Liu Erlong had long been stuck at the peak of Rank 79. Now that she had finally broken through to Spirit Douluo, how could Lin Jie not be overjoyed? After all, Liu Erlong was his woman now. A stronger partner naturally brought him pride and happiness.
Zhu Zhuqing then filled him in on what had happened during the half year he was away. Only now did Lin Jie understand why so many students had been watching him earlier with those mocking, expectant eyes.
After Lin Jie left, Liu Erlong put all Shrek Academy's affairs aside and focused entirely on cultivation. The Youlin Pavilion in the rear courtyard had been designated a restricted area of the academy. Only Zhu Zhuqing and Lin Ran were allowed to enter. Even Flender and the others rarely disturbed them without reason.
But one day, when Zhu Zhuqing and Lin Ran left the academy together, their stunning looks attracted the attention of some bold Shrek students. Several brash boys tried to approach them, only to be ignored completely. Rumors soon spread that Zhu Zhuqing lived in the back mountain. A few hot-blooded teenagers, blinded by impulse, actually barged into Youlin Pavilion.
The result? They were beaten so badly they couldn't find their own teeth, then thrown out like trash. A few more stubborn ones tried later, but the outcome never changed. After that, no one dared enter again. That was why, when they saw Lin Jie walk into the rear courtyard today, everyone had looked at him like they were waiting for a show.
Two months ago, Liu Erlong had successfully advanced to Rank 80 and obtained her eighth Spirit Ring. Not only was the spirit beast over 80,000 years old, but she had also gained an incredible treasure—an extremely rare Torso Bone. When she first held it in her hands, she was completely stunned. Among all Spirit Bones, a torso bone provided the greatest benefits, making it the most precious of all.
During this time, Liu Erlong treated Zhu Zhuqing almost like a younger sister, which surprised Zhu Zhuqing greatly.
Just half a month ago, Zhu Zhuqing herself had broken through to Rank 50. Liu Erlong personally accompanied her to hunt down a suitable spirit beast for her fifth Spirit Ring.
For Zhu Zhuqing to gain two ranks in half a year was impressive, but not unexpected for Lin Jie. After all, her body had undergone his lightning-tempering refinement and the transformation of the Supreme Immortal product. Her talent could no longer be described with the word "genius."
A few days later, Yu Xiaogang suddenly appeared at the academy, asking to see Liu Erlong. After that, she said she had to return to her clan to deal with some matters and had now been gone for about half a month.
Hearing this, Lin Jie's eyes narrowed, a sharp glint flashing within them.
Liu Erlong was his woman now. He would never allow anyone to hurt her. If Yu Xiaogang dared harbor any improper thoughts, Lin Jie would not show mercy.
As for his younger sister Lin Ran, she was doing very well at the academy, her strength steadily growing.
"Zhuqing, did Erlong-jie say when she would return?"
"She said within a month. But she didn't give a specific date."
"I see…"
The two of them talked for a long time. After half a year apart, they finally entered Youlin Pavilion to ease the ache of longing.
Lin Jie had originally planned to reunite with his family, spend time with Zhu Zhuqing and Liu Erlong, and then head to Spirit Hall. But now, it seemed he would stay a little longer.
Holding Zhu Zhuqing close in the cabin, Lin Jie asked softly:
"Zhuqing, has your clan sent anyone to look for you?"
Nestled in his arms, Zhu Zhuqing nodded.
"They came, but here they don't dare act recklessly. And besides, with Erlong-jie, a Spirit Douluo, standing guard, I'm safe."
Lin Jie still felt wary of Zhu Zhuqing's clan, but he wasn't overly concerned. This was Heaven Dou Empire's territory—they wouldn't dare send anyone too strong. At most, a Spirit Emperor or Spirit Sage. If they really came, Lin Jie might not even let them leave alive.
"Oh, right, Zhuqing. Once Erlong-jie returns, I'll be heading to Spirit Hall."
