Cherreads

Chapter 29 - Chapter 29

# Chapter 29: Growth and Guidance

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The journey back from Star Dou Great Forest was completely different from their rushed trip there.

Chen Sheng and his group walked slowly, stopping whenever they found interesting places to rest and recover from the frightening experience with the 100,000-year spirit beasts.

Everyone still felt shaken by what happened. Even Zhao Wuji and Flender, both Spirit Saints, looked uncomfortable whenever someone mentioned the Titan Giant Ape and Sky Azure Bull Python.

Chen Sheng walked at the front with a relaxed expression, occasionally chatting with Xiao Wu about random things.

"Brother, look at that tree! The flowers are so pretty!" Xiao Wu pointed excitedly at a large tree covered in pink blossoms.

Chen Sheng smiled slightly. "Yeah, they are. Want me to pick some for you?"

"Really? You would?" Xiao Wu's eyes sparkled.

"Of course," Chen Sheng said warmly, then easily jumped up and plucked several beautiful branches, handing them to Xiao Wu.

Behind them, Tang San walked quietly with his head down. His face showed deep thought and troubled emotions. The gap between his strength and Chen Sheng's felt like an impossible mountain to climb.

Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing stayed near Chen Sheng as well, both watching him with obvious admiration mixed with other feelings they weren't ready to admit yet.

---

During one rest stop near a small stream, Zhu Zhuqing finally found her chance.

Chen Sheng had separated from the group slightly, sitting alone near the water and skipping stones across its surface with practiced ease. He seemed relaxed and approachable.

Zhu Zhuqing approached quietly, her heart beating fast with nervousness. She had been planning this conversation for days but kept losing courage.

"Chen Sheng," she called softly, her normally cold voice carrying unusual warmth.

Chen Sheng turned and smiled slightly. "Hey, Zhuqing. What's up?"

His friendly tone made her feel a bit more at ease, though her nervousness remained.

Zhu Zhuqing took a deep breath. Her hands trembled slightly as she clasped them together. "I... I want to ask you something important."

"Sure, go ahead," Chen Sheng said encouragingly, patting the ground beside him. "Sit down. You look way too tense."

Zhu Zhuqing sat carefully, still nervous. "Please teach me!" she suddenly blurted out. "Help me become stronger! I need power more than anything! I'll do anything you ask in return—anything at all!"

Her tone mixed hopeful pleading with nervous determination. She knew she was offering something dangerous with those words, but she didn't care anymore. Power meant everything to her survival.

『DING! DETECTED Zhu Zhuqing's Desperate Hope and Willingness emotion toward host. Congratulations! Reward: Treasure Chest acquired!』

Chen Sheng studied her for a moment, his expression thoughtful but not harsh. He understood exactly what she was offering—complete trust in exchange for guidance.

"You don't need to offer me 'anything,'" Chen Sheng said gently. "If I help you, it'll be because I want to, not because you owe me something."

Zhu Zhuqing's eyes widened with surprise at his kindness.

Chen Sheng continued with a slight smile. "But I do want to know—why are you so desperate for strength? What's driving you?"

Zhu Zhuqing hesitated, then explained quietly about the Star Luo Empire's cruel succession system, her engagement to Dai Mubai, and how he had abandoned her to face deadly competition alone.

Chen Sheng listened carefully, his expression growing more serious. "That's... really harsh. I can see why you're so determined."

He thought for a moment, then nodded. "Alright. I'll teach you. But fair warning—my training methods are pretty intense. You'll have to work really hard. Can you handle that?"

"Yes!" Zhu Zhuqing said immediately, her eyes brightening with hope and gratitude. "Thank you! I won't disappoint you!"

"We'll start tonight," Chen Sheng stated with a friendly smile. "Meet me after everyone else sleeps. I'll teach you some techniques that'll really boost your capabilities."

