Word Count: 2,765 Words
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"He has taken you as his Teacher?"
Du Busi stared at Elder Mu, who appeared frail and aged, his gaze as sharp as a blade. "Dragon God, for your sake, the Body Sect will take a step back today. But let's not mince words; the Body Sect will not give up on a single Body Martial Spirit.
You are much older than I, and I refuse to believe my elder brother didn't leave you with something back then. When your time comes, no one in Shrek Academy will be my match.
The green hills endure, and the clear waters flow on. We shall meet again."
As he finished speaking, a burst of dark green light erupted from Du Busi, burning a hole through the golden Sea God's Light. His voice rang out far and wide:
"All members of the Body Sect, fall back!"
More than twenty Titled and Spirit Douluo from the Body Sect abandoned their opponents and retreated swiftly. The Sea God's Light gradually retracted until it disappeared beneath the Sea God Pavilion. The battle was brought to an end.
In Shrek Academy's Outer Courtyard, students and teachers emerged from the teaching buildings to begin cleaning up the damage caused by the battle.
Because the Outer Courtyard teachers and Inner Courtyard students had voluntarily protected the area, it suffered minimal damage, and no students lost their lives. The most serious injury was to a support-type freshman who, while running back to his classroom, accidentally slipped and broke his leg.
Throughout Shrek Academy, excited voices rose in discussion about the titanic battle, speculating about whose Martial Spirit or spirit skill that magnificent Light Holy Dragon belonged to. Rumors and debates swirled through every corner of Shrek City.
Ling Bai and Han Ruoruo hovered above Sea God Lake. The Fire Phoenix descended from the sky and transformed into the graceful figure of Ma Xiaotao. Seven spirit rings glowed around her fiery, enchanting body: two yellow, two purple, two black, and one red. That blood-red 100,000-year spirit ring emitted an ancient, oppressive aura.
"Congratulations on obtaining the 100,000-year Martial Spirit Avatar. It seems Dean Yan intends to cultivate you to enter the Sea God Pavilion as soon as possible."
Han Ruoruo nodded in agreement at Ling Bai's words. The importance of the seventh spirit ring was as great as that of the ninth. The Martial Spirit Avatar could stimulate a Spirit Master's origin power to its fullest and marked a watershed in a Spirit Master's strength.
It was the combination of Ultimate Fire, Ma Xiaotao's status as a direct disciple of the Martial Spirit Department's Dean, her prodigious talent, and her impeccable pedigree that had persuaded Yan Shaozhe to gather five Titled Douluo, all to ensure her innate talent would not be wasted.
Ma Xiaotao's strength soared now that she was armed with a 100,000-year spirit ring and a 100,000-year spirit bone. Excluding Ling Bai, only two Spirit Douluo Senior Sisters among Shrek Academy's Inner Courtyard students were qualified to contend with her. Her future entry into the Sea God Pavilion was as good as sealed.
Ma Xiaotao first greeted Han Ruoruo with a slight nod, then slowly approached Ling Bai and patted his shoulder with measured weight. Her pink eyes held a teasing smile.
"That's all thanks to you."
She then glanced up at the sky and said, "I've just broken through to Spirit Saint, but my cultivation seems a bit unstable, and the Phoenix Evil Fire is showing signs of erupting. I'll probably have to stay home cultivating all night to stabilize it.
Ling Bai, Senior Sister Han, let's chat another day."
Han Ruoruo turned to Ling Bai with a puzzled look as Ma Xiaotao's graceful figure faded from sight. "Why do I feel there's more to her words?"
"Elder Sister is overthinking it."
Ling Bai chuckled and shook his head. "I'm going to the Outer Courtyard to check on Xiao Tian and Wu Feng."
"Alright, you go ahead."
Han Ruoruo wasn't familiar with Ning Tian and Wu Feng, so she naturally didn't accompany Ling Bai to the Outer Courtyard and instead returned to Sea God Island alone. Once Ling Bai sensed she was gone, he changed direction and left Shrek Academy.
