"The academy mentioned that within the next few days, members of their clan will arrive to meet you."
Yu Xiaogang looked seriously at Yu Chen, his tone more solemn than usual.
"The world-renowned defensive beast spirit clan — the Xuanwu (Black Tortoise) family."
"I see," Yu Chen responded quietly.
Although the Xuanwu clan doesn't hold as much direct political power as the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan, they are still recognized as a top-tier spirit beast bloodline family in the Heaven Dou Empire. Known for their supreme defense capabilities, the Xuanwu Spirit has long been regarded as the strongest defensive martial spirit in the world.
Yu Chen himself possessed the Basalt Divine Turtle Spirit — a superior mutation of the traditional Xuanwu martial spirit — so naturally, he was curious to meet the clan known for cultivating the bloodline.
"The Xuanwu clan has always been courteous and values ancestral bonds. You shouldn't face any hostility from them," Yu Xiaogang reassured, before shifting topics.
"Oh, and since most of you have reached Spirit Elder level—with you breaking into the 40th rank—Shrek Academy has decided to take everyone to the Star Dou Great Forest tomorrow for your next spirit rings."
Yu Xiaogang paused, as if suddenly recalling something else.
"Also, today in Soto City, there's going to be a large-scale auction held by the Black Gold Chamber of Commerce. You might want to take a look."
"Auction? Sounds fun! Brother Chen, let's go together!"
"Yes! We've been training nonstop for days—I'm practically turning into a cultivation dummy. Let's go walk around!"
Just as Yu Xiaogang mentioned the auction, Ma Hongjun and Oscar, who stood nearby, immediately perked up and chimed in, their excitement drawing in the others.
"Ding! Three-Option Divine System activated. Host, please choose one of the following:
1. Refuse to go to the auction. Reward: 666 Gintama Coins!
2. Remain in Shrek Academy and meditate. Reward: 1 Golden Soul Coin!
3. Attend the Soto City Auction. Reward: 88,888 Golden Soul Coins!
You have 30 seconds to make your choice!"
As the others were still talking, a mechanical voice suddenly echoed in Yu Chen's mind.
All three rewards were coin-based, but the sheer value of the third choice clearly outclassed the others. Even if the coins held symbolic meaning in the system, Yu Chen was already somewhat curious about the auction itself, especially after hearing it was hosted by the mysterious Black Gold Chamber.
"Everyone's spirit power is stable for now, so it wouldn't hurt to go out and take a breather," Yu Chen thought to himself, eyes flicking over the choices in his mind's sea of consciousness.
He turned to Ning Rongrong, Zhu Zhuqing, and the others. "Let's go."
"Yes!"
As soon as Yu Chen gave his answer, everyone's faces lit up with anticipation.
"Since you've decided to go, don't delay."
"Your identities are sensitive. Auctions draw all sorts of people—nobles, spirit masters, and informants. Everyone must wear a mask."
Yu Xiaogang, seeing their eagerness, smiled faintly, yet reminded them of the risk involved.
"Understood, Master!"
After acknowledging the warning, the eight members of the team—led by Yu Chen—equipped their spirit-inscribed masks. Together with Yu Xiaogang and Liu Erlong, they departed Shrek Academy, heading toward the bustling Soto City auction!
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