With the aid of the gray soul ring on his body, Zhou Sichen experimented with the fusion effects of necromantic magic and soul skills. Electrolux watched, repeatedly amazed.
After gaining a deeper understanding of necromantic magic, Zhou Sichen didn't waste any more time. To truly master necromantic magic, time and experience were essential.
For now, he needed to properly familiarize himself with the Undead Demiplane.
As he strolled through this realm, the gray soul ring on his body expanded dramatically, like a rising gray sun.
Endless light radiated outward, spilling into every corner of the Undead Demiplane. A terrifying and overwhelming pressure descended from the sky, forcing countless undead creatures to grovel on the ground.
All undead within the realm, upon seeing the gray soul ring transformed into a radiant "sun," instinctively knelt in reverence.
Only a few especially powerful undead dared to raise their heads and roar skyward in defiance, trying to resist the divine pressure.
The Mark of the Sovereign!
Whoever possessed it was the absolute ruler of the Undead Demiplane.
At this moment, Zhou Sichen was the ruler—this realm's new master.
When Zhou Sichen reached the area where the deathly aura was the densest, he saw from afar three colossal beasts, each more than thirty meters in length.
Their forms were imposing, exuding a terrifying aura of kingship. Apart from the realm's true master, they were the supreme rulers here.
They were three fearsome and monstrous Bone Dragons, their hollow eyes blazing with ghostly green soul fire—majestic and ferocious to the extreme.
In every world, dragons were apex beings. These undead Bone Dragons were no exception.
After countless years of battle and evolution, they had become the supreme overlords of the Undead Demiplane.
Judging by their aura, each of them was on par with a Title Douluo, and the strongest among them could even rival a Super Douluo.
Zhou Sichen's sudden arrival naturally caught their attention. But when they sensed the absolute, domineering pressure radiating from him—the authority of a true sovereign—all three lowered their proud heads.
Before the Mark of the Sovereign, no matter how dominant they had once been in this realm, none dared to disobey the will of the new master.
A slight smile played at the corners of Zhou Sichen's lips. These were now all part of his trump cards…
Electrolux chuckled softly. "Sichen, do you like this gift?"
Zhou Sichen certainly did—he wished he had a few more just like it.
"Thank you for your generosity, Elder Yi. I promise I won't let the potential of this Undead Demiplane go to waste. One day, it will shine gloriously on Douluo Continent."
Elder Yi looked gratified. "You possess extraordinary talent in the art of necromancy. I believe you'll make it happen."
…
In the days that followed, Zhou Sichen spent every spare moment discussing necromantic magic with Elder Yi. At the same time, the idea that had once struck Elder Yi like a flash of inspiration had started taking shape.
He had imagined a system where necromantic magic could be used to form contracts with soul beasts—creating a bond similar to the one Zhou Sichen shared with his Book of Contracts Martial Soul.
However, the contracts formed through necromantic magic would not be with the living, but with the dead.
This meant that such contracts could only be made with souls, not the living soul beasts as with his Book of Contracts.
Building on Elder Yi's idea, Zhou Sichen naturally began laying out his own thoughts on what would become the Soul Spirit Method.
As he spoke, Elder Yi's eyes grew brighter and brighter, as if a veil had been lifted and the sun had broken through the clouds.
Once again, he marveled at Zhou Sichen's brilliance. The boy's ingenuity and natural talent for necromantic magic were truly astonishing—worthy of being his successor.
Zhou Sichen simply gave a modest smile, hiding his merit and fame.
After all, how could he tell Elder Yi that all of these concepts were things he himself would have eventually figured out? As a student, he had merely helped connect the dots a bit earlier.
Now that Electrolux had become Zhou Sichen's third Martial Soul, there was no longer any fear of his consciousness vanishing. He had grown more active by the day.
He worked to recall everything this fragment of his divine sense contained and shared it all with Zhou Sichen without reservation.
He had a premonition: in the near future, this "third disciple" of his would bring him immense surprises and gains.
If Zhou Sichen continued to grow at this pace, not only might he help resurrect Electrolux, he could even help recover the rest of his divine soul fragments. The Deathly Holy Magus, the Undead Scourge himself, might once again radiate the true glory of a god of death!
The night before the tournament, Zhou Sichen, glowing with enthusiasm, gathered everyone together. The seven official team members and the seven alternates—fourteen people in total—sat in the meeting room.
