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Chapter 41 An unexpected encounter with Dugu Bo and his grandson
Deep in the forest at sunset, the branches and leaves of towering ancient trees cut the sunlight into fragments, dappling the ground covered with fallen leaves.
Chu Xinghe followed behind Zhan Tiankuang, carefully avoiding the tangled tree roots on the ground. The air was filled with the damp scent of earth, mixed with the fishy smell left by some kind of soul beast.
"Stop." Zhan Tiankuang suddenly raised his hand, his thick arm across Chu Xinghe's chest.
His thick eyebrows furrowed, and his nose twitched slightly. "Something's up."
Chu Xinghe immediately held his breath, his soul power flowing slowly through his meridians, ready to summon his martial soul at any moment.
He followed Zhan Tiankuang's gaze and saw the shadows of the trees swaying in front of him, and two figures gradually becoming clearer.
When Zhan Tiankuang saw who it was, his body stiffened for a moment.
He quickly pressed down on Chu Xinghe's shoulder and whispered, "It's Poison Douluo, don't talk nonsense."
Chu Xinghe's heart skipped a beat. Poison Douluo Dugu Bo? Wasn't this the person he had been longing to meet?
He secretly glanced up and saw an old man with long, dark green hair walking slowly towards him. The old man was tall and thin, with narrow, sharp eyes like a snake, and his whole being exuded a cold aura.
Beside him, a girl with short, dark purple hair was looking around with great interest.
"Junior Zhan Tiankuang greets Your Excellency Poison Douluo." Zhan Tiankuang bowed respectfully, his voice lower than usual.
Dugu Bo nodded slightly, but his gaze fell on Chu Xinghe: "Zhan Tiankuang? The one from Zhan Kuang Academy? Is this your student?"
"Indeed." Zhan Tiankuang patted Chu Xinghe on the back. "Xinghe, quickly pay your respects to His Majesty."
Chu Xinghe bowed obediently, but as he stood up, he deliberately fixed his gaze on Dugu Yan, his eyes revealing just the right amount of amazement.
He gave a genuine, innocent smile like a ten-year-old: "Sister, you're so pretty! Can I get to know you?"
Dugu Yan paused for a moment, then covered her mouth and chuckled softly.
At seventeen, she had blossomed into a graceful young woman, her purple hair contrasting beautifully with her snow-white skin. Her large eyes sparkled with laughter: "Little brother, you have such a sweet tongue. My name is Dugu Yan, and yours is..."
"My name is Chu Xinghe, and I'm ten years old." Chu Xinghe blinked, deliberately making his voice sound childish. "Are you here to hunt for spirit rings, sister?"
Dugu Yan raised an eyebrow in surprise: "How did you know?"
"Because your aura has reached level 30!" Chu Xinghe exclaimed with admiration. "So amazing!"
Zhan Tiankuang's eyes twitched as he listened from the side. This kid had never been so "innocent and cute" in front of him before.
Dugu Bo narrowed his eyes, thoughtfully observing Chu Xinghe.
Chu Xinghe could feel that gaze slithering over him like a snake, but he maintained perfect composure and continued to ask Dugu Yan, "Which academy do you go to, sister? It must be a very prestigious one, right?"
"I'm at the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy." Dugu Yan's tone was filled with pride. She turned to look at Dugu Bo, "Grandpa, this child has good taste."
Chu Xinghe immediately revealed a look of surprise: "Really? My goal is also to get into the Heaven Dou Royal Academy!"
He clenched his fists, his eyes sparkling, "I hope we can be schoolmates in the future!"
Dugu Yan was amused by his enthusiasm and reached out to ruffle his hair: "Then you'd better do your best. The entrance exam for the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy is not easy."
"I will try my best!" Chu Xinghe nodded emphatically, but his mind was racing.
This chance encounter went even more smoothly than he had expected. He not only confirmed Dugu Yan's identity but also left a positive impression on her.
Dugu Bo suddenly stepped forward, looking down at Chu Xinghe: "Boy, what is your martial spirit?"
The air seemed to freeze instantly.
Chu Xinghe could feel Zhan Tiankuang's body tense up, but he himself remained calm and looked up to meet Dugu Bo's scrutinizing gaze: "Your Majesty, my martial soul is Agumon."
"Agumon?" Dugu Bo frowned. "I've lived most of my life and have never heard of such a martial spirit."
Chu Xinghe had already prepared his explanation: "It's a newly emerged mutated martial soul. My parents are ordinary people without soul power."
He deliberately feigned a confused expression, saying, "Even my teacher said he's never seen one before."
Zhan Tiankuang interjected at the opportune moment: "Indeed, Your Majesty. When this child awakened his martial spirit, even the deacons of the Spirit Hall were taken aback."
Dugu Bo did not respond, but stared intently at Chu Xinghe with his snake-like eyes.
Chu Xinghe felt a chill creep up his spine; the pressure from a Title Douluo was indeed extraordinary.
But he suppressed his discomfort and maintained an innocent expression.
A glint of light flashed in Dugu Bo's eyes: "Release your martial spirit and let this old man see it."
Zhan Tiankuang's expression changed slightly: "Your Majesty, this child..."
"What? I'm not even qualified to look at a martial spirit?" Dugu Bo said coldly.
Chu Xinghe quickly waved his hand: "Teacher, it's alright."
He took a deep breath, "Agumon, possess me!"
As his soul power surged, orange dragon scale patterns appeared on Chu Xinghe's body, his hands transformed into sharp claws, and his eyes became vertical pupils.
Most strikingly, he exuded an ancient and majestic aura.
Dugu Bo's pupils suddenly contracted, and he involuntarily took half a step back.
A shiver ran through the Azure Phosphorous Serpent Emperor Martial Soul within him, something that had never happened before.
"Is this Agumon?" Dugu Yan curiously approached, but was pulled back by Dugu Bo.
