Xu Jiawei waved his hand, and the Title Douluos surrounding Chi Yuan withdrew their auras and returned to his side.
Seeing that Chi Yuan bore no hostility, they let out a sigh of relief. After all, this was the capital of the Star Luo Empire—right in the imperial palace. If a fight were to break out here, it would only bring loss to the empire. It was best not to engage if it could be avoided.
Whatever her purpose, as long as Red Kite didn't resort to violence, things could be negotiated.
Chi Yuan glanced indifferently at the retreating Title Douluos. They were no match for her, so she didn't take them seriously. But she hadn't come here to cause trouble.
Looking straight into Xu Jiawei's eyes,
Chi yuan said,"Your Majesty, I come with no ill intent. I merely wish to take this child as my disciple."
"Take a disciple—?"
Xu Jiawei and the others exchanged looks, all seeing the same astonishment in one another's eyes.
Shattered Star Douluo's expression shifted, and he immediately sent Xu Jiawei a voice transmission.
"Your Majesty, this Chi Yuan Douluo is a lone cultivator—no family, no sect, never involved in the power struggles of the continent. She's a recluse, living deep in the mountains. Many forces have tried to recruit her over the years, but most never even got to see her face. This is a rare opportunity. If we can draw her into our Star Luo Empire, it would be a huge boon. I can sense it—she's stronger than I am. At least a rank-97 Super Douluo. If we could convince her to join the Worship Hall, she'd be a powerful trump card for us."
Xu Jiawei's eyes flickered. He was indeed tempted. Who could turn down the allegiance of a Super Douluo?
He stepped forward and said,"Chi Yuan Douluo, for you to wish to take this child as your disciple—what an honor for him indeed. However, both his parents are disciples of my Xingguan Sect, so he too, by rights, belongs to our sect. I can allow this apprenticeship… but I have one condition."
Chi Yuan frowned slightly. "Oh? What condition?"
"As long as Chi Yuan Douluo agrees to join our Star Luo Empire's Worship Hall, then we shall be like family, and none will oppose your taking him as a disciple."
"Join the Worship Hall of Star Luo Empire?" Chi Yuan raised a brow, feigning hesitation. "You know I've always been a wanderer. I've never joined any faction."
"She didn't say no!"
Xu Jiawei's heart surged with hope. As long as there was the slightest chance, negotiations could continue. Her hesitation only meant their offer wasn't good enough yet.
"You need only join in name," Xu Jiawei quickly added.
"I guarantee we won't restrict your freedom. All we ask is that if our empire ever faces a dire crisis, you lend your aid."
Chi Yuan folded her arms and thought for a moment, then finally nodded.
"Very well. I'm willing to join the Worship Hall in name only and offer assistance when the Star Luo Empire is in peril. But on ordinary days, I will only be responsible for instructing this child and ensuring his safety. I won't concern myself with anything else."
"Agreed! It's a deal." Xu Jiawei answered without hesitation, overjoyed.
He had been struggling with the issue of who could protect Ji Lin. Title Douluos had to remain stationed in the capital and couldn't be bodyguards. A Soul Douluo might handle common dangers—but Ji Lin was the bearer of an extreme martial spirit. The threats he'd face wouldn't be something a Soul Douluo could handle.
Now, a Super Douluo had basically delivered herself to his doorstep to act as Ji Lin's protector. Xu Jiawei couldn't help but wonder if Ji Lin was actually some sort of chosen child of destiny.
Ji Lin, if he knew what Xu Jiawei was thinking, would definitely roll his eyes.
"I'm not some child of destiny... but sorry, I've got hacks."
"Now then, little Ji Lin," Xu Jiawei asked gently, "Do you wish to take Red Kite Douluo as your teacher?"
Since this was a significant moment, he had to ask for the child's consent. But in truth, who could refuse the chance to study under a Super Douluo?
"I do," Ji Lin replied without hesitation.
He stepped forward and knelt, performing the formal rites of apprenticeship.
As expected, everyone beamed with joy. Xu Jiawei, the elders, and even Xu Jiuyou looked pleased, her eyes filled with happiness for Ji Lin.
Chi Yuan stepped forward and helped Ji Lin up, gently brushing the dust from his clothes.
"Good. From this day on, you are my disciple. I will do everything I can to help you become the strongest soul master."
Her red eyes locked with his, every word firm and serious.
"Wonderful! Truly a day of double celebration!" Xu Jiawei exclaimed.
"Little Ji Lin awakened his martial spirit today, and now all of this—he must be tired. Jiuyou, take him and Chi Yuan Douluo to a palace residence to rest. I'm sure the new master and disciple have much to talk about. We'll leave you now. Come, my fellow elders—Chi Yuan Douluo, we take our leave."
With that, Xu Jiawei and the Worship Hall elders departed. All was well—except for Cheng Gang, who had suffered alone, achieving a one-man tragedy.
On their way out, they also retrieved the injured Cheng Gang. With Medical Immortal Douluo present, such minor wounds were of no concern.
"Congratulations, little Lin!"
Xu Jiuyou beamed as she clung to Ji Lin's arm.
"This way, Your Grace," she said to Chi Yuan. "I'll show you and Ji Lin to your quarters."
The three walked through the palace grounds. Ji Lin glanced at the bouncing, cheerful Xu Jiuyou ahead and couldn't help but smile warmly. He could tell she was genuinely happy for him—happier than he was himself.
They arrived at the doors of a majestic palace. Towering ancient trees shaded the grounds. Red walls, yellow tiles—luxurious and grand.
Inside, sunlight streamed in through the windows, casting a golden glow across the room. The air smelled fresh, and everything was immaculately clean. Even the bedding was high-grade, soft, and inviting.
Xu Jiuyou turned to Chi Yuan with a respectful tone,"This is the place, Chi Yuan Douluo. I hope it meets your expectations."
"The environment here is excellent—far better than my mountaintop. There's nothing to complain about." Red Kite replied with a gentle smile. She had a good impression of the princess. Anyone who genuinely cared for the young master was someone she liked.
"I'm glad. Then I won't disturb you further." Xu Jiuyou bowed and left.
Before departing, she told Ji Lin that she had already arranged for his personal belongings to be brought over—he didn't need to return for them.
As she disappeared from view, Ji Lin stretched and gave Chi Yuan a look. She understood at once and released her spiritual power, which enveloped the entire room.
"Young Master, I've sealed the space. No one can hear our conversation now."
"All right, Chi Yuan. No need to call me 'Young Master' anymore. You're my teacher now—just call me A-Lin."
"Very well, A-Lin."
Chi Yuan nodded obediently.