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Chapter 86 Zhao Tiezhu's Luck
Yun Wuyai led Ning Rongrong through the crowd, his eyes glancing to the side every now and then.
"Um... junior, how did you and Brother Chu meet?" he asked casually.
Ning Rongrong didn't even glance at him, continuing on her way: "What business is it of yours to interfere in my affairs?"
"Oh, I'm just concerned about my junior." Yun Wuyai quickened his pace to catch up, his face full of smiles. "I just think Brother Chu is too unfair. He already has Dugu Yan and Ye Lingling, yet he's still flirting around with other women."
"Stop!" Ning Rongrong turned around abruptly, her pink skirt tracing an arc.
She tilted her head up, her eyes flashing with a dangerous light: "Try saying another bad word about Brother Xinghe?"
Yun Wuyai immediately raised his hands in surrender: "Misunderstanding, misunderstanding! I was just standing up for you, junior!"
He thought to himself: Oh no, this girl is even more poisoned than Dugu Yan and Ye Lingling. What kind of magic does that bastard Chu Xinghe have?
As I turned the corner of the teaching building, I bumped into Yu Tianheng.
Upon seeing Ning Rongrong's exquisite face, Yu Tianheng's eyes lit up. He straightened his collar and strode forward: "This junior sister looks unfamiliar. I am Yu Tianheng, a direct descendant of the Blue Lightning Tyrannosaurus Clan, and a level 35 Power Attack-type Soul Master."
He bowed slightly, revealing a confident smile.
Yun Wuyai's eyes darted around, and he deliberately raised his voice: "Oh, isn't this Brother Tianheng? Let me introduce you. This is Miss Ning Rongrong from the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School. She came to the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy because of Chu Xinghe."
"Shut up!" Yu Tianheng's expression changed drastically, and he took two steps back like a cat whose tail had been stepped on.
With a gloomy face, he forced out a few words through gritted teeth: "Farewell."
After saying that, he turned and left, his steps as fast as if he were running for his life.
Ning Rongrong tilted her head, watching Yu Tianheng's disheveled figure with great interest: "What's wrong with this guy? Did Brother Xinghe beat him up?"
Yun Wuyai leaned closer to her and lowered his voice mysteriously: "It's more than just beating him up. Last year, for Dugu Yan, they fought in the arena, and Brother Chu beat Yu Tianheng so badly that he knelt down and begged for mercy. Ever since then, this young master of the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon family has avoided any woman associated with Brother Chu."
"Interesting…" Ning Rongrong stroked her hair, a sly glint in her eyes.
A mischievous smile crept onto her lips: "Looks like I need to think of a way to get Brother Xinghe to fight for me too."
...
On the other side, the midday sun shone directly on the main gate of the Heaven Dou Royal Academy, and Chu Xinghe finally saw that familiar figure.
Zhao Tiezhu arrived travel-worn, a simple and honest smile on his dark face.
"Brother Xinghe, I'm really sorry, the carriage broke down on the way, which delayed us until now." Zhao Tiezhu scratched his head, his voice loud and clear.
Chu Xinghe stepped forward and patted him on the shoulder: "Brother Zhao, it's alright, it's good that you're here."
Dugu Yan stood aside, carefully examining the man whom Chu Xinghe called "Brother Zhao".
Zhao Tiezhu was burly and wore simple coarse cloth clothes; he looked like an ordinary soul master.
She couldn't help but nod inwardly; Chu Xinghe was indeed loyal and righteous, still showing such respect to his former companions.
"Brother Zhao, let me introduce you." Chu Xinghe stepped aside to show her, "This is Dugu Yan, and this is Ye Lingling. They are both my girlfriends."
Dugu Yan smiled and bowed gracefully, saying, "Hello, Brother Zhao."
Ye Lingling also bowed slightly, her voice soft: "Hello, Brother Zhao."
Zhao Tiezhu was immediately at a loss, his dark face turning bright red: "This, this can't be done..."
He never expected that two such outstanding female soul masters would call him "Brother Zhao" along with Chu Xinghe.
Chu Xinghe explained with a smile, "Brother Zhao's martial spirit was originally an Ironclad Rhinoceros. After consuming the Grade 9 Purple Ganoderma I gave him, it mutated into a Purple Crystal Ironclad Rhinoceros. He is now a Level 27 Defense-type Battle Spirit Master."
"It's all thanks to Brother Xinghe's cultivation," Zhao Tiezhu said gratefully. "If it weren't for that Grade 9 Purple Ganoderma, I probably wouldn't have been able to break through to Level 25 by now."
Upon hearing this, Dugu Yan cast an admiring glance at Chu Xinghe.
She knew how precious the ninth-grade purple fungus was, and that Chu Xinghe was willing to give it to such an ordinary soul master showed his sincerity.
Next, Chu Xinghe took Zhao Tiezhu to participate in the entrance examination.
"Let's go, Brother Zhao, the assessment site is just ahead." Chu Xinghe smiled slightly as he met Dugu Yan's gaze, and naturally patted Zhao Tiezhu's broad shoulder. "The entrance assessment mainly tests the quality of the martial soul and the ability to withstand pressure with soul power. With the foundation laid by the ninth-grade purple fungus, there will be no problem."
Zhao Tiezhu nervously rubbed his rough hands together, his voice trembling slightly: "Brother Xinghe, using such a valuable item on me..."