The Body Sect had retreated, but Elder Mu still stood before the Sea God Pavilion. Just as the elders looked on in perplexity, he spoke in a low voice:
"Since you're here, why not show yourself? Sneaking around is unbecoming."
Elder Mu reached out his right hand toward the empty space, and a shining golden dragon claw unfolded. Countless tiny black spatial cracks instantly appeared in the air.
"Junior Jing Hongchen pays his respects to Dragon God Douluo."
A faint golden light shone as its halo expanded outward. Distorted light patterns formed a solid shield that barely resisted Elder Mu's dragon claw.
The visitor was none other than Illustrious Virtue Hall Master Jing Hongchen. He wore a black robe embroidered with golden patterns. Beads of sweat gathered on his face. That shield was a trigger-type Class 9 defensive Spirit Guidance Device, yet Elder Mu's casual grasp had nearly shattered it, revealing the unfathomable depths of his strength.
"What are you here for?"
Elder Xuan's expression was gloomy. The Body Sect, Evil Spirit Masters, Illustrious Virtue Hall… are these bastards taking a group tour of Shrek Academy?!
Various elders rubbed their fists, seemingly intent on taking Jing Hongchen down on the spot.
The Body Sect at least had some justification for their visit concerning Body Martial Spirits. Moreover, everyone stood on the side of the Douluo Continent's original three empires and would not easily fall out with one another.
But for a fool like you from the Sun Moon Empire to come unannounced? You're definitely courting death!
Jing Hongchen smiled slightly. "I've come today to discuss important matters with Shrek Academy, but to think I'd witness two peak experts of the Spirit Master world, Body Douluo and Dragon God Douluo, is truly my good fortune."
"Since you're a guest, please come in."
Elder Mu halted the restless elders and turned to walk into the Sea God Pavilion. The others dispersed, leaving only Elder Xuan trailing closely behind him.
Jing Hongchen stood outside the Sea God Pavilion and, quite uncharacteristically, hesitated. Elder Mu had easily seen through his Class 9 Concealment Spirit Guidance Device, and his Class 9 Defensive Spirit Guidance Device was as fragile as paper against him. The Sea God Pavilion was easy to enter but hard to leave.
Though he had considered the possibility of it being a 'Hongmen Banquet,' a quick thought reassured him. He had made thorough preparations in advance. Even if the Sea God Pavilion were a dragon's pool and a tiger's den, he dared to venture inside!
Upon entering the first floor of the Sea God Pavilion, Jing Hongchen continued to observe his surroundings, surprise flashing in his eyes from time to time. He had a broad perspective as the Illustrious Virtue Hall Master and recognized the extraordinary nature of the Sea God Pavilion.
Elder Mu reclined on a lounge chair without releasing a hint of aura, yet he exerted tremendous pressure on Jing Hongchen. The Sun Moon Empire had long accumulated the resources to once again launch a continental war, but ninety percent of the reason they hadn't formally started was their wariness of Shrek Academy.
Shrek Academy had nearly single-handedly turned the tide in the last war. Without knowing its true strength, the Sun Moon Empire was unwilling to rashly start another.
Jing Hongchen had personally come to Shrek for two reasons. First, to ensure the smooth implementation of the exchange student plan, and second, to gather intelligence.
The second task was already successful. Jing Hongchen had observed most of Shrek Academy's powerhouses and learned Elder Mu's 'Dragon God Douluo' title from Du Busi. Once he returned to the Sun Moon Empire, he would have plenty of time to investigate Elder Mu further.
Elder Mu said indifferently, "This old man will be blunt. If you dare to aim Spirit Guidance Devices at Shrek City again, I will pay a visit to the Sun Moon Empire's capital. Now, state your business."
Jing Hongchen was instantly shocked. He had entered Shrek Academy fearlessly, relying not only on his few Class 9 Spirit Guidance Devices but also on the meticulous arrangements outside Shrek City. He hadn't expected Elder Mu to have discovered even that.
"This junior understands."