"Don't get too close." Dugu Bo's voice was low, and his eyes flashed with vigilance.
He suppressed the strange sensations emanating from his martial spirit and said in a deep voice, "Put it away."
Chu Xinghe deactivated his martial soul possession and asked innocently, "Your Majesty, is there something wrong with my martial soul?"
Dugu Bo did not answer immediately, but instead gave Chu Xinghe a deep look: "Mutant martial soul... interesting."
After a long while, Dugu Bo finally looked away and asked Zhan Tiankuang, "You've come here to hunt for spirit rings?"
"Yes, Your Majesty. Xinghe has just broken through to level 20," Zhan Tiankuang replied respectfully.
"Level 20?" Dugu Yan's eyes widened in surprise. "You're only ten years old, right? You've got quite the talent."
Chu Xinghe scratched his head sheepishly: "I'm still far from it. My sister is already level 30."
Dugu Bo looked at Zhan Tiankuang and said, "Your student is not simple."
Zhan Tiankuang chuckled twice: "Your Majesty flatters me. He's just a kid with a bit of talent."
Dugu Bo said no more, turned around and said, "Yanyan, let's go."
Although Dugu Yan was puzzled by her grandfather's sudden decision, she still nodded obediently.
She waved to Chu Xinghe: "Good luck! I look forward to seeing you at the Heaven Dou Royal Academy."
Chu Xinghe nodded vigorously: "I definitely will! Goodbye, sister!"
Watching the two figures disappear into the distance, Chu Xinghe secretly breathed a sigh of relief.
He had deliberately suppressed the "Dinosaur Killer" characteristic, but it had clearly still triggered the reaction of Dugu Bo's martial spirit.
However, he confirmed that Dugu Yan was indeed at the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy and had left a good impression on her, which meant that his future plans could proceed smoothly.
"You brat, the way you were acting just now was disgusting." After the two had walked away, Zhan Tiankuang slapped Chu Xinghe on the back of the head. "Why aren't you so well-behaved in front of me?"
Chu Xinghe rubbed his head and resumed his normal tone: "Teacher, that's Poison Douluo. I'm just thinking about our safety."
Zhan Tiankuang snorted: "You're quick-witted. But..."
His expression turned serious. "Dugu Bo seems to care a lot about you, which is not a good thing."
Chu Xinghe felt a chill run down his spine. Had Zhan Tiankuang noticed it too?
He shrugged casually, "Maybe it's because my martial spirit is rather special."
At the same time, a hundred meters away, Dugu Bo suddenly stopped.
"Grandpa?" Dugu Yan looked at him in confusion.
Dugu Bo frowned: "Yanyan, what are your feelings for that child?"
Dugu Yan thought for a moment: "He's a very polite and handsome kid, and quite talented too. What's wrong, Grandpa?"
Dugu Bo's eyes deepened: "That kid seems to have a power hidden within him that even I fear."
"What?!" Dugu Yan's eyes widened in shock. "You're a Title Douluo! How could you treat a ten-year-old child like this..."
"I can't explain it," Dugu Bo shook his head. "It's just a gut feeling. His martial spirit... is definitely not as simple as some kind of mutated soul beast."
He turned back to look in the direction Chu Xinghe had left, a hint of wariness flashing in his eyes. "Be careful if you run into him again next time."
Dugu Yan nodded thoughtfully, a new curiosity arose in her heart about the innocent-looking little boy.
On the other side of the forest, Chu Xinghe suddenly shivered.
He turned around as if sensing something, but only saw layers upon layers of tree shadows.
"What's wrong?" Zhan Tiankuang asked.
"It's nothing." Chu Xinghe looked away. "Teacher, let's continue searching for soul beasts."
But he knew in his heart that Dugu Bo might have already noticed something.
This seemingly accidental encounter may change his original plans.
But it's alright. Chu Xinghe clenched his fist; he had long been prepared to deal with all sorts of variables.
He was determined to obtain the immortal herb from the Yin-Yang Well of Ice and Fire.
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Chapter 42, Second Soul Skill: Small Flame
After parting ways with Dugu Bo and his grandson, the forest returned to silence.
Chu Xinghe followed Zhan Tiankuang deeper into the Sunset Forest, the fallen leaves rustling beneath their feet.
"Teacher, which direction should we look?" Chu Xinghe asked in a low voice.
After months of grueling training at the War Maniac Academy, he has developed a habit of remaining vigilant at all times.
Zhan Tiankuang stopped and took out a yellowed map from his pocket: "Fire-attribute soul beasts often appear in this area."
He looked up at the setting sun and said, "However, it's probably not so easy to encounter dragon-type soul beasts that are less than a thousand years old."
Chu Xinghe nodded.
He was well aware of the rarity of dragon-type soul beasts, but deep down he still held a sliver of hope.
"Don't overthink it." Zhan Tiankuang seemed to see through his thoughts. "Once you are strong enough, your teacher will take you to more dangerous places to find dragon-type soul beasts."
"I understand." Chu Xinghe's eyes were firm.
The two continued on their way, with Zhan Tiankuang explaining the habits of fire-attribute soul beasts as they walked.
Suddenly, he crouched down and parted a clump of bushes: "Look at this, it should have been left by some kind of large feline spirit beast."
Chu Xinghe leaned closer to examine the claw marks and noticed that the soil around the edges was charred black: "Fire attribute?"
"Smart." Zhan Tiankuang grinned. "Let's go, follow the trail."
Just then, a deafening roar came from afar.
The two followed the sound and, after passing through the bushes, a huge lion appeared before them.
Its entire body was covered in hair like burning flames, with a striking tuft of golden-red mane on its forehead.
"Crimson Flame Lion!" Zhan Tiankuang's eyes lit up. "Seven hundred years of cultivation, just right."