Zhou Sichen spoke in a calm tone:
"Tomorrow, the tournament begins. It's time to settle your minds. While our overall strength makes winning the championship nearly a certainty, we cannot allow any surprises. Each of you must be at one hundred percent."
Everyone nodded.
"Understood!"
Zhou Sichen continued,
"You've likely already heard—this year, a total of 133 advanced Soul Master Academies and Soul Engineer Academies will be participating."
"The first round of the tournament is an elimination round. The format is seven-versus-seven team battles. The losing team is eliminated immediately."
"According to the information I've gathered, if the opposing team in any match does not have a Soul King-level combatant, then the victory will be handed over to the alternate team to secure for our academy."
Upon hearing this, Cao Jinxuan, Bei Bei, Xu Sanshi, and the others lit up with excitement.
The first match of the tournament—was being handed to the alternates?
As the reigning champions, Shrek Academy always opened the tournament. That first match would be in the spotlight, watched by all.
And that opportunity… was now theirs?
Xu Sanshi was so thrilled he almost jumped up.
"Brother Zhou, you're a man of your word. Once a gentleman gives his promise, even four horses can't chase it down. You can't go back on this!"
Zhou Sichen laughed.
"Of course. But—if you lose to an opponent that doesn't even have a Soul King, causing Shrek to lose its ten-thousand-year legacy… you will bear the consequences."
The room instantly grew heavy. None of them could afford that kind of failure.
Cao Jinxuan smiled and stood up.
"Brother, I accept this military order. If we lose—then as captain, I'll take full responsibility and commit suicide to atone!"
The night before the tournament, Zhou Sichen, his face glowing with excitement, called everyone together. The seven core team members and the seven reserve members—all fourteen—gathered in the conference room.
Zhou Sichen opened calmly,
"Tomorrow marks the start of the tournament. It's time for everyone to focus. Given our strength, the championship is practically in our hands—but to avoid any unexpected mishaps, I want each of you operating at one hundred percent."
Everyone nodded in agreement.
"Understood!"
He continued,
"I'm sure you're already aware—this tournament has a total of 133 participating academies, including both Advanced Soul Master Academies and Advanced Soul Engineer Academies."
"The first round will follow an elimination format, with seven-versus-seven team battles. The losing team will be immediately disqualified."
"Based on the information I've gathered, any opponent in the preliminaries that lacks a Soul King-level combatant will be left to the reserve team to handle and secure victory for Shrek."
At those words, Cao Jinxuan, Bei Bei, Xu Sanshi, and the others lit up.
The first match of the tournament would be theirs?
As reigning champions, Shrek Academy always opened the tournament. That opening battle, watched by all, would be a coveted honor.
And it was being handed to them?
Xu Sanshi couldn't contain his excitement.
"Brother Zhou, you're a man of your word. Once you say something, not even four horses can chase it down—you can't take it back!"
Zhou Sichen chuckled.
"Of course. But if you lose to a team without a single Soul King, tarnishing Shrek's glory built over ten thousand years... the consequences will be yours to bear."
Everyone stiffened at those words. That was a responsibility too heavy to shoulder.
Cao Jinxuan smiled lightly.
"Brother, I accept the challenge. If we fail, then as captain—I'll take full responsibility, even if it means taking my own life!"
Bei Bei and Xu Sanshi stared at him in surprise.
Is this guy for real? Xu Sanshi thought. Has he even asked us? What if the enemy team is full of Soul Ancestors? We've still got a Rank-31 Soul Elder on our side!
Just as Cao Jinxuan's words landed, the only Soul Elder in the team—Wang Dong—stood up.
"I accept it too! Everyone's seen how much our teamwork has improved lately. This is our chance to prove ourselves. What? You don't have that much confidence?"
His words lit a fire in Xu Sanshi.
"Are you kidding? I, the Eternal Defense Xu Sanshi, have never feared anyone! Even if they have a Soul King, bring it on!"
Jiang Nannan rolled her eyes at his bravado—but deep down, she too had confidence.
Bei Bei, He Caitou, and Long Xiangyue felt the same.
Watching the reserve team's impassioned reactions, Ye Guyi and the other core team members exchanged glances but didn't speak.
None of them doubted Zhou Sichen's decision.
Besides, most of the competing academies wouldn't require their involvement anyway—only a few elite teams might pose a challenge.
Not to mention Ye Guyi and Ma Xiaotao, who were both Soul Sages. Even Dai Yueheng, as a Soul Emperor, thought the same.