"No matter how expensive the medicinal herbs are, they're still inanimate objects." Chu Xinghe waved his hand dismissively. "But you, you'd better make me proud later."
He winked at Dugu Yan, "Otherwise, Sister Yan will say I have bad taste."
Dugu Yan gave a soft snort and turned her face away, but the corners of her mouth turned up slightly.
Zhao Tiezhu nervously rubbed his hands: "Brother Xinghe, I'm still not sure..."
"What's there to be afraid of?" Chu Xinghe laughed heartily. "The Purple Crystal Ironclad Rhinoceros is a top-tier defensive martial soul. Passing this test will be very easy."
On the examination field of the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy, Qin Ming stood with his hands behind his back, scrutinizing Zhao Tiezhu with sharp eyes.
"Release your martial spirit," Qin Ming said in a deep voice.
Zhao Tiezhu took a deep breath, and the phantom of the Amethyst Ironclad Rhinoceros appeared behind him, with two yellow soul rings slowly rising.
"Soul power level 27?" Qin Ming raised an eyebrow slightly. "Let's begin."
The pressure of soul power surged in like a tidal wave, and Zhao Tiezhu's knees creaked under the strain.
"Level 27!"
"Level 28!"
"..."
When the pressure reached level thirty-two, Zhao Tiezhu trembled violently, yet he gritted his teeth and kept his spine straight. Sweat soaked his back, forming a small puddle on the ground.
"That's enough." Sensing that Zhao Tiezhu had reached his limit, Qin Ming withdrew his oppressive aura. "Pass the test and report to the special training class tomorrow."
Chu Xinghe stepped forward and patted Zhao Tiezhu on the shoulder: "Brother Zhao, you did well. Keep up the good work in the next year, and maybe you can represent the academy in the Soul Master Competition."
Zhao Tiezhu's eyes were slightly red, and his voice choked with emotion: "Brother Xinghe, if it weren't for you, I'm afraid..."
"We're brothers, let's not talk about these things." Chu Xinghe interrupted him with a smile, "Come on, let me show you around the academy."
Chu Xinghe led Zhao Tiezhu around the academy, showing him different parts of the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy.
...
As evening fell, the aroma of food wafted from Chu Xinghe's villa.
Dugu Yan, wearing an apron, was busy at the stove, while Ye Lingling quietly set out the tableware.
"Brother Zhao, don't be shy." Chu Xinghe placed a jar of wine on the table. "Let's have a good drink tonight, brothers."
Zhao Tiezhu rubbed his hands together: "I promised to treat you, I feel so bad..."
"There will be plenty of opportunities in the future." Dugu Yan walked over with the dishes, a rare gentle smile on her face.
The four sat around a table, Chu Xinghe and Zhao Tiezhu clinking glasses and talking about their past at Zhan Kuang Academy, recalling Zhan Tiankuang's harsh training of them.
Ye Lingling kept refilling their drinks, and although Dugu Yan complained, she quietly cooked two more dishes to go with the drinks.
After several rounds of drinks, Zhao Tiezhu stood at the villa entrance, the night breeze brushing his face, still feeling somewhat unreal.
Six months ago, he was just an ordinary Soul Master worrying about how to get into the Heaven Dou Royal Academy, but now he is a student in the special training class of the Heaven Dou Royal Academy.
All these changes stemmed from the boy he met at the War Maniac Academy.
He glanced back at the brightly lit villa, a wave of emotion washing over him.
Being able to meet Chu Xinghe before he rose to prominence was perhaps the greatest fortune of his life.
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Chapter 87 The Crazy Little Witch
The next day, at the simulated training area of the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy.
Ning Rongrong stood at the entrance of the simulated training area, her pink skirt swaying gently in the breeze.
She held a delicate jade box in her hands, her eyes glancing frequently toward the end of the road.
"This time I must succeed..." she muttered to herself.
Not far away, Yun Wuyai hid behind a pillar, cold sweat beading on his forehead.
He dared not offend the little princess of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School, and he was also afraid that Chu Xinghe would find out that he was helping Chu Xinghe pursue him.
Yesterday, Ning Rongrong threatened him that if he didn't provide Chu Xinghe's itinerary, she would let him experience the consequences of being targeted by the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School.
"Coming, coming!" Yun Wuyai saw the figure approaching from afar, quickly gestured to Ning Rongrong, and then disappeared in a flash.
Chu Xinghe appeared at the entrance to the training area on time, as always.
He was dressed in a black outfit today, which made his figure look even more upright.
When he saw Ning Rongrong standing in the middle of the road, he visibly paused.
"Brother Xinghe! What a coincidence!" Ning Rongrong ran up to him, a sweet smile blooming on her face. "I was just about to go to the simulation training area to familiarize myself with the environment."
Chu Xinghe nodded politely: "Good morning, Miss Ning."
After saying that, he was about to walk past her and continue forward.
"Wait!" Ning Rongrong hurriedly stopped him, holding up the jade box like a treasure, "I heard you're researching fire-attribute soul skills, so I found a Blazing Fire Crystal in the sect's treasury..."
The moment the jade box was opened, a scorching heat rushed out.
The fist-sized red crystal shimmered with a captivating light in the sunlight, its interior seemingly filled with flowing flames. This was indeed a rare fire-attribute treasure.
A hint of surprise flashed in Chu Xinghe's eyes, but he quickly regained his composure: "Thank you for your kindness, Miss Ning, but this is too much."