Chu Xinghe quickly assessed the soul beast in front of him. Although it was not a dragon, it was indeed a rather good fire-attribute soul beast.
"Watch closely." Zhan Tiankuang calmly released his martial spirit.
A giant, crimson bear phantom appeared behind him, and six spirit rings rose in succession: yellow, yellow, purple, purple, black, and black.
As a six-ring Soul Emperor, he doesn't need to use Soul Skills to deal with Soul Beasts of this level.
Upon detecting the intruder, the Crimson Lion immediately went into battle mode. It slammed its front paws into the ground, unleashing a wave of fire.
Zhan Tiankuang neither dodged nor evaded, but strode forward directly into the flames.
The Fiery Demon Bear Martial Soul granted him extremely strong fire resistance; even an attack of this magnitude wouldn't burn the hem of his clothes.
He grabbed the Crimson Flame Lion's front paw and swung the massive soul beast like a sandbag, slamming it heavily to the ground.
"Roar!" The Crimson Flame Lion cried out in pain and struggled to get up.
Zhan Tiankuang stepped on its back, turned to Chu Xinghe and shouted, "Kid, the final blow is up to you!"
Chu Xinghe was already prepared, and his first spirit ring lit up: "Crimson Dragon Claw!"
His hands transformed into flaming claws, and he charged towards the Crimson Flame Lion.
The Crimson Flame Lion sensed danger and struggled desperately, but was firmly suppressed by Zhan Tiankuang.
Chu Xinghe seized the opportunity, his flaming claws piercing precisely into the Crimson Flame Lion's throat, the scorching claw force severing its trachea.
The Crimson Flame Lion let out a final wail before its massive body crashed to the ground.
A bright yellow spirit ring slowly rose up.
"Well done!" Zhan Tiankuang nodded in satisfaction. "A seven-hundred-year-old Crimson Flame Lion is the perfect second soul ring."
Chu Xinghe was panting heavily, sweat constantly sliding down his forehead.
Although the battle was short, it consumed a great deal of physical and spiritual energy.
"Now, prepare to absorb the spirit ring," Zhan Tiankuang said solemnly. "The Crimson Flame Lion's fire attribute is domineering, and the absorption process may be very painful."
Chu Xinghe sat down cross-legged and took a deep breath.
During his grueling training at the War Maniac Academy, he had long since become accustomed to enduring all kinds of pain.
Guided by the power of the soul, the yellow soul ring slowly descended.
In an instant, a surge of scorching energy rushed into his body. Chu Xinghe felt as if magma was pouring into his meridians, and the intense pain made him clench his teeth.
But he didn't make a sound; the past few months of training had taught him to overcome pain with willpower.
The energy of the spirit ring surged wildly within his body, and Chu Xinghe carefully guided it along his meridians.
With each cycle, some energy is absorbed and transformed.
"Hold on!" Zhan Tiankuang's voice came from afar.
Chu Xinghe concentrated all his energy and attention on the circulation of his soul power.
Gradually, the burning sensation began to subside, replaced by a warm energy that filled my entire body.
When the last bit of energy was absorbed, Chu Xinghe slowly opened his eyes.
[Second Soul Skill: Small Flame (Releases a fireball with immense destructive power that explodes upon impact. The fireball can be charged; the longer the charge time, the larger the fireball and the stronger the explosion.)]
By this time, it was completely dark, and Zhan Tiankuang was waiting by his side.
"Did you succeed?" Zhan Tiankuang asked.
Chu Xinghe nodded and stood up.
He felt the soul power flowing within his body, which was much stronger than before.
Chu Xinghe took the initiative to say, "Teacher, I have obtained a ranged attack soul skill."
As he spoke, he raised his right hand, and his second spirit ring lit up.
A fireball the size of a fist condensed in his palm, then shot out, striking a tree trunk ten meters away and leaving a charred mark.
"Small flame? Not bad!" Zhan Tiankuang nodded in satisfaction. "Although it's a basic fireball spell, its power and range will increase as your soul power improves."
Chu Xinghe clenched his fist, feeling the power he had just gained.
Although it's not the most ideal dragon-type spirit ring, the fire ability granted by the Crimson Flame Lion is indeed practical.
His first soul skill, Crimson Dragon Claw, provides him with powerful melee capabilities, while his second soul skill, Small Flame, compensates for his lack of ranged attack methods.
Zhan Tiankuang grinned, draping his thick arm over Chu Xinghe's shoulder: "Kid, you've absorbed your second soul ring, what's your soul power level now?"
Chu Xinghe focused his gaze forward, and a clear data panel appeared before his eyes: [Soul Power: Level 21 (55%)].
He looked up with a joyful smile: "I'm level twenty-one, teacher. The Crimson Flame Lion's soul ring directly boosted my soul power by one and a half levels. After some more training back home, I should be able to break through to level twenty-two soon."
"Hahaha!" Zhan Tiankuang patted him hard on the back, making Chu Xinghe stagger. "A seven-hundred-year soul ring is indeed extraordinary! My second soul ring was only five hundred years old back then. You're lucky, kid!"
Chu Xinghe rubbed his shoulder, which had been slapped so hard, and a determined look flashed in his eyes: "Teacher, I plan to take the entrance exam for the Heaven Dou Royal Academy in the second half of the year."
Zhan Tiankuang's smile suddenly froze, and a barely perceptible hint of desolation flashed across his rugged face.
He was silent for a moment, then turned to look at the shadows of the trees in the distance, his voice lowering slightly: "...Leaving so soon?"
Chu Xinghe noticed the sudden dimming in his teacher's eyes and his heart tightened. But he knew that if he wanted to become stronger faster, the Heaven Dou Royal Academy was the only way.
Zhan Tiankuang suddenly turned around, a triumphant smile returning to his face: "Good! That's spirited!" He pressed heavily on Chu Xinghe's shoulder, "Go back and prepare well, and bring me back first place! Don't disgrace Zhan Kuang Academy!"