With his Rank-64 strength, apart from the two Soul Sages beside him, no one else in this tournament could match him.
He believed that without Zhou Sichen, Ye Guyi, or Ma Xiaotao even taking the stage, he could lead Gongyang Mo, Ling Luocheng, Dugu Xianmeng, and the reserve team to a championship.
Zhou Sichen and Cao Jinxuan exchanged a glance. The two brothers had worked together to ignite everyone's fighting spirit. When the time came, no one would hold back—no one wanted to lose face.
Zhou Sichen tapped the table.
"Initially, I planned for the core team to start strong, overwhelming our opponents and intimidating the other academies. You reserves would just tag along."
"But now—I've changed my mind. This year's tournament will be led by the reserve team. If you face an opponent you can't handle, you can request help from the core team—but doing so means you'll owe a favor."
"If you let pride cloud your judgment and lose out of stubbornness, then you know exactly what the consequences will be. I don't think I need to explain how Elder Xuan will react."
Bei Bei, Xu Sanshi, and the others—who had just been fired up—were instantly doused in cold water.
"What?! The reserves are being treated as the main team, and the core team's staying on the sidelines?" Even the normally calm Bei Bei couldn't help but cry out.
Xu Sanshi looked conflicted.
"Brother Zhou, aren't you overestimating us a bit?"
The favors weren't the issue—it was the fear that they couldn't handle it. After all, many academies did have Soul Emperor-level powerhouses.
Their team's strongest only had four rings. If things went south…
Zhou Sichen listened silently to their murmurs, not interrupting.
Then, Cao Jinxuan, the reserve team captain, was the first to speak:
"I have no problem with it. I believe I can lead the team and bring glory to Shrek."
Long Xiangyue grinned.
"I think it's a great idea. Sister Guyi and Xiaotao are way too strong—if they get involved, there won't be anything left for us."
Ye Guyi and Ma Xiaotao exchanged a look—they truly didn't mind.
Since breaking through Rank 70 and becoming Soul Sages, they deeply understood the difference between possessing a Martial Soul Avatar and not.
They were only participating to support Zhou Sichen and handle any unexpected developments.
At their current level, there were no worthy opponents among their peers.
Just like Dai Yueheng thought—Zhou Sichen, Ye Guyi, and Ma Xiaotao weren't even needed. He alone could lead the team to victory.
Zhou Sichen clapped his hands.
"That settles it. Everyone's dismissed. Go rest well and prepare for tomorrow."
With that, he got up and left the room. The core team followed him, leaving the reserve members behind, still buzzing.
Bei Bei turned to Cao Jinxuan.
"Captain, you and Brother Zhou put on quite a show. You really think we reserves can handle those teams with Soul Emperors?"
Cao Jinxuan smiled calmly.
"With our current strength, it'll be tough—but do you really think Brother Zhou won't let the core team step in if necessary?"
"He just wants to push us harder. If we run into real trouble, Sister Guyi and the others can wipe out any obstacle. We just need to give it our all. He'll handle the rest."
That reassured everyone.
Wang Dong's eyes sparkled.
"I'm just a Soul Elder and I'm not scared. What are you afraid of? Want to run at the first sign of trouble? Even Yuhao wouldn't do that!"
Xu Sanshi frowned.
"Wang Dong, you're getting cocky, huh? Talking big now?"
Wang Dong retorted without hesitation:
"If we're at the same level, I don't think you could beat me. I'm just stating the truth."
Jiang Nannan nodded approvingly.
"I think Wang Dong's right."
Xu Sanshi's heart shattered—his goddess had taken Wang Dong's side!
The seven of them stopped bickering and began seriously discussing tactics to maximize their strengths.
Cao Jinxuan and Long Xiangyue exchanged a knowing glance.
They understood—this was Brother Zhou giving them an opportunity.
He couldn't just let the spotlight fall on Cao Jinxuan and Long Xiangyue alone, so he arranged things this way.
Even if it was a bit biased, no one would complain.
Besides, if they could prove their talent and potential, the academy would reward them with real resources.
Shrek Academy had stood for ten thousand years—it must have a sizable reserve of soul bones. Zhou Sichen naturally wanted to ensure his two younger brothers had a solid foundation.
The Next Morning.
As the first rays of sunlight shone upon Star Luo City, the imperial capital of the Star Luo Empire took on a solemn atmosphere.