Zhu Zhuqing nodded quickly, her face flushed slightly with complex emotions—excitement about training, nervousness about the late-night meetings, and something else she refused to name.

『DING! DETECTED Zhu Zhuqing's Hope and Deep Affection emotion toward host. Congratulations! Reward: Treasure Chest acquired!』

---

## Return to Shrek Academy

A few days later, Chen Sheng and his group finally returned to Shrek Academy.

Everyone felt relieved to see the familiar buildings again after their dangerous adventure. Even the academy's run-down appearance seemed welcoming compared to the terrifying ancient forest.

Flender gathered everyone in the main courtyard, his expression showing satisfaction despite the near-disaster they'd experienced.

"Alright, although the trip to Star Dou Great Forest was quite thrilling, Oscar and Ma Hongjun both had good harvests with their third spirit rings," Flender announced. "I'll give you three days off to rest well, and then we'll proceed with the next stage of training!"

Then he disappeared by himself, probably going to count his money or manage academy business.

Tang San stood silently, his expression complicated. Three days of rest... I need to train harder during that time. I can't keep falling behind Brother Sheng like this.

『DING! DETECTED Tang San's Complex emotion toward host. Congratulations! Reward: Treasure Chest acquired!』

Yu Xiaogang noticed Tang San's troubled face and approached him. "Little San, come with me for a moment."

He was worried that Tang San might feel unbalanced because Chen Sheng's growth was extremely fast and seemingly unlimited. Yu Xiaogang felt it was necessary to counsel his student before these negative feelings damaged Tang San's confidence permanently.

People aren't afraid of comparison; what they're afraid of is comparing themselves and finding they're inferior in all aspects.

Originally, Tang San was quite pleased with himself for getting the Eight Spider Lances external Spirit Bone—a remarkable achievement that should have made him proud. But compared to Chen Sheng's overwhelming dominance and continuous advancement, even that seemed inadequate.

Tang San followed his teacher with heavy steps, clearly needing guidance.

---

As everyone began dispersing toward their dormitories, Chen Sheng suddenly spoke directly to Zhu Zhuqing.

"Zhu Zhuqing, we'll meet late tonight for training."

Then he turned and walked toward his room with a casual wave, his expression relaxed and friendly.

Xiao Wu and the others: ???

What does he mean by meeting Zhu Zhuqing late at night?

Ning Rongrong's eyes widened with surprise and poorly hidden jealousy. "Late at night? Why would they...?"

Xiao Wu's face showed complex emotions—confusion, worry, and something uncomfortable tightening around her heart. "Brother is going to train with Zhu Zhuqing? Alone? At night?"

Oscar and Ma Hongjun exchanged knowing glances, their minds immediately jumping to inappropriate conclusions that showed on their lecherous faces.

Dai Mubai felt complicated emotions but stayed silent. He had already given up any claim to Zhu Zhuqing and recognized Chen Sheng's strength was beyond his reach.

Xiao Wu, Ning Rongrong, and even Tang San (though he tried to hide it) all secretly made up their minds.

Must watch! We need to see what kind of "training" happens at night!

So diligent? Or something else entirely?

---

After closing his door, Chen Sheng sat comfortably on his bed, stretching his arms above his head.

"System, open all treasure chests," he commanded mentally with anticipation.

『Opening Treasure Chests...』

---

『Treasure Chest: Martial Soul Improvement Card』

"Nice! Another one!" Chen Sheng said enthusiastically.

He immediately used it on his Eighteen-Winged Quad-Element Supreme Archangel martial soul without hesitation.

Brilliant divine radiance exploded within his spiritual sea as the transformation began! The magnificent angel blazed with tremendous power as two additional wings burst forth from its form!

Nine wings on the right side—blazing with golden holy fire and radiant light!

Nine wings on the left side—radiating with freezing darkness and absolute cold!

『Martial Soul Evolution: Eighteen-Winged Hex-Element Supreme Divine Archangel (Light, Darkness, Ice, Fire)』

But the transformation didn't stop there!