"It's not valuable at all!" Ning Rongrong said eagerly, "Anyway, no one in our sect would use it, so why not..."
"Instead of what? Instead of giving it to your future husband?" A cold voice came from behind.
Dugu Yan appeared behind the two of them at some point, her purple cheongsam outlining her perfect curves, and a dangerous flame flickering in her emerald eyes.
Standing beside her was Ye Lingling, a girl in a light blue dress who was as quiet as a painting, but her eyes were sharper than usual.
Ning Rongrong instinctively took a half step back, but quickly straightened her back: "I just..."
"But what?" Dugu Yan snatched the jade box and slammed the lid shut. "The little princess of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School, blocking the boys' way to cultivation early in the morning, aren't you afraid of being laughed at?"
Ning Rongrong's face flushed red: "You...you have no right to interfere!"
"Sister Yan Yan." Ye Lingling gently tugged at Dugu Yan's sleeve, her voice soft yet carrying an undeniable firmness, "We should go and cultivate."
Dugu Yan snorted and shoved the jade box back into Ning Rongrong's hand: "Take your treasure home and play with it, little girl."
Watching the three figures leave, Ning Rongrong stomped her feet in anger.
She stared at the jade box in her hand, then suddenly slammed it to the ground: "Chu Xinghe! You just wait!"
The fiery crystal rolled out of the broken jade box, gleaming angrily in the sunlight.
In the following days, Ning Rongrong appeared around Chu Xinghe even more frequently.
Canteen, library, training ground...
She always managed to find various reasons to get close to Chu Xinghe.
Dugu Yan and Ye Lingling were like two shadows, always protecting Chu Xinghe.
"This can't go on." One evening, Dugu Yan said to Ye Lingling in the girls' dormitory, "That girl is getting more and more outrageous."
Ye Lingling was sorting through the medicinal herbs when she heard this and looked up: "Xinghe is also troubled."
"Troublesome?" Dugu Yan sneered. "I think he's enjoying it! This afternoon at the library, when Ning Rongrong pretended to fall and throw herself into his arms, he didn't immediately dodge away!"
Ye Lingling was arranging the ingredients when she heard this and looked up: "Rongrong is just too young. She's blinded by the brilliance of the starry sky."
"You're actually speaking up for her?" Dugu Yan looked at Ye Lingling in disbelief. "She's trying to steal your sweetheart."
As Ye Lingling cut the Soft Bone Rabbit into pieces, she said, "I don't hate her, but I don't want her to disturb Xinghe's life either."
Dugu Yan stared at Ye Lingling for a long time, then suddenly laughed: "You are too kind. But that's fine, I'll play the villain."
The next day was the college's monthly school-wide assembly.
All the trainees gathered in the main square, and Chu Xinghe, as the representative of the special training class, was required to speak on stage.
Ning Rongrong had already secured a front-row seat.
She dressed up specially today, wearing a pink dress embroidered with delicate patterns, and her hair adorned with gemstone hair ornaments unique to the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School.
Yun Wuyai, sitting beside her, was restless, wiping the cold sweat from his forehead from time to time.
"Are you sure this will work?" Yun Wuyai asked in a low voice.
Ning Rongrong confidently raised her chin: "Just wait and see."
As Chu Xinghe stepped onto the platform to begin his speech, Ning Rongrong suddenly stood up, pretended to trip, and lunged forward.
"ah!"
Her scream was particularly jarring in the quiet venue, and Chu Xinghe almost reflexively reached out to catch her.
A purple figure flashed past like lightning. At the critical moment, Dugu Yan stood in front of Chu Xinghe and grabbed Ning Rongrong's wrist.
"Using the same move twice, don't you find it boring?" Dugu Yan sneered.
A flicker of panic crossed Ning Rongrong's eyes, but she quickly regained her composure: "I just... slipped..."
"Really?" Dugu Yan tightened her grip slightly. "Then what is this?"
She pulled a slip of paper from Ning Rongrong's sleeve, on which was written, "Brother Xinghe, if you catch me, you have to take responsibility for me~".
The entire audience erupted in uproar.
Ning Rongrong's face flushed bright red instantly, but then turned pale with anger: "Give it back to me!"
"Enough!" Dugu Yan's eyes gleamed with a green light. "It seems you won't stop until I teach you a lesson..."
"Sister Yan Yan!" Ye Lingling suddenly stepped forward and gently pressed Dugu Yan's shoulder. "Don't do this..."
She turned to Ning Rongrong, her voice gentle yet firm: "Rongrong, feelings can't be forced. Xinghe already has us; you'll only embarrass yourself by doing this."
Ning Rongrong's eyes were filled with tears: "You...you all..."
Chu Xinghe then walked over, his expression serious: "Miss Ning, please stop now. I appreciate your favor, but my heart can no longer accommodate anyone else."
Looking at the three people in front of her, Ning Rongrong suddenly felt an unprecedented sense of loneliness.
She bit her lip, turned around, and ran out of the venue.
Yun Wuyai hesitated for a moment, but still chased after her: "Junior Sister Rongrong! Wait for me!"
The meeting ended in discord.
After the crowd dispersed, Chu Xinghe breathed a sigh of relief and turned to face his two girlfriends.
"I'm sorry to have worried you."
Dugu Yan snorted coldly: "Good that you know! Next time I see you being soft-hearted towards her..."