Jing Hongchen struggled to calm his inner shock, then continued solemnly, "I am here regarding the exchange student matter we have raised several times. The Sun Moon Imperial Academy is the continent's number one Spirit Guidance Master academy, while Shrek Academy is the continent's number one Spirit Master academy. We share a relationship of both competition and cooperation.
I believe this exchange is very necessary. By learning from each other's strengths to compensate for our weaknesses, we can make great progress that will greatly promote the development of both sides."
Elder Mu asked, "Academic exchange benefits us both, but how can the Sun Moon Imperial Academy guarantee the safety of Shrek's students? And what can Shrek's students learn at your esteemed academy?"
Jing Hongchen seemed to have anticipated this question and answered without hesitation, "I swear on the honor of the Illustrious Virtue Hall that during their study at the Sun Moon Imperial Academy, Shrek's students will receive the best guidance. If they possess the ability, they can be admitted into the Illustrious Virtue Hall for advanced studies."
"Words alone are not enough."
Elder Mu was dissatisfied with this answer and put forward his own proposal. "Xiao Hongchen and Meng Hongchen must participate in the exchange student program. This old man can guarantee their entry into Shrek's Inner Courtyard to study as equals with other Inner Courtyard students.
Accepting Inner Courtyard teaching, competing in the Spirit Dueling Arena, and carrying out surveillance assignments—not one requirement for Inner Courtyard students will be waived for them. If they can meet Shrek Inner Courtyard's three graduation requirements during the exchange period, Shrek will award them graduation certificates and engrave their names on the Inner Courtyard's historical graduate list."
"Agreed."
Jing Hongchen said without hesitation. "Meng and Xiao are the most valued geniuses of the Sun Moon Imperial Academy. Since they are coming to Shrek Academy, I have an additional condition.
Ling Bai and Huo Yuhao must appear on Shrek Academy's exchange student list."
After the Continental Elite Spirit Master Academy Tournament, Xiao Hongchen and Meng Hongchen had already volunteered to participate in the exchange program, so this was no issue for Jing Hongchen. His goal was for Shrek to send students of equal status. Both sides would then be cautious about harming each other's prized assets, ensuring that the exchange could proceed smoothly.
Elder Mu lightly tapped the armrest of his recliner. Beside him, Elder Xuan's eyes blazed with anger as he glared at Jing Hongchen.
Jing Hongchen smiled and added, "Senior Dragon God, Taotie Douluo, please do not blame me. I must provide proper assurances for my grandson and granddaughter.
Huo Yuhao is Senior Dragon God's disciple, possessing the spiritual-type Body Martial Spirit, 'Spirit Eyes,' and the Ultimate Ice 'Ice Jade Scorpion' as Twin Martial Spirits. As for Ling Bai, he indeed makes the Seraphim worthy of being called a God-level Martial Spirit. That Evil Titled Douluo hardly put up any effective resistance before dying at his and the Dazzling Golden Rope Spirit Douluo's hands.
We are both offering two geniuses; neither side is at a disadvantage."
After a long silence, Elder Mu let out a deep sigh. "Huo Yuhao cultivates both Martial Spirits and Spirit Guidance Devices, so it's reasonable for him to participate in the exchange program. But Ling Bai focuses solely on his Martial Spirit and his use of Spirit Guidance Devices is limited. Sending him to the Sun Moon Imperial Academy would be wasting his talent. Moreover, his identity is extremely special, and Shrek cannot compel him to go."
"Is that so..."
Jing Hongchen's mind immediately raced. Elder Mu's underlying message was that Ling Bai was not part of Shrek's core and could not be ordered around.
So, was there a possibility—the Seraphim...
Could belong to the Sun Moon Empire?!
Jing Hongchen was almost frightened by this thought. He quickly dismissed the idea and focused on the matter at hand.
"Senior Dragon God, I believe in your character. Ling Bai is not absolutely required. If he's willing to come to the Sun Moon Imperial Academy, I would welcome him with open arms. If not, then so be it.
