Originally, Ning Fengzhi, Sword Douluo, and Ning Rongrong had been acting like a family enjoying a long-awaited reunion, while Yang Xiong quietly remained in the background, careful not to intrude on their precious moment together.
Ning Fengzhi suddenly turned his attention to Yang Xiong, his expression becoming more serious. "Yang Xiong, what are your thoughts on these hidden weapons? Also, what do you think of your classmates at Shrek Academy?"
Yang Xiong considered the question carefully before responding thoughtfully. "The power of these hidden weapons is truly impressive, and they would be extremely useful for auxiliary-type soul masters. I would say they are perfectly suited for our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School's needs."
He paused briefly before continuing. "As for the Shrek students, they are all exceptionally talented individuals, but most of them come from established backgrounds. They could certainly become valuable friends and allies of our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School, but they aren't worth investing massive resources to recruit. Only Ma Hongjun and Oscar come from commoner backgrounds, so perhaps they might be persuaded to join our sect directly."
Ning Fengzhi's smile was knowing and calculated. "I have also investigated the background information of your Shrek Academy classmates, and they are indeed remarkable. However, aren't there two students called Tang San and Xiao Wu among them? Are these two truly not worth pursuing?"
Yang Xiong's expression grew serious, matching the gravity in his voice. "Sect Master, do you believe that members of the Clear Sky School are worth recruiting? More importantly, is it even possible to win them over?"
All three listeners were immediately surprised, completely unable to understand the implications of Yang Xiong's cryptic words.
Ning Rongrong looked puzzled as she asked, "Little rascal, what relationship could they possibly have with the Clear Sky School?"
Ning Fengzhi's expression also became deeply serious. "Yang Xiong, please explain this in detail. Have you made some other discoveries that we should know about?"
Yang Xiong turned to face Ning Rongrong directly. "Rongrong, do you remember during our entrance examination when Tang San fought Zhao Wuji alone? In addition to all those strange and powerful hidden weapons, he also wielded a small black hammer. That should be the legendary Clear Sky Hammer."
Ning Rongrong responded quickly, her confusion evident. "If Tang San's martial soul is truly the Clear Sky Hammer, then what about his current martial soul? He uses Blue Silver Grass in all his fights."
Yang Xiong nodded knowingly. "Twin martial souls. Tang San must possess twin martial souls, with his second martial soul being the Clear Sky Hammer."
Ning Fengzhi's expression grew even more grave. "Yang Xiong, are you suggesting that the Clear Sky School has secretly emerged from their mountain seclusion? Why haven't we received any intelligence about this development?"
Yang Xiong shook his head firmly. "This has nothing to do with the Clear Sky School as an organization. When we were in the Star Dou Great Forest, I asked Teacher Lin Gong to rescue Xiao Wu from danger. At the critical moment, Teacher Lin Gong was intimidated by the overwhelming aura of a Titled Douluo. It should have been a Titled Douluo from the Clear Sky School, and the only Clear Sky School Titled Douluo who is truly active outside their mountain stronghold is just one person."
Ning Fengzhi thought carefully, and a gleam of understanding appeared in his originally refined and calm eyes. "Clear Sky Douluo, Tang Hao!"
Yang Xiong nodded in confirmation. "Rongrong, do you remember that Tang San once mentioned his father was an ordinary blacksmith, and his name was also Tang Hao?"
Ning Rongrong thought back carefully. "Tang San did mention it once, but I didn't pay much attention at the time."
Ning Fengzhi and Sword Douluo exchanged meaningful glances. "Uncle Jian, since this involves the Clear Sky School, things may not be as simple as they appear. However, we still need to observe Tang San's attitude carefully. Perhaps he himself doesn't fully understand the relationship between himself and the Clear Sky School."
"Yang Xiong, keep Tang San's identity as a descendant of the Clear Sky School strictly confidential for now. Simply pretend you know nothing about it, and I will handle this matter personally when the appropriate time comes."