"No, I won't." Chu Xinghe grasped her hand, then looked at Ye Lingling. "Especially after seeing how Lingling spoke up for me today, how could I dare to do that again?"
Ye Lingling blushed slightly, lowered her head and whispered, "I just... I just don't want to see anyone get hurt, including Rongrong..."
Chu Xinghe felt a warmth in his heart and gently embraced the two girls: "Don't worry, I will handle this matter."
On the distant tower, Ning Fengzhi watched this scene quietly, a complex emotion flashing in his eyes.
Standing beside him, Sword Douluo Chen Xin snorted coldly and asked in a low voice, "Feng Zhi, how dare Chu Xinghe treat Rongrong like that? Should we teach him a lesson?"
Ning Fengzhi shook his head: "Let Rongrong experience these things herself. It may not be a bad thing for her."
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Chapter 88 Chu Xinghe's Solution
The afternoon sun shone on the corridor of the college garden, and Chu Xinghe found Ning Rongrong admiring the flowers among the blossoms.
"Rongrong, is it convenient for us to talk?" Chu Xinghe asked directly.
Ning Rongrong turned around upon hearing the voice, her pink skirt drawing an elegant arc in the air: "What a rare guest! Brother Xinghe actually took the initiative to come and find me?"
Chu Xinghe's expression turned solemn: "First of all, thank you for your favor. But..."
"But what?" Ning Rongrong suddenly interrupted, raising her chin slightly. "But you already have someone you love, don't you?"
"That's right." Chu Xinghe readily admitted, "My relationship with Dugu Yan and Ye Lingling is very stable."
Ning Rongrong scoffed lightly, casually toying with the petals with her fingertips: "So what? I, Ning Rongrong, have never failed to get what I want."
Chu Xinghe rubbed his temples, his tone tinged with weariness: "Rongrong, your behavior has seriously interfered with my life and cultivation."
"Then why not accept my father's suggestion?" A sly glint flashed in Ning Rongrong's eyes. "Join the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School, and I guarantee the school will spare no effort in nurturing you."
"I've come today to ask for your help," Chu Xinghe said, changing the subject. "Could you arrange a meeting with Sect Leader Ning for me? I have important matters to discuss tomorrow."
Ning Rongrong's eyes lit up: "What, you've finally figured it out?"
"There are just some important matters that need to be discussed," Chu Xinghe replied, avoiding the main point.
Ning Rongrong twirled triumphantly, her skirt blooming like a flower: "I knew no one could refuse me. Tomorrow at noon, I'll make sure my father is there on time."
Chu Xinghe nodded slightly: "Thank you."
After saying that, he turned and left.
Watching Chu Xinghe's receding figure, Ning Rongrong's lips curled into a confident smile.
In her view, this was undoubtedly a signal that Chu Xinghe had finally given in and was preparing to marry into the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School.
She gently stroked her hair and murmured to herself, "Indeed, even the proudest man cannot escape my grasp."
From the shadows of the trees in the distance, Dugu Yan and Ye Lingling took in the entire scene.
Dugu Yan's knuckles turned white from clenching her fists: "That arrogant girl who doesn't know her place..."
Ye Lingling gently pressed her wrist: "I believe Xinghe can handle it."
...
As the last rays of the setting sun fell, the Ice and Fire Yin-Yang Eyes emitted a magnificent halo in the twilight, reflecting on Chu Xinghe's focused profile.
He deftly brushed aside the soil with his fingertips, carefully removed the beautiful tulip, and then gently sealed it into a jade box.
"Grandpa, I plan to donate this immortal herb to the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect," Chu Xinghe said calmly.
Dugu Bo's brows furrowed suddenly: "Xinghe, do you really intend to do this?"
"This is the best option at present." Chu Xinghe put away the jade box, his gaze steady. "It can not only establish a good relationship with the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School, but also completely resolve Ning Rongrong's matter."
Dugu Bo sighed heavily, a hint of resentment flashing in his eyes: "It's all my fault for being too weak. If I had the cultivation of a Sword Douluo, why would you have to suffer such injustice?"
Chu Xinghe shook his head, his expression frank: "Grandpa, you flatter us. The Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School has a profound foundation, and we do need to be cautious."
"But that girl is so persistent!" Dugu Bo clenched his fists, his knuckles turning white, his eyes surging with anger. "If it weren't for the two Title Douluos of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School, I would definitely teach her a lesson about knowing when to stop!"
"Grandpa, there's no need to blame yourself." Chu Xinghe's gaze was firm and his tone was steady. "Temporary concessions are not signs of weakness, but rather a means to achieve better development in the future."
Dugu Bo gazed at him, his cold and stern face gradually softening: "Xinghe, I am very pleased that you can consider the big picture so much. It is Yanyan's blessing to have met you."
Chu Xinghe smiled slightly, a gentle smile appearing in his eyes: "It is my honor to have Grandpa's approval."
Dugu Bo patted him on the shoulder, his tone unusually serious: "Tomorrow you will meet with Ning Fengzhi, and I will accompany you. Although my strength is not comparable to Sword Douluo and Bone Douluo, I am still a Title Douluo, and I should at least support you."
"Thank you, Grandpa." Chu Xinghe bowed solemnly, his eyes filled with gratitude.
As dusk deepened, the two left the Ice and Fire Yin-Yang Eye side by side.
Dugu Bo sighed inwardly, "This boy is resolute and knows how to advance and retreat; he will surely achieve great things in the future."