Although the teacher acted nonchalant, Chu Xinghe clearly saw the complex emotions flashing in his eyes.
The experiences of the past few months have already forged a deep bond between the master and apprentice.
In the stillness of the night, Chu Xinghe lay in the temporary camp, gazing at the starlight shining through the gaps in the leaves.
Today's chance encounter gave him an unexpected surprise. He not only met Dugu Yan, but also confirmed that she was indeed studying at the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy.
"The Eye of Ice and Fire..." Chu Xinghe murmured the name in his heart.
There lies the key to changing his destiny: a magical herb that can alter his physique and enhance his soul power.
If he could obtain those immortal herbs, his cultivation speed would increase dramatically. However, Dugu Bo's vigilance made him realize that the plan had to be more cautious.
During the martial spirit demonstration today, Dugu Bo clearly sensed something amiss. This made him realize that future actions would require more thorough preparation.
"What are you thinking about?" Zhan Tiankuang's voice suddenly rang out.
Chu Xinghe snapped out of his thoughts: "I was thinking about today's battle. Thank you, teacher."
Zhan Tian snorted: "Stop with the nonsense. Go to sleep, we have to travel tomorrow."
Chu Xinghe smiled and closed his eyes.
The road ahead is still long, but today's achievements have already exceeded expectations.
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Chapter 43 Return to Hope City
The next day, the sun rose.
Chu Xinghe followed Zhan Tiankuang and embarked on the forest path back to Hope City.
The morning dew dampened his trouser legs, but it did not affect his repeated practice of his newly acquired second soul skill.
"Watch closely, kid!" Zhan Tiankuang suddenly turned around and swung his thick arm. "That's not how you use fire."
He conjured a ball of crimson flame in his palm, and with a flick of his wrist, the fireball traced a graceful arc in the air, striking a dead tree thirty meters away with pinpoint accuracy.
Chu Xinghe's eyes lit up, and he immediately imitated the teacher's actions.
He took a deep breath, and his second spirit ring lit up, a fireball the size of a fist condensing in his palm.
"go!"
The fireball roared out, but veered off course halfway and crashed into a tree trunk.
"Hahaha!" Zhan Tiankuang laughed loudly, "Your accuracy is still far from perfect! Remember, soul skills are not inanimate objects; you must feel their trajectory with your heart."
Chu Xinghe nodded and continued practicing.
From dawn to noon, his clothes were soaked with sweat, but the accuracy of his fireballs steadily improved.
When the seventeenth fireball finally hit its target, Zhan Tiankuang patted him on the shoulder with satisfaction.
"Not bad, you've improved. But in real combat, the enemy won't stand still." Zhan Tiankuang said, then suddenly took a step to the side. "Come on, try hitting me while I'm moving."
And so, the master and apprentice continued their journey, practicing as they went, and what should have been a half-day's walk took until dusk.
When the towering walls of Hope City finally came into view, Chu Xinghe was already able to hit Zhan Tiankuang's rapidly moving figure repeatedly.
"Go to the Spirit Hall first." Zhan Tiankuang wiped his sweat. "Update your Spirit Master certificate."
The Spirit Hall in Hope City is much more impressive than the one in Notting City.
The towering dome was covered with various martial spirit patterns, and a statue of a six-winged angel stood in the center of the hall.
As soon as the two stepped into the hall, a middle-aged man dressed in a white robe with silver patterns quickly came to greet them.
"Dean Zhan, it is an honor to have you here! I have not been able to greet you properly!" The badge on the man's chest indicated his Soul Master level strength. "I am Zhao Ming, a deacon of the Spirit Hall. May I ask how I can be of service?"
Zhan Tiankuang's rough voice echoed in the hall: "Bring my disciple here to apply for the Great Soul Master certification."
As she spoke, she pushed Chu Xinghe forward.
Deacon Zhao's gaze fell on Chu Xinghe, and his eyes suddenly lit up: "Isn't this the genius soul master from the Great Soul Arena?"
He turned to Zhan Tiankuang in surprise, "If I remember correctly, his soul power was only level 15 five months ago, right? He's already a Great Soul Master so quickly?"
Zhan Tiankuang stroked his beard smugly: "How bad could the disciples I've taught be?"
Just then, the golden door deep inside the hall suddenly opened. An elderly man in a long robe, wearing a Soul Emperor badge on his chest, walked slowly in, and the Soul Masters along the way bowed in greeting.
"Your Excellency Bishop Derek!" Deacon Zhao bowed immediately.
Bishop Derek nodded slightly, his sharp gaze falling directly on Chu Xinghe: "Is this the little guy with the mutated martial soul?"
His voice was gentle yet carried an undeniable authority, "Child, would you like to join the Spirit Hall Academy after graduation? With your talent, you will surely receive the best training."
The hall fell silent immediately.
Everyone knows what it means to be personally recruited by the bishop.
Chu Xinghe bowed respectfully and said, "Thank you for your kindness, Bishop, but I have already decided to apply to the Heaven Dou Royal Academy."
A hint of surprise flashed in Derek's eyes, then he smiled and said, "That's ambitious. But the gates of the Spirit Hall are always open for you."
After saying this, he nodded to Zhan Tiankuang and then turned to leave.
After the bishop left, Deacon Zhao wiped the cold sweat from his forehead and quickly took Chu Xinghe to take the certification test.
When the crystal ball lit up with a level 21 light, a chorus of exclamations arose from the surrounding area.
"A level 21 Great Soul Master, receiving a monthly stipend of ten gold soul coins." As Deacon Zhao handed the brand-new badge to Chu Xinghe, he couldn't help but whisper, "Little fellow, do you know how great an opportunity you just rejected?"
Chu Xinghe simply smiled politely and carefully put the badge away.