Something even more profound occurred—a domain began forming around the Archangel! Divine power condensed and crystallized into a complete territory of absolute control!

『Domain Acquired: Sacred Angel Domain』

Information flooded Chen Sheng's consciousness about his new domain's capabilities:

Sacred Domain Effects:

- Dual Mode Switching: Can switch between Light/Fire mode and Darkness/Ice mode instantly

- Complete Domain Suppression: Suppresses all other domains completely, rendering them 50% less effective

- Mental Clarity Reduction: Reduces enemy mental clarity by 50%, making them slower to react and easier to manipulate

- Attribute Amplification: Boosts Chen Sheng's combat power by 100% when using abilities matching the active mode

- Environmental Control: Can alter temperature, light levels, and atmospheric conditions within domain range

- Angel Aura (Light/Fire Mode): Continuously heals allies and burns enemies with holy flames

- Range: 500 meters radius, expandable with spirit power investment

Chen Sheng grinned with satisfaction. "This is amazing! A domain at Spirit Emperor level is already rare, but mine completely suppresses others! This is going to be so useful!"

---

『Treasure Chest: Decorative Jade Hairpin』

"Hmm, maybe I can give this to one of the girls as a gift." Stored.

---

『Treasure Chest: Ancient Poetry Collection』

"Not really my thing." Stored.

---

『Treasure Chest: Cooking Utensils Set』

"Useless for me." Stored.

---

『Treasure Chest: Modern World Novel』

"Might be fun to read later." Stored.

---

『Treasure Chest: Ornamental Fan』

"Whatever." Stored.

---

『Treasure Chest: Historical Records (Damaged)』

"Maybe useful someday." Stored.

---

Chen Sheng shrugged with a slight smile. "Lots of useless stuff this time. But the Martial Soul Improvement Card and domain formation are incredible, so I can't complain."

He settled into meditation to fully integrate the Sacred Domain into his combat capabilities, feeling the tremendous power now at his command.

---

Late at night, when the academy had grown quiet and most students slept, a soft knock came at Chen Sheng's door.

Chen Sheng opened it to find Zhu Zhuqing standing there, dressed in her tight black training clothes. Her face showed nervous determination mixed with hope.

"I'm ready," she said quietly.

Chen Sheng smiled warmly. "Good! Let's go. I found a perfect training spot where we won't disturb anyone."

They walked together through the darkness, Chen Sheng leading with confident but relaxed steps while Zhu Zhuqing followed close behind.

Unknown to them, three pairs of eyes watched from hidden positions—Xiao Wu, Ning Rongrong, and Tang San had all decided to spy on this "training session."

Xiao Wu's heart felt uncomfortable as she watched her brother walking alone with another girl. Why does this bother me so much?

Ning Rongrong felt jealous that Zhu Zhuqing was receiving special attention and training from Chen Sheng. I want private lessons too!

Tang San watched with complicated emotions—concern for what might happen, inadequacy that he wasn't the one being sought for guidance, and growing obsession with understanding Chen Sheng's mysterious strength.

---

Once they reached the secluded training area, Chen Sheng turned to face Zhu Zhuqing with a friendly but serious expression.

"Alright, first let me see what you can do," Chen Sheng said encouragingly. "Show me your martial soul and spirit rings."

Zhu Zhuqing immediately summoned her Hell Civet martial soul. The sleek, dangerous cat appeared beside her, radiating cold agility. Two yellow spirit rings rose from beneath her feet.

Chen Sheng observed carefully, nodding thoughtfully. "Your martial soul emphasizes speed and agility, which really suits you. But your foundation needs work. Your movements lack precision, and you're wasting energy with unnecessary motions."

Zhu Zhuqing's face flushed with embarrassment, but she nodded seriously. "Please teach me how to improve."