...
The next day, in a conference room at the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy.
Chu Xinghe and Dugu Bo stood to one side, while Ning Fengzhi and Gu Rong, the Bone Douluo, sat opposite them.
Ning Rongrong stood behind her father, her eyes lit up when she saw Chu Xinghe, and she proudly raised her chin.
"Uncle Ning, it's been a long time." Chu Xinghe smiled and bowed, his tone natural and friendly.
Ning Fengzhi nodded gently: "Xinghe, is there something important that you asked me to come here today?"
Dugu Bo stood beside Chu Xinghe, his gaze sweeping warily over the ancient banyan tree.
Gu Rong crossed his arms and looked Chu Xinghe up and down with sharp eyes, as if assessing something.
Ning Rongrong couldn't help but interject, "Dad, Brother Xinghe must have figured it out and wants to join our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School!"
Chu Xinghe didn't respond to her words, but instead looked at Ning Fengzhi: "Uncle Ning, I have a magical herb that can evolve the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Pagoda into the Nine Treasures Glazed Tile Pagoda."
Ning Fengzhi tapped his fingers lightly on the table, his brows furrowing slightly: "Xinghe, are you sure? This is no small matter."
"I can guarantee it," Chu Xinghe said firmly, "this immortal herb truly has this effect."
Gu Rong sneered, "Boy, do you know what the consequences will be if you deceive the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School?"
Dugu Bo immediately stepped forward: "Old man, are you threatening my grandson-in-law?"
Ning Fengzhi gestured to Gu Rong to calm down, then looked at Chu Xinghe seriously: "If it's really as you say, what do you want?"
Chu Xinghe took a deep breath: "I just hope that Rongrong can treat me as an ordinary friend in the future and stop doing those troubling things."
The meeting room fell silent instantly.
Gu Rong stared wide-eyed, her face filled with disbelief.
Ning Rongrong's face turned pale instantly, and she gripped the hem of her skirt so tightly that her knuckles turned white.
"You..." Her voice trembled slightly, "Do you hate me that much? You'd rather use such a precious herb to push me away?"
Chu Xinghe shook his head: "It's not that I dislike you, it's just that I already have someone in my heart and I don't want to hold you back."
Ning Fengzhi pondered for a moment and nodded: "This request is very simple. Rongrong will not bother you again in the future."
"Dad!" Ning Rongrong's eyes reddened.
"It's settled then." Ning Fengzhi's tone left no room for argument.
Chu Xinghe didn't say anything more and opened the jade box.
A peculiar herb appeared before everyone's eyes. On its vine-like stem, a golden tulip bloomed, exuding a noble aura amidst its rich fragrance.
The moment Ning Fengzhi saw the Qiluo Tulip, his pupils contracted slightly. He could feel his Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda Martial Soul resonating intensely.
"This magical herb…" His voice was a little strained.
Chu Xinghe explained, "Uncle Ning, this immortal herb can indeed evolve the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda. However..."
He paused, then added, "The younger the person taking it, the better the effect."
Gu Rong narrowed his eyes: "Kid, are you sure?"
"I can guarantee it," Chu Xinghe said seriously, "If Uncle Ning takes it, it can evolve into the Eight Treasures Glazed Tile Pagoda. But if Rongrong takes it, it should be able to evolve into the Nine Treasures Glazed Tile Pagoda."
Ning Fengzhi took a deep breath, suppressing the urge to immediately consume the immortal herb.
He turned to look at his daughter, his eyes filled with complex emotions.
"Dad…" Ning Rongrong nervously clutched the hem of her clothes.
After a brief silence, Ning Fengzhi made a decision: "Rongrong, you take it."
Ning Rongrong hesitated and said, "But Dad, breaking through to level 80 has always been your dream."
"The Nine-Treasure Glazed Pagoda is the future of the sect," Ning Fengzhi said firmly. "Eat it."
Under everyone's watchful eyes, Ning Rongrong carefully accepted the Qiluo Tulip.
The herb melted instantly upon entering her mouth, and her entire body was immediately enveloped in golden light.
Ning Fengzhi and Gu Rong stood guard nervously by their side, while Chu Xinghe and Dugu Bo stepped aside.
Three hours later, the light gradually faded.
Ning Rongrong opened her eyes, and a crystal-clear pagoda appeared in her palm. Originally seven stories, it now had nine.
"The Nine-Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda!" Ning Fengzhi's voice trembled with excitement. "It really is the Nine-Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda!"
Gu Rong rarely smiled: "Fengzhi, congratulations. Rongrong, well done."
Ning Fengzhi turned to Chu Xinghe and solemnly said, "Xinghe, the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School will always remember this kindness."
He took out a gold card and said, "Here is one million gold soul coins. It's just a small token of our appreciation."
Chu Xinghe accepted the gift readily: "Thank you, Uncle Ning. I haven't finished my daily cultivation for today, so I'll take my leave now."
Ning Fengzhi nodded: "If you need anything in the future, just come to me."
As they walked out of the conference room, Dugu Bo couldn't help but ask, "Are we just leaving like this?"
Chu Xinghe smiled and said, "Everything that needed to be done has been done. What's the point of keeping it all here?"
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Chapter 89 Ordinary Friend Ning Rongrong
Only after Chu Xinghe's figure disappeared at the end of the corridor did Ning Rongrong recover from the shock of her martial soul's evolution.