As they walked out of the Spirit Hall, Zhan Tiankuang suddenly burst into laughter and grabbed his shoulder, saying, "Good lad! You even dared to refuse the Spirit Hall's offer of recruitment. You truly deserve to be my disciple!"
...
Returning to the War Maniac Academy, the familiar training grounds and dormitories gave Chu Xinghe a feeling of coming home.
After a brief rest, he immediately immersed himself in his regular cultivation routine.
As the first rays of sunlight streamed into the classroom, Chu Xinghe was already seated in his seat for the theory class.
Today's lesson is "Soul Beast Characteristics and Soul Ring Selection," and the white-haired old teacher is explaining the characteristics of soul beasts with different attributes.
"Fire-attribute soul beasts are usually highly aggressive, and the soul skills they provide are mainly offensive..." Chu Xinghe took careful notes, occasionally asking a few questions.
His thirst for knowledge was greatly appreciated by the old professor, who often answered his questions privately after class.
The Great Soul Arena is always bustling in the afternoon.
Chu Xinghe stood in the contestant tunnel, listening to the shouts of the audience outside, and adjusted his breathing.
This is his third time participating in an individual competition this week.
"Next up is Chu Xinghe, who possesses the mutated martial soul 'Agumon'!" The host's voice resounded throughout the venue through the amplified soul guide device.
Chu Xinghe strode onto the arena, facing a young man wielding a long staff. "Level 23 Weapon Soul Master, Martial Soul: Green Bamboo Staff, please enlighten me."
The opponent clasped his hands in a gesture of respect.
"Level 21 Beast Soul Master, Martial Soul: Agumon." The moment Chu Xinghe returned the greeting, he had already completed the Martial Soul Possession.
Orange scales covered his arms, and crimson flames danced on his claws.
"The match begins!"
The Green Bamboo Staff Soul Master launched the first attack, his long staff stabbing out like a serpent.
Chu Xinghe neither dodged nor evaded, activating his first soul skill, "Crimson Flame Dragon Claw." The burning claws directly grabbed the long staff, and the scorching flames instantly charred the bamboo staff.
The opponent was shocked and before he could change his move, Chu Xinghe's second spirit ring lit up.
"Second Soul Skill, Small Flame!"
A fireball erupted at close range, blasting the opponent off the stage.
The audience erupted in enthusiastic cheers.
Chu Xinghe bowed slightly, then turned and left.
Such battles have been repeated countless times in the past two weeks, and each victory has enriched his combat experience.
As night fell, only Chu Xinghe remained on the academy's training ground.
He was shirtless, doing push-ups in the moonlight.
Sweat slid down his muscular physique, pooling into a small puddle on the ground.
"Nine hundred and ninety-eight, nine hundred and ninety-nine, one thousand!" Chu Xinghe stood up, panting, and picked up a towel to wipe his face.
The grueling training over the past few months has given him a physical ability far exceeding that of his peers; at just ten years old, he already has clearly defined muscle lines.
After taking a shower and returning to his dormitory, Chu Xinghe did not rest immediately, but instead sat cross-legged on his bed and began to meditate.
The soul power within the body flowed slowly along the meridians like a gentle stream.
He could clearly feel that he was getting closer and closer to the bottleneck of level 22.
This cycle of theory, practice, and physical training continued for a full half month, day after day.
On an ordinary morning, when Chu Xinghe finished meditating and opened his eyes, he felt a qualitative change in the soul power within his body.
"I've broken through!" He excitedly pumped his fist.
The level 22 soul power surged through his meridians, becoming even more abundant than before.
He couldn't wait to run to the training ground to test it and found that the "small flame" was nearly 20% more powerful and its range had increased by three meters.
Zhan Tiankuang appeared at the edge of the training field at some point, watching Chu Xinghe practice with his arms crossed. "Not bad, kid."
He grinned, "At this rate, I should have no problem taking the entrance exam for the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy in the second half of the year."
Chu Xinghe stopped his movements, turned around, and bowed to his teacher: "It's all thanks to your excellent teaching, teacher."
"Stop flattering me!" Zhan Tian laughed and cursed.
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Chapter 44 The Challenge from Tianling Academy
The morning light pierced through the thin mist, gilding the stone buildings of the War Mad Academy with a golden edge.
Two figures, one old and one young, stood silently in front of the academy gate.
The old man wore a moon-white robe, with a crystal-clear longsword hanging at his waist. The star patterns on the scabbard shimmered with an eerie light in the sunlight.
The boy was about fifteen or sixteen years old, holding a twelve-foot-long silver spear, the tip of which gleamed coldly.
"Bai Chen from Tianling Academy, along with his disciples, has come to pay a visit." The old man's voice was not loud, but it clearly resounded throughout the entire academy.
Inside the office, Zhan Tiankuang paused slightly, his thick eyebrows raised, as he held a teacup. "Why is this old fox here?"
He put down his teacup and strode towards the courtyard gate.
"Hahaha!" Zhan Tian Kuangren's voice preceded his arrival, "Old Bai, what wind blew you here today?"
Bai Chen smiled and bowed respectfully: "Brother Zhan, how have you been? I heard that your academy has produced a prodigy with a mutated martial soul, so I brought Wuya here specifically to broaden his horizons."
The boy standing behind Bai Chen stepped forward, his silver spear pointing diagonally at the ground, and gave a standard Soul Master salute: "Yun Wuyai of Tianling Academy greets Dean Zhan."
The boy had a clear voice and proper manners, but his bright, star-like eyes burned with an undisguised fighting spirit.
Zhan Tiankuang's copper bell-like eyes swept over Yun Wuyai, finally settling on the Star Spear. He grinned and said, "Old man Bai, did you bring people here to cause trouble?"
Bai Chen stroked his long beard, the Heavenly Star Sword trembling slightly at his waist: "Brother Zhan, you flatter me. It's just to let the outstanding students from both academies learn from each other and improve together."