"Spirit Hall? What for?" Zhu Zhuqing tilted her head, confused. She didn't know much about Spirit Hall, though her impression wasn't particularly good or bad.
"Because only Spirit Hall can help me achieve my dream. That's why I must join them."
"Your dream…?"
"Yes. My dream."
Zhu Zhuqing's voice was soft but firm:
"Mhm. Whatever you decide to do, I'll support you. I'll always be by your side."
As for what that dream was, she didn't ask. It was enough for her just to stay with him.
"When Erlong-jie returns, I have something important to discuss with her."
Lin Jie gazed at Zhu Zhuqing with increasing tenderness. To him, she seemed more beautiful with every passing moment.
Later, lying in his arms, Zhu Zhuqing pretended to pout.
"You're bad."
Lin Jie smiled gently.
"Zhuqing, you don't know how enchanting you are. My little cat, I love being with you the most."
Her cheeks flushed. She wasn't yet used to Lin Jie's boldness, but secretly, she realized she didn't dislike it either. Her only restraint was the natural shyness of a young woman.
A few days later, Liu Erlong returned to Shrek Academy. When she saw Lin Jie again, her joy was beyond words. Their relationship had only just been confirmed before he left, so her longing for him had been overwhelming.
Lin Jie was just as delighted—but when he noticed Yu Xiaogang walking at her side, a flicker of jealousy rose in his chest.
That very night, Lin Jie went to find Liu Erlong. After hearing the full story of her trip, their pent-up longing exploded. Passionate and unrestrained, they gave themselves fully to each other.
Liu Erlong's fervor was far beyond Lin Jie's expectations, but with his experience, he eventually turned the tables with a final reversal. Lin Jie sighed inwardly—a woman may appear elegant and reserved, but once she lets go, the intensity she unleashes is unbelievable.
Only afterward did he realize, with a jolt, that they hadn't used any protection.
Another half month passed. Surrounded by Zhu Zhuqing and Liu Erlong, Lin Jie nearly drowned in bliss.
But he knew he couldn't stay forever.
"Erlong-jie, I have to leave. You must train diligently when you return to your clan. I'll come find you and Zhuqing later."
"Mhm, I know. You take care of yourself too. I'll bring Zhuqing back with me to train at the clan."
She had already grown used to calling Zhu Zhuqing her younger sister.
With their reluctant gazes following him, Lin Jie finally set out for Spirit Hall.
He had already told his mother and the Duo'er sisters a week earlier that he would be leaving to train.
After speaking with Liu Erlong at the academy, she decided to return to her clan to cultivate, and Zhu Zhuqing chose to go with her. Though she wanted to follow Lin Jie, she knew her strength was still too weak. She needed to grow stronger first.
Now that Liu Erlong had reached Spirit Douluo and even secured her position within the clan, bringing Zhu Zhuqing along posed no problem.
At first, Liu Erlong had strongly opposed Lin Jie's decision to join Spirit Hall. But after he explained his reasons and promised her he would be safe, she reluctantly agreed. She returned to the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan not just to train, but also with the intent of helping Lin Jie achieve his grand dream.
Though reluctant to part from them, Lin Jie knew he had to grow stronger. Only then could he truly protect them and spend more time by their side.
From Heaven Dou City to Spirit Hall would take at least fifteen days on horseback. If he flew with his sword, seven or eight days would suffice.
But Lin Jie wasn't in a hurry. After leaving the city, he bought a red-maned horse and headed south toward Spirit Hall.
A few days later, while riding through a desolate stretch of forest outside Heaven Dou City, Lin Jie reined in his horse. His gaze turned sharply toward the dense woods on either side.
This place, remote and isolated, was the perfect spot for murder and disposal of a body.
He had sensed the tail long ago. Whoever was following him was strong, but not beyond his ability to handle. That was why Lin Jie hadn't bothered to flush them out earlier.