Zhu Zhuqing still maintained her usual aloof demeanor, but her gaze toward Dai Chengfeng's back carried a subtle softness that was barely noticeable compared to usual.
She gave a light nod, responding concisely: "Mm."
One word, yet it conveyed all the affirmation she intended.
In the Star Luo Empire, the belief in strength being paramount was deeply ingrained. Dai Chengfeng's earlier display of overwhelming power had undoubtedly left an impression on her heart.
After all, who could resist a man capable of shielding you from storms?
Hu Liena lazily brushed a strand of hair from her temple, her lips curling into a playful yet enchanting smile. Her eyes sparkled as they lingered on Dai Chengfeng:
"Yes, our Chengfeng certainly stole the spotlight just now."
"The aura of a Soul King, combined with that terrifying configuration of soul rings—forget those two youngsters; even I was nearly overwhelmed at that moment."
Her words carried a teasing tone, but her admiration was unmistakable.
She had encountered many geniuses from the Spirit Hall, but none like Dai Chengfeng—his age, his strength, and his bizarre soul rings were truly unparalleled.
Watching him protect his companions in such a dominant manner, Hu Liena felt the subtle emotions stirring within her deepen further.
Being praised by three girls of distinct styles yet equally stunning beauty, especially feeling the tight grip of Ning Rongrong's arms and the approving gazes directed at him…
Dai Chengfeng couldn't help but feel a small swell of pride.
Even though he considered himself calm and not one for showing off, the sense of being needed, admired, and affirmed by those close to him was undeniably pleasant.
The corners of his mouth curved upward almost imperceptibly, and he tried to keep his tone casual:
"It's nothing, just happened to be there in time. I couldn't let outsiders bully you."
"Of course not!"
Ning Rongrong immediately chimed in, raising her chin proudly like a peacock showing off its feathers. "But you arrived at the best possible moment!"
"Hmph, that Feng Xiaotian thought he was so great. 'Feng Xiaotian of God Wind Academy,' announcing his title so grandly—but in front of you, he couldn't even speak properly."
She mimicked Feng Xiaotian's previously forced calm tone, then burst out laughing herself, her silvery laughter echoing down the evening street.
"You…"
Dai Chengfeng looked at Ning Rongrong and shook his head.
Soon, amid their chatter and laughter, the four returned to the inn where they were staying.
As soon as they entered the lobby, they saw the Grand Priest sitting in a chair, seemingly meditating with closed eyes.
Hearing their footsteps, she slowly opened her eyes, her deep gaze sweeping over the four, pausing briefly on Dai Chengfeng before gently asking:
"Back already? From the looks of you, something interesting must have happened along the way?"
Seeing the Grand Priest inquire, Ning Rongrong immediately found her ideal audience.
"Sister Hongye, Sister Hongye, let me tell you…"
She released Dai Chengfeng's arm and bounced over to the Grand Priest, vividly recounting what had transpired at the market.
How she had set her sights on the ring, how Huo Wu contested it, how Feng Xiaotian threatened them with his status, and how Dai Chengfeng made a dramatic entrance, showcasing his soul rings and stunning everyone.
Her storytelling was lively, her expressions animated. She gestured wildly at key moments, portraying Dai Chengfeng as if he were the heroic protagonist of a tale rescuing a damsel in distress.
"…Sister Hongye, you should've seen it! Dai Chengfeng was incredible!"
"He just stood there, without needing to say much, and when he revealed his soul rings, Feng Xiaotian and Huo Wu turned green with envy!"
"Hmph, let's see if they dare to bully anyone again after this!"
Ning Rongrong concluded with a flourish of her tiny fist.
Listening to her, Zhu Hongye kept a gentle smile, occasionally nodding, her gaze occasionally flickering toward Dai Chengfeng with approval and a hint of deeper meaning.
"Mm, handled well."
Zhu Hongye nodded slightly and addressed Dai Chengfeng, "You demonstrated strength, avoided unnecessary conflict, and refrained from escalating matters into lasting enmity—a commendable balance."
These words served both as affirmation and instruction.
Dai Chengfeng respectfully bowed his head: "I understand, thank you for your guidance, Grand Priest."
"Well then, since everything is fine, take some rest. We enter the Great Star Dou Forest tomorrow, so conserve your energy." The Grand Priest waved her hand dismissively.
Upon hearing this, Dai Chengfeng said, "Then, Grand Priest, I'll head to my room first."
"Go ahead."
Dai Chengfeng turned and headed toward his room.
…
Back in his room, Dai Chengfeng had just sat down by the bed, preparing to focus inward for cultivation, when a soft knock sounded at the door.
"Knock, knock, knock."
The sound was light, tinged with hesitation.
Dai Chengfeng was somewhat surprised. Who could it be at this hour?
Zhu Zhuqing, with her aloof nature, rarely initiated visits;
Hu Liena might, but her knocking would typically be more… lazy and casual.
Could it be hotel service?
He rose and walked to the door, pulling it open.
Standing outside was Ning Rongrong, who had returned unexpectedly.
The little girl slightly lowered her head, hands clasped behind her back, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush. Her gaze flitted nervously, avoiding direct eye contact.
"Rongrong? Is there something else?" Dai Chengfeng asked curiously.
He noticed that Ning Rongrong's hands behind her back seemed to be holding something.
Upon hearing his question, Ning Rongrong appeared to make up her mind, abruptly lifting her head and extending the hand she had been hiding behind her back toward Dai Chengfeng.
Resting on her delicate palm was the emerald jade ring that had caused the earlier commotion.
"Here, this is for you."
Ning Rongrong's voice was softer than usual, carrying a hint of nervousness.
Dai Chengfeng was taken aback, looking at the ring and then at Ning Rongrong: "For me? Isn't this something you liked?"
He remembered clearly how Ning Rongrong had shown immense interest in the ring, even going so far as to argue with Huo Wu over it.
Ning Rongrong's face reddened further. She pursed her lips and explained:
"Yes… it was indeed something I initially wanted, but I sensed it might be special."
She paused, lifting her head to look earnestly at Dai Chengfeng. "You should know, our Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Pagoda—now the Nine Treasures Glazed Tile Pagoda—has, aside from auxiliary abilities, an innate sensitivity to treasures of heaven and earth, things with spirit."
"When I touched this ring, I felt it harbored a very subtle yet unique energy fluctuation—it's definitely not an ordinary ornament."
She pushed the ring a bit closer to Dai Chengfeng: "Though I like how pretty it is, I think it might be more useful to you."
"You're often out there, facing more dangers…"
"This is for you… consider it… a small token of gratitude."
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