Meeting the Crown Prince
The four quickly made their way to the Education Committee Building. In addition to the original three Education Committee members and the teachers and students of Shrek Academy, the person seated in the central position of honor was a very refined and elegant young man.
This individual appeared relatively slender in build, but his every movement exuded refinement and nobility. He also seemed unusually approachable and charismatic. This should be Prince Xue Qinghe whom Ning Fengzhi had mentioned earlier.
Speaking of similarities, Ning Fengzhi and Xue Qinghe were remarkably alike in their mannerisms and bearing. Both possessed an air of sophisticated refinement, and even their conversations carried deeper meaning and significance. It was truly fitting for a master and disciple relationship.
After some preliminary discussions, it became obvious that both Xue Qinghe and Ning Fengzhi were extremely satisfied with the teachers and students from Shrek Academy. Their expressions clearly showed their intention to recruit these talented individuals.
After most of the attendees had departed, only Xue Qinghe, Ning Rongrong, and Yang Xiong remained in the Education Committee Building. Tang San had been invited separately by Ning Fengzhi and Sword Douluo, obviously to discuss the commercial arrangements for the hidden weapons.
Ning Rongrong seemed exceptionally familiar with Xue Qinghe, calling him "Brother Qinghe" while he addressed her as "Sister Rongrong." Their interaction resembled that of genuine siblings. Yang Xiong, by contrast, felt somewhat like an unwelcome third party in their reunion.
Xue Qinghe glanced toward Yang Xiong with a warm smile. "Student Yang Xiong, Rongrong and I have known each other since childhood. She is my teacher's daughter, and I have always treated Rongrong as my own beloved sister."
Yang Xiong bowed respectfully. "Greetings, Your Highness the Prince. You and Rongrong clearly share a wonderful relationship. Rongrong has always hoped to have an older brother figure in her life."
Xue Qinghe smiled and nodded graciously. "Rongrong is truly adorable. Both my teacher and I cherish her dearly."
Ning Rongrong quickly interjected with enthusiasm. "Brother Qinghe, Little rascal, please don't be so formal with each other. Our two families have maintained an excellent relationship for many years."
Xue Qinghe observed Ning Rongrong and Yang Xiong's intimate behavior with the indulgent expression of a caring older brother watching over his younger sister.
"Rongrong is our precious little princess. Now that you two are together, I sincerely hope you will also cherish and protect her."
Yang Xiong felt speechless when he witnessed Xue Qinghe's masterful performance. This person was extraordinarily skilled at deception. No wonder even someone as perceptive and shrewd as Ning Fengzhi had been completely fooled. Yang Xiong studied Xue Qinghe's features carefully, searching for any hints that might reveal this person's true connection to femininity.
Xue Qinghe seemed to sense Yang Xiong's strange and penetrating gaze, prompting him to speak. "Student Yang Xiong, since we're all family here, please feel free to speak openly if you have anything on your mind."
In Yang Xiong's eyes, it was clear that Xue Qinghe harbored certain intentions to recruit both Ning Rongrong and himself. Otherwise, a prince as busy and important as him would never have taken the time to say such personal words.
Yang Xiong considered his approach for a moment before speaking. "Your Highness the Prince, I have indeed heard much about your reputation. Your Highness is known for being diligent in governance and caring toward the people, earning an excellent reputation among the citizens. However, I always feel that certain aspects seem somewhat unusual."
Xue Qinghe asked with apparent confusion, "Could there be something inappropriate about my actions or policies?"
Yang Xiong casually took a sip of tea before continuing. "Your Highness the Prince is indeed exceptional in all aspects, even admirable. However, I have heard that Your Highness is no longer young—it should be time to select a Crown Princess. Unfortunately, there seem to be no such rumors circulating, and Your Highness appears to have had no romantic scandals with any women whatsoever."