The aroma of tea wafted through the reception room.
Zhan Tiankuang sat imposingly in the main seat, his thick arms resting on the armrests of the chair, his knuckles rhythmically tapping the wooden armrests.
"Everyone in Hope City knows that your Heavenly Spirit Academy and our War Madness Academy have always had differing philosophies." Zhan Tiankuang narrowed his eyes. "You believe that weapon-type martial spirits are the best in the world, while we insist that beast-type martial spirits are the true path. Over the years, your Heavenly Spirit Academy has come to 'exchange and learn' quite a few times."
Bai Chen picked up his teacup and gently blew away the floating leaves: "Brother Zhan, you are mistaken. The path of martial spirits is different but leads to the same goal. I have come here today with the sincere intention of seeking your guidance."
"Stop with the flowery language!" Zhan Tiankuang suddenly slammed his hand on the table and stood up, causing the solid wood coffee table to crack open. "If you want to fight, then fight, but we have to add some stakes!"
Bai Chen calmly put down his teacup: "Brother Zhan, what are your thoughts?"
"The losing side," Zhan Tiankuang's eyes flashed with a sharp light, "will erect a monument in the center of the city for three months, inscribed with 'So-and-so Academy's skills are inferior! How about it?"
Upon hearing this, Yun Wuyai's Star Spear trembled involuntarily.
Bai Chen remained calm, but the starlight on the Heavenly Star Sword flowed noticeably faster.
"Brother Zhan is as straightforward as ever," Bai Chen chuckled. "However, Wuya has already broken through to level twenty-five. I wonder who in your academy..."
"Bullshit!" Zhan Tiankuang interrupted directly, "If Xinghe loses, I'll write the word 'war' backwards!"
Bai Chen finally stopped smiling, and the Heavenly Star Sword emitted a clear and melodious sword cry: "Since Brother Zhan insists so much, then so be it."
Zhan Tiankuang snorted coldly; he hated these smiling tigers the most.
They're clearly here to challenge us, but they insist on putting on a sanctimonious act.
...
On the training field, the scorching sun baked the earth, and Chu Xinghe's figure was faintly visible in the sand and dust.
He stretched out his arms, his ten fingers forming claws, and crimson flames flowed and coiled between his fingers like living things. Each swing brought up a scorching wave of air, distorting and deforming the surrounding air.
"Crimson Dragon Claw!" With a low shout, the flames suddenly surged, condensing into a ferocious dragon claw phantom in front of him.
A hundred paces away, Yun Wuyai followed behind Zhan Tiankuang and Bai Chen, the silver-white Star Spear trembling uneasily behind him, its tip flashing with cold light.
He narrowed his eyes, his gaze piercing through the heatwave on the training field like a blade, locking onto the figure surrounded by flames.
"That's the legendary mutated martial soul, Agumon?" Yun Wuyai's lips curled into a cold smile. "It looks... nothing special."
Just then, Chu Xinghe seemed to sense something and suddenly turned around.
Their gazes met in mid-air. Yun Wuyai's fighting spirit burned even brighter, while the flames around Chu Xinghe burned even more fiercely.
...
The midday sun blazed down on the central arena, while the surrounding stands were already packed to capacity, with waves of noise rising and falling.
Chu Xinghe slowly stepped onto the arena, each step seemingly treading on countless questioning gazes.
After all, he was only level 22, while the soul power fluctuations surrounding the boy opposite him were clearly much stronger than his.
"Remember my name, Yun Wuyai." Yun Wuyai flicked his wrist, and the Star Spear drew a cold arc, its tip pointing directly at Chu Xinghe. His tone was chilling, "This will be the beginning of your nightmare."
Just as the referee announced the start of the competition, Yun Wuyai's figure suddenly disappeared, transforming into a streak of silver lightning that streaked across the sky!
The first spirit ring suddenly lit up, and dozens of dazzling starlight burst forth from the tip of the Star Spear, pouring down like a cascading Milky Way, covering the sky and the earth.
"First Soul Skill, Starlight Sprinkles!"
Chu Xinghe planted his feet firmly on the ground, and his Crimson Flame Dragon Claw drew a blazing circle of fire in front of him.
Surprisingly, he did not use any defensive soul skills, but instead released the most basic "small flame".
But each cluster of flames precisely intercepted a ray of starlight, and the exploding flames and starlight intertwined, dazzling like fireworks, eliciting a gasp from the audience.
"Interesting." Yun Wuyai's eyes blazed with fighting spirit, and his second spirit ring suddenly emitted a dazzling light!
He leaped into the air, his body soaring ten zhang into the sky. Under the blazing sun, the Star Spear looked like a real meteor falling!
"Second Soul Skill, Meteor Fall!"
Chu Xinghe looked up at the increasingly bright starlight, and suddenly, he noticed that Yun Wuyai's right wrist, which was holding the gun, was slightly bent unnaturally!
It's a hidden injury left over from the last training session!
In a flash, Chu Xinghe pretended to stumble backward, deliberately exposing his left side.
As expected, Yun Wuyai immediately adjusted his falling trajectory, and the Star Spear pierced straight for his left shoulder!
However, just as the spear tip was about to pierce through flesh and blood, Chu Xinghe twisted his body strangely, and his Crimson Dragon Claw suddenly shot out, gripping the spear shaft tightly!
"Sizzle—"
The blazing flames spread wildly along the Star Spear, and Yun Wuyai groaned, forced to abandon the spear and retreat.
But Chu Xinghe was faster, and the burning dragon claws were already pressed against his throat like iron clamps!
The entire hall fell into a sudden, deathly silence.
Yun Wuyai could clearly feel the burning sensation in his throat, but what he found even more unbearable was the almost indifferent calm in Chu Xinghe's eyes. It was as if defeating him, a genius from Tianling Academy, was nothing more than a trivial matter.