How about this. In two years, we officially begin the exchange student program, with the exchange lasting three years, so that it coincides with the next Continental Elite Spirit Master Academy Tournament."
Elder Mu made the final decision. "Two years from today, you bring your people, and I will have Xuan Zi send our representatives to the Sun Moon Imperial Academy simultaneously. The Sun Moon exchange students shall include Xiao Hongchen and Meng Hongchen, while Shrek's will include Huo Yuhao."
"It's settled then. This junior shall take his leave."
Jing Hongchen revealed a relaxed smile as he prepared to leave the Sea God Pavilion and return to the Sun Moon Empire to make arrangements.
"Wait."
A gentle voice suddenly stopped him.
"Does Senior have something else?"
Jing Hongchen asked, puzzled.
"Over the years, you are the first outsider to enter the Sea God Pavilion."
Elder Mu said. "An old friend of mine once said that coming uninvited to inquire about secrets requires payment of an entrance fee.
Leave behind a Class 9 Spirit Guidance Device and explain its usage. Consider it your ticket into the Sea God Pavilion."
"Ah?!"
Jing Hongchen was momentarily dumbfounded. This ancient powerhouse was actually making such a demand. It was blatant extortion!
"Senior Dragon God, you're bullying with seniority..."
Jing Hongchen tried to protest, but Elder Mu simply smiled without a word, calmly fixing his gaze upon him. Then Jing Hongchen was shocked to discover that the walls, floor, and ceiling of the Sea God Pavilion were all emitting a faint golden light, as though an invisible giant hand were gripping his throat.
"Fine… I'll give it to you!"
...
"Wait, where's the treasure? Where are Jing Hongchen's Spirit Guidance Devices?"
Outside Shrek City, Qian Duoduo, Xian Lin'er, and Fan Yu scratched their heads, looking completely baffled.
Elder Mu had informed them that Jing Hongchen had set up eight powerful Spirit Guidance Devices in eight directions outside Shrek City. Yet when they arrived at the designated locations, only some traces remained. The Spirit Guidance Devices had all vanished without a trace!
"Keep looking!"
Qian Duoduo refused to accept it. They had searched seven locations and only one remained.
The three arrived at a Spirit Guidance Device array where towering metal structures stood. There they witnessed a five‐meter-tall, five‐meter-wide, pitch‐black fatty exuding an aura of death, huffing and puffing as he moved the Spirit Guidance Devices.
"What the hell?!"
Qian Duoduo pointed with a finger as thick as a carrot, his eyes wide. "Lin'er, Fan Yu, am I seeing things? What in the world is that thing? And it's actually moving Spirit Guidance Devices!"
The fatty also spotted the three of them. Four faces met with a moment of stunned silence as the atmosphere grew incredibly awkward.
The awkwardness persisted until the fatty grabbed a Spirit Guidance Device, hoisted it onto his shoulder, and then took off running, leaving trails of pitch-black exhaust behind.
"Stop right there!"
"You damn fatty, stop right there!"
The three unleashed their speed and chased frantically. Despite the fatty's bulky build, he was surprisingly swift. Suddenly, a blood-red door appeared ahead. He dove through it in one leap, and the door closed behind him, leaving the three outside roaring in anger.
Inside the Spectral Demiplane, Ling Bai watched as the returning eighth laborer, a Spectral Creature, carried a total of four Class 9 and four Class 8 Spirit Guidance Devices, all of which were offensive Stationary Spirit Cannons. He raised his index and middle fingers in a victory sign.
"Aha, I've struck it rich!"
The Spider Emperor Sense had detected the dangerous aura emanating from the Spirit Guidance Devices. He had followed the trail and sent eight Spectral Creatures to snatch them. They would serve excellently as bombs in the future.
Fifteen minutes later, Jing Hongchen, who had paid a Class 9 Spirit Guidance Device known as 'Hongchen's Blessing' as ransom, looked upon the barren ground and erupted in anger.
"Damn it, is Shrek a den of thieves? Not a single one left?!"