She looked down at the shimmering nine-jeweled glazed pagoda in her palm, a bitter feeling rising in her heart.
"Father…" Ning Rongrong bit her lip lightly, "Do I really not want to get close to Chu Xinghe anymore?"
She originally thought she was just unwilling to accept being rejected and wanted to tease Chu Xinghe.
But at this moment, when he knew for certain that there was no longer any possibility between them, the sense of loss that welled up in his heart was so real.
This bittersweet feeling made her realize that, perhaps without her noticing, she had already fallen deeply in love with that boy.
Ning Fengzhi stroked his daughter's hair, a knowing glint in his eyes: "Silly girl, I only promised not to let you do those outrageous things again."
He smiled meaningfully, "Wouldn't it be better to get along as friends?"
Ning Rongrong suddenly looked up, the gloom in her eyes vanishing instantly: "Father means..."
"A gradual approach is the best strategy." Ning Fengzhi gently patted his daughter's shoulder. "The successor of the Nine Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda, are you afraid that you can't win the heart of a young man?"
Ning Rongrong's eyes regained their sparkle. She clenched her fists and a confident smile bloomed on her face: "Father is right! I will let Chu Xinghe know that I, Ning Rongrong, am the most suitable person for him!"
Watching his daughter's joyful departing figure, Ning Fengzhi shook his head and chuckled, "This girl has finally come to her senses."
Ning Rongrong walked briskly down the corridor, her skirt swaying gently with each step.
A sly glint flashed in her eyes as she began to devise a brand new "strategy" in her mind.
"This time, I'm determined to show Chu Xinghe the most perfect version of me." She clenched her small fist and made up her mind.
Once Ning Rongrong's footsteps had completely disappeared at the end of the corridor, Ning Fengzhi raised his hand and set up a soul power barrier to ensure that there was no one else around.
The conference room fell silent.
"Feng Zhi, do you really value that kid that much?" Bone Douluo Gu Rong frowned, his deep voice echoing within the barrier, "He rejected Rong Rong right in front of us."
Ning Fengzhi tapped the table lightly with his fingertips, his gaze profound: "Uncle Bone, an eleven-year-old Soul Master, crushing Blue Lightning Tyrannosaurus Rex at the same level, how many such talents have you ever seen?"
Gu Rong was taken aback upon hearing this, and a familiar figure flashed through her mind: "You mean... Tang Hao?"
"Not bad." Ning Fengzhi nodded slightly. "Back then, Tang Hao at his age was no better than this. And…"
He paused for a moment, then said, "Have you ever seen a genius soul master from a commoner background who could refuse the offer from the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School?"
Gu Rong snorted coldly, a hint of disdain flashing in his eyes: "So what if you have high talent? I've seen plenty of geniuses who haven't grown up yet."
"That's precisely why we should make sure Rongrong befriends him." Ning Fengzhi gently stroked his teacup. "Even if they are not destined to marry, gaining the friendship of a future powerhouse will be entirely beneficial to the sect."
Gu Rong remained silent for a moment, then finally shook his head: "Feng Zhi, you're too optimistic. How many of those so-called geniuses died on the way back then?"
Ning Fengzhi put down his teacup and let out a soft sigh: "Uncle Gu, do you think the world of soul masters on the mainland has been too peaceful for the past twenty years?"
Gu Rong frowned and said, "Feng Zhi, what do you mean by that?"
"I remember when I was young, the major families were constantly fighting each other," Ning Fengzhi said slowly. "But now, everything is unusually quiet."
Gu Rong disagreed: "Isn't this a good thing? The Spirit Hall and the three upper sects check and balance each other, and the major forces keep to themselves."
"The problem is that it's too calm." Ning Fengzhi shook his head. "Uncle Gu, don't you think this calmness is unsettling?"
Gu Rong snorted coldly: "I think you're overthinking it. The situation is stable now, and all the major powers are recuperating. Isn't that normal?"
"That would be for the best," Ning Fengzhi said gravely, "but I've recently noticed some unusual signs…"
Gu Rong interrupted, "What signs?"
Ning Fengzhi hesitated for a moment: "It's hard to say right now. But investing in a genius like Chu Xinghe in advance is never a bad idea."
"Just because of your vague premonition?" Gu Rong questioned.
Ning Fengzhi calmly picked up his teacup and took a sip: "Uncle Gu, do you think a young man who can refuse the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School's offer of recruitment is a simple person?"
Gu Rong snorted coldly: "Even if he's a genius, he's just a greenhorn. Rongrong is the apple of our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School's eye."
"That's why I admire Chu Xinghe's choice even more." Ning Fengzhi put down his teacup, making a crisp clinking sound. "He knows what he should and shouldn't have. This kind of mindset is even more precious than talent."
Gu Rong was silent for a moment: "You have always been far-sighted. Now that you have made your decision, I will naturally offer my support."
"Thank you for your understanding, Uncle Gu." Ning Fengzhi smiled slightly. "I believe that Chu Xinghe will definitely bring surprises to the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School in the future."
Gu Rong snorted: "I hope you're right. But if that brat dares to hurt Rongrong, I'll be the first to not let him off the hook."
Ning Fengzhi chuckled: "Uncle Gu still dotes on Rongrong so much."
"Of course," Gu Rong said firmly. "Rongrong is the future of our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School."
...
Since Chu Xinghe gifted the Qiluo Tulip to the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School, Ning Rongrong indeed did not continue to boldly express her love to Chu Xinghe.