"You lost." Chu Xinghe's voice was soft, yet it could be clearly heard in the silence.
...
The air below the ring seemed to freeze.
Bai Chen stood still, his face ashen. The soul power surrounding him flickered, like the oppressive thunderclouds before a storm.
When Zhan Tiankuang laughed loudly and slapped him hard on the shoulder, his knuckles inside his sleeve cracked and turned white, but he ultimately did not retaliate.
"Tianling Academy... will erect a monument in the center of Hope City as promised." Bai Chen's voice was as cold as if it had been tempered with ice. As he turned around, his clothes fluttered, bringing with them a biting wind.
Yun Wuyai silently walked to the edge of the arena, bent down and picked up the Star Spear that had fallen to the ground.
On the silver-white gun barrel, several charred claw marks stood out starkly.
As they brushed past each other, he paused slightly, his deep voice audible only to Chu Xinghe: "You should... also apply to the Heaven Dou Royal Academy, right?"
He turned his head and said in a deep voice, "Next time we meet, I will show you... the true power of the stars."
Before he could finish speaking, Zhan Tiankuang had already rushed onto the stage laughing, grabbed Chu Xinghe and slapped him on the back with his large, fan-like hands, making a loud "thump, thump" sound: "Good lad! Well done!"
The students from the surrounding War Frenzy Academy could no longer contain themselves, and cheers surged forth like a tidal wave.
Some people shouted Chu Xinghe's name, while others waved the academy flag excitedly. The entire War Maniac Academy was in an uproar, like a sea of celebration.
As for Yun Wuyai's threat to Chu Xinghe, Chu Xinghe didn't care at all.
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#45
Chapter 45 Heading to the Heaven Dou Royal Academy
Before the morning dew had even dried, bursts of explosions echoed from the training grounds on the back mountain of the War Mad Academy.
Three crimson fireballs shot out in a triangular pattern, blasting the ironwood target thirty paces away to smithereens.
The flying wood chips were burned to ashes by the remaining flames in mid-air, leaving only three charred marks on the ground.
"Your control has improved quite a bit." Zhan Tiankuang nodded, his arms crossed. He was quite satisfied with his disciple's growth after three months of special training.
Chu Xinghe withdrew his martial spirit and gently exhaled a breath of turbid air.
While possessed by Agumon, the orange scales on his arm were slowly fading.
The boy's body became increasingly robust due to the continuous high-intensity training. At only ten years old, he was already nearly 1.7 meters tall, and his brows revealed a resolute look.
"Level 24." He opened his palm, a ball of crimson flame dancing in his hand. "Now I can reliably fire three small flames in a row, and the soul power consumption is nearly 30% less than before."
Zhan Tiankuang suddenly pulled out an antique wooden box from his pocket: "Take this, a parting gift."
Seeing Chu Xinghe's puzzled expression, he grinned and said, "Don't worry, it's not a rare item like a soul bone."
Inside the box was a pair of red copper wristbands, their surfaces engraved with intricate flame patterns. "Made of red fire copper, these will help stabilize your fire-attribute soul power."
Zhan Tianhao lightly tapped the inside of the wrist guard with his rough fingers. "There are three Blazing Stones hidden here. If you crush them at a critical moment, they can release a flame equivalent to a Soul Emperor's attack."
Chu Xinghe solemnly put on the wristband. The metal felt slightly cool to the touch, but it was quickly warmed up by his body heat.
He was about to thank him when Zhan Tiankuang turned and strode away, saying, "Stop being so wishy-washy, get to Tiandou City first thing tomorrow morning!"
As night fell, Chu Xinghe was packing his belongings in his dormitory.
A soft sound came from the window frame, and a small silver gun with a letter pinned to it was stuck in the window frame.
The spear tip had sunk three inches into the hardwood, and the tassel was still trembling slightly.
Unfolding the letter, the bold, vigorous handwriting seemed to penetrate the paper:
Chu Xinghe:
I'll see you at the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy; I'll definitely defeat you.
"Boundless Clouds"
A simple sketch of a star gun was drawn in the corner of the letter, with the last stroke drawn out long, as if it were about to pierce the paper.
Chu Xinghe put the letter into his pocket and opened the window.
Under the moonlight, a figure holding a gun disappeared from the rooftops in the distance.
Chu Xinghe chuckled to himself, not expecting Yun Wuyai to be so persistent, even sending him a challenge before setting off.
...
The next day.
The morning light shone on the ancient stone gate of the War Madness Academy, casting two elongated shadows on the bluestone road.
Zhao Tiezhu's two-meter-tall, burly body was slightly hunched, and his rough hands kept rubbing the hem of his clothes.
"Brother Xinghe…" This burly man, whose voice was usually booming, now spoke in a hoarse voice as if it had been sanded down with sandpaper, "He went to the Heaven Dou Royal Academy… that…"
He suddenly lowered his head as if he were stuck, and his large, round eyes welled up with tears.
Chu Xinghe stood quietly, the morning breeze ruffling his hair. The ten-year-old boy was more than half a head taller than when he first entered school a year ago, and his shoulders were much broader, but his calm eyes remained clear and unwavering.
"Um... make sure you eat three meals a day on time!" Zhao Tiezhu suddenly grabbed Chu Xinghe's shoulder and shook him. "I heard that the Heaven Dou Royal Academy provides all kinds of soul beast meat as food. You absolutely mustn't miss it."
Chu Xinghe smiled slightly, letting his older brother, who was seven years his senior, ramble on.
From "Remember to wear more clothes" to "Don't overexert yourself in your cultivation," from "Be careful of aristocratic children" to "Soak your feet before bed," Zhao Tiezhu's admonitions continued like a machine gun for a full ten minutes.
"…And one more thing!" Zhao Tiezhu suddenly became serious, extending his palm. "I'll come find you in a year. Let's give each other a high five as proof!"