"I'm going to teach you something called Phantom Steps," Chen Sheng explained with enthusiasm. "It's a movement technique that'll dramatically increase your speed and create afterimages to confuse enemies. It's pretty challenging to master, but I think you'll pick it up quickly given your natural talent."

"I'll work as hard as necessary!" Zhu Zhuqing declared.

Chen Sheng demonstrated the technique, his body flowing through the movements with perfect grace. His form seemed to blur and multiply, creating multiple afterimages that made it impossible to track his real position.

Zhu Zhuqing watched with wide eyes, memorizing every detail. When he finished, she immediately attempted to copy the movements.

Her first try was clumsy and uncoordinated. She stumbled and nearly fell.

"That's okay! Try again," Chen Sheng said encouragingly. "Nobody gets it perfect on the first attempt. Here, let me show you that part again more slowly."

She tried again. Better, but still far from correct.

"Good improvement! But adjust your foot placement like this—see?" Chen Sheng demonstrated patiently. "Your weight distribution should shift here, and your timing needs to sync with your breathing rhythm."

And again.

And again.

For hours, Zhu Zhuqing practiced under Chen Sheng's patient, detailed instruction. He corrected every mistake with helpful precision rather than harsh criticism, always encouraging her progress while pointing out areas for improvement.

"You're getting it! That was much better!" Chen Sheng praised when she executed a particularly good sequence. "See? Your body's starting to flow more naturally now."

Sweat soaked through her clothes, her muscles burned with exhaustion, but she refused to stop or complain.

Chen Sheng's encouraging teaching style made her want to work even harder.

This is what I needed. Someone who believes in me and pushes me to improve!

Chen Sheng observed her determination with approval. She's really dedicated. With proper guidance, she could become quite formidable.

By the time they finished, Zhu Zhuqing could barely stand. Her legs trembled, her breathing came in heavy gasps, but her eyes blazed with satisfied accomplishment.

"You've reached beginner level already," Chen Sheng said with a proud smile. "That's actually really impressive for just one night of practice! You're learning extremely fast because of your martial soul's natural affinity for speed-based techniques."

"Thank you," Zhu Zhuqing said sincerely, bowing despite her exhaustion. "This training is exactly what I needed. And you're such a good teacher!"

"We'll continue tomorrow night," Chen Sheng said warmly. "Get some rest now—you've earned it!"

Zhu Zhuqing watched him leave with a friendly wave, complex emotions swirling in her heart—gratitude, admiration, and something deeper she didn't want to examine too closely.

---

The three hidden observers had watched everything in stunned silence.

Xiao Wu felt guilty for doubting her brother's intentions. He really was just training her! And he was being so nice and supportive about it!

Ning Rongrong felt even more jealous now. That looked like incredibly valuable training! And Brother Sheng is such a patient teacher! I want him to teach me too!

Tang San felt inadequate once again. Brother Sheng's movement technique is remarkable, and he teaches with such confidence and skill. How does he know so much?

---

Three days passed like this, with Chen Sheng training Zhu Zhuqing in secluded late-night sessions while spending his days travelling in soto city.

During these three days, Chen Sheng accumulated 11 treasure chests from Zhu Zhuqing and the others—earned through their various emotional responses to his continued impressive abilities and mysterious activities.

On the final evening before training resumed, Chen Sheng sat in his room with Zhu Zhuqing practicing Phantom Steps nearby. He opened all his accumulated rewards systematically.

"System, open all treasure chests."

---

『Treasure Chest: Thunder Domain Insight Card』

Chen Sheng's eyes lit up with excitement!

He immediately used the card, and profound understanding of thunder attribute domain construction flooded his consciousness!

Lightning crackled around his body as a second domain began forming—this one merging with his Ancient White Tiger martial soul!