All roads around Star Luo Plaza were sealed off by heavily armored soldiers. The area around the Star Imperial Hotel was under even tighter guard, with over a thousand troops stationed nearby.
Only academy teams exiting from the Star Imperial Hotel were allowed through.
The tournament's arena had been built directly in front of the imperial palace gates in Star Luo Plaza, allowing the emperor and his officials to spectate from the palace walls above.
The elevated position provided both the best view and optimal security.
The stage was 100 meters wide in both length and breadth, and five meters tall. Around it stood 108 metal pillars.
These weren't just decorative—they were part of a large-scale defensive Soul Tool system.
During the matches, 108 soul masters would activate a shield to contain all soul skills and prevent damage to the imperial palace or harm to bystanders.
The plaza was currently empty, aside from the distant guards.
To the west of the arena, a luxurious rest area had been built for the participating academy teams.
Since the tournament had adopted its current format, the elimination round had become the most intense and exciting part—even more so than the final round-robin phase.
Because in the elimination round, one loss meant elimination. No second chances.
Every team had to overcome this stage—including Shrek Academy, reigning champion or not.
Early that morning, the team leaders from each academy had arrived at the imperial city for the drawing of lots.
With Elder Xuan still missing, it was Zhou Sichen who represented Shrek as team leader to draw their number.
The staff was stunned to see Shrek's captain step forward—but given Shrek's reputation, no one objected to Zhou also serving as their team leader.
Once the draw was complete, the match order was finalized, and the final preparations concluded.
The sun rose over Star Luo City, casting a warm glow over the central continent.
After the spectators were admitted, as always, the Emperor of Star Luo gave the opening speech and declared the tournament officially underway.
Just like in the original story, the first match:
Heaven Spirit Advanced Soul Master Academy of the Doulou Empire, versus the undefeated champions—Shrek Academy.
As the announcer declared the match, the crowd erupted.
"Shrek! Shrek! Shrek!"
The audience chanted Shrek's name, confident that the academy would easily crush their opponents—and eager to witness the talent of Shrek's new generation.
On stage, the seven members of Heaven Spirit Academy trembled slightly. Especially their captain—his heart was full of despair.
He had come with dreams of earning glory for his academy and making a name for himself on the continent…
Only to draw Shrek Academy in the very first round.
Shrek Academy! The undefeated champions of every tournament!
He was only Rank-47. How could he possibly lead a team against Shrek?
But then, Shrek's seven team members stepped onto the platform, and he couldn't help but rub his eyes.
They looked so young—one of them seemed barely twelve or thirteen. These were clearly reserves!
None of Shrek's main team was here?
Were they looking down on Heaven Spirit Academy that much?
His fear slowly turned to rage.
Across from them stood Cao Jinxuan, Bei Bei, Xu Sanshi, Long Xiangyue, He Caitou, Jiang Nannan, and Wang Dong, all with calm and focused expressions.
Each wore the traditional dark green uniform of Shrek Academy.
Though not a glamorous color, it represented the strength and honor built over millennia.
Just the sight of those uniforms was enough to draw admiration and reverence.
Offstage, Zhou Sichen, Ye Guyi, Ma Xiaotao, Dai Yueheng, Ling Luocheng, Dugu Xianmeng, and Gongyang Mo watched quietly.
Behind them sat the Sun Moon Imperial Soul Engineering Academy. As they gazed at the backs of Shrek's seven reserve members, their eyes filled with disbelief.
This was the first time since the format change that Shrek had sent only reserve members into the elimination round.
Were they really not worried about losing?
The next moment, as the referee declared "Release your Martial Souls!", Shrek's reserve team gave their answer.
All seven released their martial souls—two yellow and two purple rings each. Even Wang Dong, the only Soul Elder, had a yellow-purple-purple configuration.
Six Soul Ancestors and one Soul Elder—this was Shrek Academy!
On the other side, Heaven Spirit's seven had five Soul Ancestors and two Soul Elders.
Their strongest lineup was still weaker than Shrek's reserves?
"Shrek! Shrek! Shrek!"
The crowd erupted once more.
Shrek wasn't being arrogant—they just didn't need their main team. Even their "weakest" lineup still surpassed the competition.
Behind Zhou Sichen, the Sun Moon Academy members narrowed their eyes. The name list they had acquired now seemed far more ominous.
Their gazes fell on Ye Guyi and Ma Xiaotao—still filled with disbelief.
****
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