Chu Xinghe looked at the honest and simple-minded young man in front of him.
At sixteen years old, with a soul power of level twenty, one might be considered a genius in an ordinary academy, but at the Heaven Dou Royal Academy, one wouldn't even meet the entrance requirements.
Chu Xinghe struck the broad, thick hand without hesitation: "It's a deal. When you come, I'll protect you."
"Hahaha!" Zhao Tiezhu's laughter startled the birds in the treetops, and then he gave Chu Xinghe a bear hug, making him breathless. "You said it!"
When Chu Xinghe's figure finally disappeared at the end of the road, Zhao Tiezhu was still standing in the same place, like a stone pillar that had taken root.
He only turned around as if waking from a dream when he heard a familiar cold snort behind him.
"Dean?!" Zhao Tiezhu almost bit his tongue.
Before he knew it, Zhan Tiankuang was already standing three steps behind him.
"You also want to apply to the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy?" Zhan Tiankuang's sharp gaze seemed to pierce through people's hearts.
Zhao Tiezhu's ears instantly turned bright red: "I...that..."
"Starting tomorrow, come find me at the back mountain at six o'clock every morning." Zhan Tiankuang turned and left. "If you're even a minute late, you'll be cleaning toilets for a month."
"Thank you, teacher!" Zhao Tiezhu bowed deeply, his forehead almost hitting his knee.
"Who's your teacher!" Zhan Tiankuang waved his hand without turning his head. "I was just acting on a whim."
"Yes, teacher! I understand, teacher!" Zhao Tiezhu grinned and followed along like a bear that had found a pine cone.
As the morning mist gradually dissipated, only two sets of footprints, one deep and one shallow, remained beneath the archway of the War Mad Academy, stretching towards the training ground.
...
Three days later.
Standing before the magnificent main gate of the Heaven Dou Royal Academy, Chu Xinghe was deeply moved by the breathtaking scene before him.
The college is built against the mountain, backed by majestic green mountains, with a shimmering lake in front and surrounded by dense forests, like a paradise on earth.
What's even more astonishing is that this place is less than twenty miles from Tiandou City, the capital of the Tiandou Empire. It enjoys a tranquil cultivation environment and is adjacent to the center of imperial power, which shows its noble status.
"As expected of the number one academy in the Heaven Dou Empire." He narrowed his eyes. "If we can gain a foothold here and get close to Dugu Bo's granddaughter, Dugu Yan, we might be able to intercept the immortal herbs of the Ice and Fire Yin-Yang Well before Tang San."
A delicate fragrance wafted by, interrupting his thoughts.
Chu Xinghe looked up and saw Dugu Yan standing at the academy gate, holding a registration book. Her pale purple dress accentuated her snow-white skin.
She was chatting with the new students with a smile, exuding elegance in every gesture.
"It's you?" Dugu Yan's beautiful eyes lit up, and she walked over quickly. "That little guy who said he wanted to apply to Tiandou Academy!"
She patted Chu Xinghe's shoulder affectionately, her eyes sparkling with surprise.
Chu Xinghe had left a deep impression on her during their last encounter in Sunset Forest. Even a powerful figure like Dugu Bo, a Title Douluo, was very interested in Chu Xinghe, which made Dugu Yan even more curious about him.
Chu Xinghe immediately put on a gentle and refined smile, deliberately lowering his voice: "Senior Sister Dugu, since we parted in Sunset Forest, your charm has surpassed that of the past, like a fairy descending to earth."
"I'm not that pretty, stop praising me." Dugu Yan covered her mouth and chuckled. "I didn't expect you to actually come to take the entrance exam for the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy."
This intimate gesture secretly pleased Chu Xinghe.
Just as he was about to continue the conversation, a tall, slender figure suddenly stepped between the two of them.
"Yanzi, who is this?" Yu Tianheng asked with a smile, but his eyes were sharp as knives.
He stood between the two of them, seemingly unintentionally, slightly separating Dugu Yan.
Chu Xinghe keenly noticed that although the man spoke gently, his knuckles were already slightly white.
He sneered inwardly, but on the surface he became even more respectful: "My name is Chu Xinghe. I have just graduated from the intermediate soul master academy and am preparing to take the entrance exam for the Heaven Dou Royal Academy."
"Tianheng, this is the interesting junior I told you about, the one we met in Sunset Forest." Dugu Yan said, bypassing Yu Tianheng and approaching Chu Xinghe again. "He's only ten years old, but his soul power has already reached level twenty."
Upon hearing the address "Dugu Yan," Chu Xinghe immediately understood the person's identity.
This tall, slender man with an ordinary appearance is Yu Tianheng from the Blue Lightning Tyrannosaurus Rex family, and Dugu Yan's future boyfriend.
However, judging from the current situation, Yu Tianheng does not seem to have won Dugu Yan's heart yet.
A cold glint flashed in Yu Tianheng's eyes, but his smile remained unchanged: "Is that so? That's truly... rare."
He reached out to take the register, "Yanzi, let me handle these chores..."
"No need!" Dugu Yan nimbly dodged, instead handing the registration book to Chu Xinghe. "Here, fill it out yourself. I'll show you around the academy."
When Chu Xinghe took the register, he deliberately let his fingertips lightly brush against the back of Dugu Yan's hand.
He was secretly pleased to realize that the other party did not dodge.
Glancing at Yu Tianheng's gloomy expression, she secretly pondered: It seems that this Miss Dugu is easier to approach than I imagined, and she doesn't seem to have much affection for Yu Tianheng.
"Senior, this senior seems to be…" He lowered his voice, feigning hesitation.
"Ignore him." Dugu Yan pouted and whispered in his ear, "He's always following me around like a shadow, it's so annoying."
Her warm breath brushed against Chu Xinghe's ear, "Come on, I'll show you around the academy."
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