Following Ning Fengzhi's advice, Ning Rongrong gradually approached Chu Xinghe as an ordinary classmate.
Half a month later, in the training area of the Heaven Dou Royal Academy, Chu Xinghe had just finished a round of soul power circulation, and fine beads of sweat were still on his forehead.
He opened his eyes and, unsurprisingly, saw Ning Rongrong standing not far away, holding a notebook in her hands.
"Xinghe, may I ask you a question?" Ning Rongrong walked over slowly, her voice gentle, completely different from her usual flamboyant demeanor. "I always feel that the soul power circulation of the Nine Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda is a bit sluggish."
Chu Xinghe sighed inwardly, but remained outwardly calm: "You're too kind, Ning. However, my knowledge of support-type martial souls is limited."
"But your guidance on Zhao Tiezhu's mutated martial soul last time was very effective." A sly glint flashed in Ning Rongrong's eyes, before she regained her gentle demeanor. "It only takes ten minutes."
Just as Chu Xinghe was about to politely decline, a clear voice rang out: "Junior Brother Chu, so you're here."
Xue Qinghe appeared at the entrance of the training area at some point, his white robes making him appear exceptionally gentle and refined.
He approached with a smile: "I happen to have some cultivation-related matters I'd like to discuss with you. Is now a convenient time?"
A hint of displeasure flashed in Ning Rongrong's eyes, but she quickly adjusted her expression: "Crown Prince Brother."
"Rongrong is here too." Xue Qinghe nodded gently, then turned to Chu Xinghe, "Did you find anything useful in that book on soul power compression I gave you last time?"
Chu Xinghe stood up naturally: "I was just about to thank Your Highness for your guidance. Ning, shall we talk again another day?"
Watching the two figures disappear into the distance, Ning Rongrong clenched the notebook in her hand.
At that moment, she felt a sharp gaze and turned to meet Dugu Yan's warning eyes.
"Don't waste your time," Dugu Yan said coldly. "Stop with your tricks."
Ning Rongrong calmly straightened her skirt: "I was just asking about cultivation, why are you so nervous, Senior Sister Dugu?"
She deliberately lowered her voice, "Or are you saying you lack confidence in yourself?"
A glint of green light flashed in Dugu Yan's eyes, and she was about to lash out when Ye Lingling appeared beside her without her noticing and gently pressed her arm: "Sister Yan, Teacher Qin is looking for you."
After Ning Rongrong walked away, Ye Lingling whispered, "Don't fall for her tricks. Xinghe knows what he's doing."
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Chapter 90 Qian Renxue's Little Thoughts
On the forest path behind the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy, Xue Qinghe and Chu Xinghe walked side by side.
A gentle breeze blew by, and Xue Qinghe's white robes swayed gently, displaying royal elegance in every gesture.
"Xinghe, how has your cultivation been lately?" Xue Qinghe asked gently, like an older brother concerned for his younger brother. "My family just acquired two thousand-year-old snow ginsengs, which will be very helpful in breaking through the bottleneck."
Chu Xinghe maintained a just-right distance and bowed slightly: "Your Highness's kindness is appreciated. However, it is best to proceed step by step in cultivation."
A hint of appreciation flashed in Xue Qinghe's eyes, and the corners of her lips lifted slightly: "You are just too cautious."
He suddenly stopped and turned to look directly at Chu Xinghe. "With your talent, you will surely become famous throughout the continent in the future. At that time, the Heavenly Dou Empire will need talents like you."
Chu Xinghe lowered his eyes, concealing the thought in them. The excessive enthusiasm of this "Crown Prince" made him secretly wary.
As the Holy Maiden of the Spirit Hall who has been lurking for many years, Qian Renxue's deliberate approach must have a deeper meaning.
"Your Highness flatters me," Chu Xinghe replied humbly. "This student only wishes to focus on cultivation."
Unbeknownst to them, the two had already walked deep into the back mountain.
The dappled shadows of the trees fell upon them, and Chu Xinghe casually plucked a leaf and twirled it between his fingers.
"Your Highness specifically invited me here today, surely it wasn't just for a walk?"
Xue Qinghe leaned against an ancient tree, sunlight filtering through the branches and leaves, casting dappled patterns of light on his handsome face.
"Xinghe is indeed perceptive." He smiled slightly. "I'm just curious, what are your plans for the future, given your talent?"
Chu Xinghe flicked the leaf into the air, watching it drift away in the wind: "I am just an ordinary student, but Your Highness shoulders the future of the empire."
"An ordinary student?" Xue Qinghe chuckled. "A student who can win the heart of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School's little princess and the unwavering devotion of the Poison Douluo's granddaughter is no ordinary student."
Chu Xinghe remained expressionless: "Your Highness is joking."
"Then let's get down to business." Xue Qinghe suddenly became serious. "What's your opinion on the Spirit Hall?"
Chu Xinghe's gaze was sincere: "The Spirit Hall is of great significance to me. Without their awakening ceremony, I might never have been able to become a Soul Master. During the most difficult times, I also relied on their subsidies to get through the crisis."
"That money all comes from imperial taxes." Xue Qinghe's tone turned cold.
"Then may I ask Your Highness?" Chu Xinghe looked directly into his eyes, "If the Spirit Hall hadn't exerted pressure, would the Empire have proactively provided subsidies to commoner spirit masters?"
