable, given the academy's young age and lack of deep resources. But to make a 32nd level Soul Elder the team captain? That decision left many scratching their heads.
Still, those with influence were not easily fooled. They knew Huo Yu'er was Ye Wen's first disciple, and for someone of her low soul power to be appointed captain must mean she possessed extraordinary abilities. Many factions had gone to great lengths to gather details about Huo Yu'er, and when they discovered her spirit was the Lingmu (Spirit Eyes), their astonishment was palpable.
Those in the know understood the importance of body spirits. The more vital the body part, the greater the spirit's potential. By that measure, Lingmu was one of the most powerful of all.
"Oh, I see," one onlooker murmured. "No wonder they let someone with such low soul power lead."
"Impressive," another remarked. "With a first disciple like her, it's no wonder the Ultimate Douluo has set his sights on the Body Sect."
"Interesting, indeed. Just how formidable is this Ultimate Douluo's first disciple?"
On the tournament stage, Huo Yu'er was blissfully unaware of the waves she'd stirred among the factions. She had resolved to follow her master's plan, but anxiety still tugged at her heart she was only thirteen, after all.
Luckily, the ever outgoing Tang Ya was there to lift her spirits, patting her reassuringly on the shoulder. "Relax, little Yu'er. We all believe in your strength. Just go out there and knock them flat don't think too much about it."
"Yes, I understand, Sister Ya," Huo Yu'er replied, nodding as if to reinforce her own resolve.
The cooler headed Jiang Nannan stepped in, saying, "It's our turn. Let's go."
Though she wouldn't be fighting herself, Jiang Nannan couldn't hide her own excitement; this tournament was a dream come true, something she'd never dared imagine when she was with Shrek. Thanks to Ye Wen, she now had the chance to showcase her strength.
Huo Yu'er's first opponents were from a little known school called Baiye Academy, which specialized in plant based spirits. Looking over their uniforms, green like a forest canopy, Ye Wen couldn't help but think they looked suspiciously like Shrek's academy colors.
As Huo Yu'er and the others stepped onto the stage, the entire stadium fell silent for a moment, and Ye Wen smirked, pleased. This was precisely the reaction he wanted a silent awe evoked by the team's presence.
But soon, the silence gave way to a chorus of cheers. The girls' refined grace, thanks to Ye Wen's guidance and their transformation through celestial herbs, captivated the crowd.
In Shrek's seating area, both Bei Bei and Xu Sanshi's breaths quickened as they beheld the figures they yearned for. Even the usually brazen Ma Xiaotao found herself briefly entranced by their elegance, before averting her gaze with a pang of regret.
"If all his disciples are this beautiful," she muttered, "then I guess I have no chance."
The men of Baiye Academy shook off their initial daze and quickly regained their composure. They knew Tianxing Academy had a powerful reputation, and despite their awe, they weren't about to surrender the match without a fight.
"Both sides, prepare yourselves!" the referee called.
Instantly, the Baiye Academy team activated their martial spirits, entering spirit possession states. Meanwhile, Huo Yu'er and her team stood there, completely still.
This strange sight puzzled both the audience and the referee, who finally frowned and addressed Tianxing's team. "Tianxing Academy, what are you doing? Prepare yourselves I'm about to start the match."
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Chapter 495: A Different Yet Familiar Debut (Part 2)
Huo Yu'er slowly exhaled, her breath visible in the air around her.
"Proceed as usual, referee. This is our team's strategic decision, and we'll bear the consequences," she declared calmly.
Though hesitant, the referee nodded. Such unconventional strategies weren't unheard of in past tournaments. Raising his right hand, he shouted, "Begin!"
But the moment the match started, neither side moved.
The Baiye Academy team found themselves paralyzed not by physical force but by sheer intimidation. Facing off against the infamous Tianxing Academy, they knew they stood no real chance against a team led by a disciple of an Ultimate Douluo. Their only hope was to avoid a humiliating defeat.
Seeing that her opponents weren't attacking, Huo Yu'er paused as well, surprised by their cautious stance. She had feared a sudden offensive, but this gave her the opportunity to prepare without interference.
