Three and a half years had passed since Du Feng obtained his second spirit ring. Now, he was about to graduate from Tianfeng Junior Spirit Master Academy.
As he received his diploma, Du Feng pondered how to tell his parents that he didn't want to attend an intermediate academy—or even the prestigious Heaven Dou Royal Academy—but instead wished to study at Shrek Academy, still relatively unknown across the continent.
Before Du Feng could voice his thoughts, Du Tu spoke up first. "Feng'er, I'll send you to Shrek Academy myself. It's the best choice for your growth."
Du Tu explained that he knew Zhao Wuji personally—a legendary figure at Shrek Academy whose Martial Soul was the Mighty Vajra Bear, a bear-type spirit beast.
During his time as a Spirit Emperor, Zhao Wuji had offended the Spirit Hall and faced sixteen Spirit Emperors of equal level. Yet, relying on the extraordinary defense of his Mighty Vajra Bear, he fought through all sixteen opponents. That battle earned him the title "Immovable King" and cemented his fame.
Zhao Wuji had now reached the level of Soul Saint, far beyond Du Feng's current strength. Studying under such a master, especially with his Bear-type Martial Soul affinity, would significantly accelerate Du Feng's progress.
"The teachers at the intermediate academies can't compare to him," Du Tu said. "And since you've studied under me for so long, learning from Zhao Wuji will be perfect for your development. He'll teach you well, out of respect for me."
Du Feng's heart leapt. He had been trying to find a way to convince his parents to let him attend Shrek Academy. Now, he didn't even need a reason—he could go directly, and his father already knew Zhao Wuji. Everything was perfect.
He quickly agreed.
Though Jiang Mu felt some reluctance, she allowed him to go, prioritizing his future growth.
A few days later, Du Feng and Du Tu arrived at the entrance of a small village near Shrek Academy. Around the gate, a dozen or so boys and girls of Du Feng's age were gathered, many accompanied by adults, just as he was.
Du Feng and Du Tu stepped to the side, observing. Unlike past visits, no troublemakers appeared this time. The intimidating figure guarding the entrance wasn't the unassuming Soul Emperor Li Yusong, but Zhao Wuji himself. His burly frame and stern presence discouraged anyone from misbehaving.
Seeing the children scatter, Du Tu led Du Feng forward. Zhao Wuji spotted them immediately.
"Old Du! Long time no see! What brings you here today?" Zhao Wuji called out.
"I heard you became a vice-dean," Du Tu replied. "I've come to introduce you to a promising student—give you some face."
"A promising student, you say? Let me be clear—if he's truly talented, I'll take him. If not… don't waste my time."
Du Tu smiled. "Feng'er, show him your Martial Soul. Activate your spirit rings."
Du Feng immediately activated Martial Soul Possession. Purple fur erupted across his body, his height surpassed 1.8 meters, muscles bulged, and even his eyes turned a deep amethyst. Three spirit rings swirled around him: two yellow and one purple.
The third spirit ring had been earned just before graduation from a thousand-year-old Dark Gold Terrorclaw Bear, after months of challenging hunts in the Star Dou Great Forest with Du Tu. While it wasn't the offensive spirit skill he originally sought, it was a potent amplification skill that greatly enhanced his strength.
Zhao Wuji reached out, palpating Du Feng's arm to assess his age. Once confirmed, he exclaimed excitedly, "Excellent! A Soul Master at such a young age! Truly a promising talent. Old Du, you've raised a fine son!"
Du Tu nodded. "I told you. My son is in your care now—you must teach him well. I need to return to Tianfeng City. I've spent too much time hunting in the Star Dou Great Forest to secure him a worthy spirit beast. I have many responsibilities waiting. Let's meet another day."
Zhao Wuji replied with a confident grin, "Don't worry. Once your son arrives at Shrek Academy, I'll ensure he learns everything he needs."
Du Feng felt a thrill of excitement. His path was clear, and the next stage of his journey was about to begin.