『Domain Acquired: Thunder Domain』

Thunder Domain Effects:

- Lightning Attribute Amplification: Boosts all thunder-based attacks by 100%

- Paralysis Field: All enemies within domain suffer continuous minor paralysis, slowing their movements by 30%

- Thunder Judgment Enhancement: Chen Sheng's Thunder Judgment ability becomes 50% stronger and can target twice as many enemies

- ThunderStorm Manifestation: Can summon actual lightning from the sky within domain range

- Range: 300 meters radius, expandable with spirit power investment

"Awesome! Now I have two domains!" Chen Sheng said enthusiastically. "Sacred Domain from my Archangel and Thunder Domain from my Ancient White Tiger!"

---

『Treasure Chest: Historical Encyclopedia』

"Not useful right now." Stored.

---

『Treasure Chest: Life and Death Attribute Crystals』

"Oh, this is good!"

Chen Sheng immediately merged these attributes with his Twenty-Winged Archangel martial soul!

The sacred angel blazed with new power as Life and Death attributes integrated perfectly with its existing Light, Darkness, Ice, and Fire elements!

『Martial Soul Enhancement: Now contains six complete elemental attributes—Light, Darkness, Ice, Fire, Life, Death』

His Sacred Domain also evolved, gaining new capabilities:

Life Aura: Can heal severe injuries and even revive those on the brink of death

Death Aura: Can directly drain life force from enemies, killing them slowly within the domain

Chen Sheng smiled with satisfaction. "Perfect! My Archangel martial soul has become really versatile now!"

---

At that moment, Chen Sheng made a decision.

He quietly approached where Zhu Zhuqing practiced, her focus completely absorbed in perfecting her Phantom Steps movements.

Without her noticing, Chen Sheng activated a Martial Soul Improvement Card he had been saving—but this time, he directed its enhancement toward Zhu Zhuqing's Hell Civet martial soul!

Golden light surrounded Zhu Zhuqing silently as her martial soul underwent transformation!

The Hell Civet began changing—its form becoming more refined, more powerful. Its eyes blazed with sharper intelligence, its claws grew longer and deadlier, and its aura intensified dramatically!

『Martial Soul Evolution: Nether Hell Cat (Top-Grade Beast Spirit)』

More remarkably, Zhu Zhuqing's spirit power suddenly surged! From level 28, it jumped to level 30—crossing the threshold where she could obtain her third spirit ring!

Zhu Zhuqing gasped and stopped practicing immediately, feeling the tremendous changes flowing through her body!

"What... what's happening?!" she exclaimed, looking at her hands in shock. "My spirit power just increased so much! And my martial soul feels completely different—stronger, sharper, more refined!"

She summoned her martial soul and stared in amazement. The Nether Hell Cat was clearly superior to her previous Hell Civet in every way!

"I reached level 30!" Zhu Zhuqing's voice trembled with shock and joy. "How is this possible?! I was only level 28 a moment ago!"

She turned toward Chen Sheng with wide eyes full of gratitude and awe. "Your training methods are incredible! Just three days of practicing Phantom Steps brought such tremendous growth!"

Chen Sheng smiled warmly but stayed quiet about what he'd actually done. "Your hard work paid off. The Phantom Steps training must have awakened your martial soul's hidden potential."

He deliberately didn't reveal that he had secretly enhanced her martial soul and boosted her spirit power. Let her believe it was her own effort that brought these changes. That will make her even more motivated to keep training hard.

Zhu Zhuqing's eyes filled with tears of happiness. "Thank you! Thank you so much! I never imagined training could bring such dramatic improvement so quickly!"

『DING! DETECTED Zhu Zhuqing's Overwhelming Gratitude and Deep Affection emotion toward host. Congratulations! Reward: Treasure Chest acquired!』

She also noticed her Phantom Steps technique had improved dramatically—from beginner level to intermediate proficiency in just three days! Movements that had felt clumsy before now flowed naturally.

"Brother Sheng, your teaching is amazing! I feel like a completely different person!" Zhu Zhuqing said enthusiastically.