The rest of her team shared a knowing look, then quietly took three steps backward, leaving the arena and drawing gasps from the crowd. Tianxing Academy's unconventional strategy mystified everyone in attendance, as they struggled to understand the tactic.
Emperor Xu Jiawei couldn't resist leaning forward to question Ye Wen. "Lord Tianxing, what are they planning?"
Ye Wen gave a subtle smile, never taking his eyes off the arena. "Just wait, Your Majesty. My disciple is about to demonstrate her skill."
Down on the field, Huo Yu'er's demeanor had shifted. Her initially composed expression turned glacial, embodying a goddess untouched by mortal concerns. She radiated a chilling aura that, despite the distance, sent a shiver down Ma Xiaotao's spine.
This caught the attention of Shrek Academy's supervising teacher, Wang Yan, who noticed Ma Xiaotao's reaction. "Is something wrong, Xiaotao?"
Her gaze fixed on Huo Yu'er, Ma Xiaotao replied in a low voice, "It's...Extreme Ice."
Wang Yan's eyes widened in shock, and he immediately focused on Huo Yu'er. In an age before dragon spirits became dominant, extreme elemental spirits reigned supreme among martial spirits, embodying an unrivaled strength among soul masters.
This revelation left Wang Yan torn between admiration and regret. He knew that Huo Yu'er had been a student at Shrek Academy, yet her talent had been left undiscovered, only to be nurtured by none other than an Ultimate Douluo. If her potential had been recognized earlier, Shrek would never have let her go. "It seems Ultimate Douluos really do have an eye for talent," he thought bitterly.
In Shrek Academy's area, all eyes were fixed on Huo Yu'er. Tang Wulin, his gaze particularly intense, felt a pang of regret. If he had recognized Huo Yu'er's value sooner, he would have treated her with the respect and consideration she deserved. Losing such a remarkable girl filled him with frustration.
Still, recalling his status as a child of destiny, Tang Wulin clenched his fists, confidence filling him again. "Just wait, Huo Yu'er. I'll prove myself to you and make you my partner."
Suddenly, an awe inspiring transformation occurred. Huo Yu'er's soft, cerulean hair turned snowy white, her golden eyes veiled in frost, as an ethereal chill spread across the arena. Draped in an elegant white cloak, she appeared every bit a goddess descended to earth.
Baiye Academy's team shivered under her gaze, their breaths visible in the frigid air. Though she hadn't attacked, their plant based martial spirits naturally recoiled in the face of her ice attribute.
"Captain… do you feel like your spirit is trembling?" one team member stammered, voicing what they all felt.
The Baiye captain swallowed, trying to keep calm. Despite his Soul King level strength, his martial spirit was terrified, wilting in the face of Huo Yu'er's overwhelming presence. "She's strong… we'll just try not to lose too badly," he muttered to his teammates, forcing a smile as he pondered the least humiliating way to concede defeat.
But then, something else caught his attention, and he dropped his defensive stance in shock. Amid the swirling frost, a crimson light glowed like ink spilled across white parchment.
"Impossible…" he whispered.
In the audience, those who understood the significance of the red light stood abruptly, straining to confirm what their eyes were telling them. Even Emperor Xu was wide eyed, leaning toward Ye Wen in disbelief.
"Lord Tianxing… is that… a 100,000 year spirit ring?"
Ye Wen's smile remained, but he corrected the emperor's assumption. "No, Your Majesty. The 100,000 year spirit ring you speak of is unique. When a spirit beast reaches the 200,000 year mark, ascending to the rank of a Savage Beast, its spirit ring gains gold marks indicating its true power. So, this isn't just a 100,000 year ring."
As comprehension dawned, Emperor Xu's shock only grew. "But… but there are seven gold marks on that ring!"
As the emperor's voice grew shrill, Ye Wen chuckled softly, almost to himself. "That's correct, Your Majesty. My disciple's spirit ring was granted by a 700,000 year old Savage Beast, none other than the Snow Empress, sovereign of the Great Star Dou Forest's icy northern reaches."
The emperor, wide eyed and gaping, could scarcely process what he had heard. "You mean… the third most powerful Savage Beast… the Snow Empress?"
(To be continued…)
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