Xue Qinghe was silent for a moment: "The Empire will never mistreat those who are truly loyal."
"This is precisely what the Empire needs to learn from the Spirit Hall," Chu Xinghe said firmly. "Breaking the sect monopoly and allowing more commoner spirit masters to grow is the only way for the Empire to truly become strong."
"Interesting." A playful glint flashed in Xue Qinghe's eyes. "Are you criticizing imperial policy?"
"No, I am planning for the future of the empire." Chu Xinghe's voice was calm. "Learning from the barbarians to control them is the way to a strong nation."
"Learn from the barbarians' superior techniques to control the barbarians..." Xue Qinghe repeated softly, then suddenly changed the subject, "If one day I lose in a power struggle, what will you do?"
Chu Xinghe placed his right hand on his chest and solemnly said, "Wherever Your Highness's sword points, that is the direction of my conquest. No matter what lies ahead, I, Chu Xinghe, will never betray you."
Xue Qinghe gazed at him and reached out to help him up: "Sometimes taking sides too early isn't necessarily a good thing."
"All I know is that some choices are worth the risk," Chu Xinghe said, his eyes sharp. "Just like Your Highness's choice to trust me."
A breeze stirred in the woods, rustling the leaves.
Xue Qinghe, his white robes fluttering, said meaningfully, "I hope you won't disappoint me."
"I will certainly live up to Your Highness's expectations," Chu Xinghe replied solemnly.
Xue Qinghe turned and looked into the distance: "It's getting late, you should go back now. Remember what we talked about today..."
"It's just a discussion about cultivation experiences," Chu Xinghe replied knowingly.
Watching Chu Xinghe's departing figure, a complex emotion flashed in Xue Qinghe's eyes.
...
As soon as Chu Xinghe's figure disappeared at the end of the forest path, Xue Qinghe's originally gentle expression instantly turned cold.
"Come out," he said calmly.
As soon as he finished speaking, two dark figures emerged from the large tree behind Xue Qinghe like ghosts. The figures, one fat and one thin, gradually solidified, revealing themselves to be the Serpent Spear Douluo and the Porcupine Douluo, who were secretly protecting Xue Qinghe.
"Young Master." The two Title Douluos bowed respectfully, their eyes filled with awe.
Xue Qinghe, with his back to them, gently tapped the tree trunk with his slender fingers: "Do you think Chu Xinghe is truly loyal to me?"
The Porcupine Douluo stepped forward and said cautiously, "Young Master has shown Chu Xinghe great kindness and favor. Given his character, he should not be ungrateful. From my observation, his respect for Young Master is genuine."
Serpent Spear Douluo added thoughtfully, "But after all, he comes from the Heaven Dou Empire. Should we have the Spirit Hall send someone to make contact with him? After all, the potential he has shown is truly astonishing."
Xue Qinghe shook his head slightly, a sharp glint in his eyes: "I have my own arrangements for this matter, you don't need to interfere. Chu Xinghe's value is far more than what is visible on the surface."
He had other plans in mind. Now that Bibi Dong was in charge of the Spirit Hall, she didn't want to give up the talent she had painstakingly discovered.
"Young Master, you are wise," the Porcupine Douluo replied, bowing his head. Then, he hesitated before adding, "I'm just worried that if the Grand Elder asks about it..."
"I will explain to Grandpa myself," Xue Qinghe interrupted, her tone tinged with impatience. "You just need to do your job."
Seeing this, Serpent Spear Douluo immediately changed the subject: "Young Master, regarding the preparations for the Continental Elite High-Level Soul Master Tournament..."
"Proceed as planned." Xue Qinghe turned around, sunlight casting dappled shadows on his handsome face.
A cold smile curled at the corner of his lips: "I really want to see with my own eyes what kind of expression that woman will have when Chu Xinghe crushes her carefully cultivated golden generation on the field."
Unfortunately, her status as the Crown Prince prevented her from personally taking the stage; otherwise, she would have certainly made Bibi Dong's prized students taste defeat. However, with Chu Xinghe present, the plan was now even more perfect.
"Pay special attention to the movements of the Golden Generation. I need to know the latest strength assessment of each of them." Xue Qinghe's voice was calm and emotionless, but a hint of pleasure flashed in his eyes. "That woman should already know that Chu Xinghe is mine. The day of the competition will surely be quite exciting."
A knowing glint flashed in the eyes of the Porcupine Douluo: "Young Master is worried about His Holiness the Pope..."
"This is none of your business." Xue Qinghe glanced at him coldly. "Remember who you are."
The two titled Douluo immediately fell silent, fine beads of sweat appearing on their foreheads.
Xue Qinghe gazed in the direction Chu Xinghe had left, her eyes deep: "Keep an eye on him, but don't disturb him. I need to know his every move, especially his interactions with the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School and Poison Douluo."
"Understood," the two replied in unison.
"And another thing," Xue Qinghe suddenly emphasized, "Not a single word of what happened today is to be leaked. If I find out anyone has let it slip..."
"I guarantee it with my life!" Serpent Spear Douluo hurriedly declared.
Xue Qinghe nodded in satisfaction: "Go."
After the two Title Douluos disappeared back into the shadows, Xue Qinghe stood alone in the forest, a gentle breeze ruffling his robes.
He raised his hand to catch a falling leaf, and with a gentle flick of his fingertips, the leaf turned into dust and scattered in the wind.
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