Chen Sheng nodded with an encouraging smile. "Keep practicing. Your foundation is much stronger now, but there's always room for improvement."

---

『Treasure Chest: Ornamental Bracelet』

"Could be a nice gift." Stored.

---

『Treasure Chest: Ancient Scroll (Illegible)』

"Maybe I'll figure out how to read it later." Stored.

---

『Treasure Chest: Cooking Recipe Book』

"Not really my thing." Stored.

---

『Treasure Chest: Modern World Magazine』

"Might be entertaining." Stored.

---

『Treasure Chest: Decorative Mirror』

"Whatever." Stored.

---

The remaining treasure chests contained various minor items that Chen Sheng stored without much interest.

---

## Next Morning

The next morning, everyone gathered in the main courtyard as instructed by Flender.

Zhu Zhuqing arrived with barely contained excitement, her face glowing with happiness and newfound confidence.

When everyone had assembled, she took a deep breath and announced proudly:

"Actually, I also reached level 30!"

The reaction was immediate and dramatic.

"What?!" Multiple voices shouted in shock.

"You reached level 30?!" Ning Rongrong's eyes went wide. "But you were only level 28 three days ago! How is that possible?!"

Ma Hongjun's jaw dropped. "Two levels in three days?! That's insane!"

Oscar looked confused. "Did you eat some miracle medicine or something?"

Tang San's expression showed complicated emotions—surprise, inadequacy, and growing suspicion about what kind of "training" Chen Sheng had been providing.

Dai Mubai felt bitter resignation. Even Zhu Zhuqing is advancing faster than me now...

Zhao Wuji and Flender exchanged shocked glances, both clearly impressed by such rapid advancement.

Yu Xiaogang's expression showed jealousy and frustration. How does Chen Sheng's training produce such dramatic results? My theories can't explain this!

『DING! DETECTED yu Xiaogang Confusion and envy emotion toward host. Congratulations! Reward: Treasure Chest acquired!』

Only Xiao Wu looked at Chen Sheng with knowing eyes, understanding that her brother had somehow helped Zhu Zhuqing advance so quickly.

Flender stepped forward, his expression showing interest. "Zhu Zhuqing, this is excellent news! Since you've reached level 30, you'll need a third spirit ring as well."

He turned toward Chen Sheng with evaluating gaze. "Chen Sheng, given your strength and experience helping Xiao Wu during the last incident, would you be willing to accompany Zhu Zhuqing to Star Dou Great Forest and help her obtain her third spirit ring?"

Everyone waited for Chen Sheng's response.

Chen Sheng considered briefly before nodding with a friendly smile. "Sure, no problem. We can leave today if Zhuqing is ready."

Zhu Zhuqing's face lit up with joy. Going on another journey with Brother Sheng!

Ning Rongrong felt intensely jealous. Why does Zhu Zhuqing get all the special attention?!

Xiao Wu's expression showed complex emotions but she trusted her brother completely.

---

Chen Sheng and Zhu Zhuqing departed that same day, traveling at a comfortable pace toward Star Dou Great Forest.

The journey took many days because they moved carefully and maintained proper rest periods. Unlike the rushed group expedition, this was a focused mission with just the two of them.

Zhu Zhuqing felt nervous but excited during the entire trip. Being alone with Chen Sheng for so long gave her complicated feelings she tried hard to suppress.

Chen Sheng remained friendly and approachable throughout the journey, occasionally telling jokes or interesting stories to help her relax. He also provided guidance about combat tactics and spirit beast characteristics.

"You know, the key to fighting spirit beasts is understanding their behavior patterns," Chen Sheng explained during one rest break. "Each type has specific tells before they attack. If you can read those signs, you'll always have the advantage."

Zhu Zhuqing listened carefully, appreciating both his knowledge and his patient teaching style.

---

When they finally entered Star Dou Great Forest, Chen Sheng led Zhu Zhuqing carefully through the outer regions, using his enhanced perception to locate suitable spirit beasts.

After two days of searching, they encountered a perfect target—a Shadow Leopard with approximately 1,700 years of cultivation!

The beast matched Zhu Zhuqing's Nether Hell Cat martial soul perfectly, emphasizing speed and stealth.

"That one's perfect for you," Chen Sheng said with an encouraging smile. "It matches your martial soul really well."

The Shadow Leopard noticed them and immediately attacked with blinding speed!

But Chen Sheng was faster.

He activated his Phantom Steps and intercepted the beast mid-leap, his thunder-wreathed fist connecting with its head!

CRACK!

The Shadow Leopard crashed to the ground, stunned by the paralyzing thunder energy but still alive.

"Alright, Zhuqing, finish it off," Chen Sheng said calmly.

Zhu Zhuqing summoned her Nether Hell Cat martial soul and delivered the killing blow with her enhanced claws.

The spirit ring began forming—a beautiful purple ring representing the Shadow Leopard's 1,700-year cultivation!

"Start absorbing it right away," Chen Sheng instructed with a reassuring smile. "Don't worry—I'll make sure nothing disturbs you."

Zhu Zhuqing sat down in meditation position and started the absorption process.

Chen Sheng stood watch nearby, his eyes scanning the forest for any threats. His Sacred Domain expanded around their position, ready to kill and scare, any approaching dangers.

Hours passed. Zhu Zhuqing's face showed strain as she struggled to absorb the powerful spirit ring, but Chen Sheng's presence nearby gave her confidence and security.

Finally, she opened her eyes with a gasp!

"I did it!" she exclaimed happily. "My third spirit ring!"

A purple ring now orbited her Nether Hell Cat martial soul, and her spirit power had stabilized at level 32!

"Congratulations!" Chen Sheng said warmly. "So what's your new ability?"

"It's called Shadow Clone!" Zhu Zhuqing said excitedly. "I can create up to three shadow clones that move independently for short periods! They can confuse enemies and attack from multiple angles!"

Chen Sheng grinned. "That's awesome! Combined with your Phantom Steps, you're going to be really hard to track in combat. Your enemies won't know which one is the real you!"

---

The return journey to Shrek Academy took several more days.

When they finally arrived back, Chen Sheng was greeted by surprising news.

Oscar rushed up to them immediately. "Brother Sheng! Zhu Zhuqing! You're back! You missed a lot!"

"What happened?" Chen Sheng asked curiously.

"Dean Flender decided we should all start participating in the Soto Great Spirit Arena!" Oscar explained excitedly. "We've already had our first few matches! It's been amazing!"

Ma Hongjun joined them with enthusiasm. "Yeah! The arena battles are intense! Real combat experience against other spirit masters our age!"

Tang San approached as well. "Brother Sheng, the arena matches have been valuable training. You should definitely join us for the next battles."

Chen Sheng's expression showed interest. "The Soto Great Spirit Arena? That sounds fun! When's the next match?"

"Tomorrow evening!" Dai Mubai said. "We're excited to have you join the team!"

Ning Rongrong and Xiao Wu rushed over as well.

"Brother Sheng! You're back!" Xiao Wu smiled brightly. "How was the trip?"

"Really successful," Chen Sheng replied with a friendly smile. "Zhu Zhuqing got her third spirit ring without any problems."

Zhu Zhuqing nodded happily. "Brother Sheng protected me perfectly during the hunt. Everything went smoothly."

Ning Rongrong felt jealous but smiled politely. "That's wonderful! Congratulations, Zhu Zhuqing!"

As everyone gathered around talking excitedly about the arena battles and catching up on recent events, Chen Sheng joined in naturally, asking questions about the matches and their opponents.

The Soto Great Spirit Arena... this should be interesting. Real combat experience against different opponents will be good training for everyone.

Tomorrow, they would enter the arena, and Chen Sheng looked forward to seeing what challenges awaited them.

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