"I believe that even if Your Highness is extremely busy with official duties and cultivation, the continuation of the empire's bloodline remains of paramount importance. His Majesty Emperor Xue Ye is probably quite concerned about Your Highness's situation."
A trace of embarrassment flickered across Xue Qinghe's face. "I am indeed extremely busy with responsibilities. Perhaps I have been neglectful in this regard."
Yang Xiong smiled knowingly. "Your Highness the Prince, please don't take offense. Our two families maintain good relations, and Rongrong treats you as a brother—that's precisely why I feel comfortable speaking so directly. As it happens, our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School has many exceptionally talented female disciples. Whether in appearance or cultivation level, they are all outstanding. Perhaps they could serve as suitable matches for Your Highness, creating a wonderful alliance between our families."
Xue Qinghe seemed to be deliberately avoiding the topic. "Yang Xiong, you flatter me. I truly have far too many responsibilities to handle. Perhaps His Majesty the Emperor will arrange a marriage for me in due time."
Originally, the three had been sitting together in comfortable conversation, but at this moment, Yang Xiong directly grasped Xue Qinghe's hands as they reached for the teacup, displaying exceptional enthusiasm and concern.
"Your Highness, your marriage is directly related to the continuation of the Heaven Dou Empire's royal bloodline. Such matters absolutely cannot be taken lightly. Although I haven't been at Heaven Dou Royal Academy for very long, I've heard that Prince Xue Beng enjoys making friends and has never lacked for female companions. Your Highness should perhaps learn from your brother in this particular regard."
Xue Qinghe withdrew his hands smoothly without changing expression. "Yang Xiong, you are too kind. Xue Beng has always been somewhat of a playboy. If he has offended you in the past, I apologize on his behalf."
Yang Xiong had no intention of releasing pressure on this false Crown Prince. "Your Highness, you and I seem to have hit it off immediately upon meeting. If Your Highness truly suffers from some hidden ailment or condition, you can speak to me directly. I have conducted extensive research in pharmacology and can definitely help you find a cure."
Ning Rongrong, who had been listening nearby, quickly added her support. "Brother Qinghe, Little rascal loves to study and possesses vast knowledge. If you have any problems, you absolutely must speak up. Would you like me to introduce you to some female disciples from the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School?"
Xue Qinghe smiled with obvious discomfort. "I prefer not to think too deeply about such matters. The Empire keeps me genuinely busy, and my governmental affairs are truly overwhelming."
"Oh, I just remembered that I still have an urgent government matter requiring my immediate attention, so I must excuse myself. Rongrong, please convey my regards to Teacher."
Watching Xue Qinghe depart in obvious haste, Ning Rongrong appeared somewhat disappointed. "Brother Qinghe is simply too busy, isn't he? It's so rare for us to spend time together like this."
Yang Xiong maintained his knowing smile. "Rongrong, you seem quite fond of this Crown Prince Xue Qinghe, but this person possesses a few too many schemes and hidden agendas."
Ning Rongrong's face showed a hint of displeasure. "Don't speak about Brother Qinghe that way. Emperor Xue Ye has entrusted him with handling numerous important matters. He's far busier than either of us could ever imagine."
The Hidden Weapon Transaction
Meanwhile, Tang San had accepted Ning Fengzhi's invitation and accompanied him to a private meeting room for their discussion.
After both sides communicated their terms, they essentially confirmed the arrangement for the hidden weapon transaction. Tang San would provide the technical blueprints, while Ning Fengzhi would arrange for personnel to manufacture the various hidden weapon components. Finally, all components would be delivered to Tang San for final assembly.
This arrangement meant that Tang San purely contributed his technical knowledge and expertise. The raw materials and entire manufacturing process would be handled entirely by the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School, not only saving him the considerable time required for production but also allowing him to obtain extremely high profits with minimal effort.
Ning Fengzhi appeared exceptionally generous in his offer, directly purchasing 500 complete sets at a price of 10,000 gold soul coins per set, paying 5 million gold soul coins immediately. For the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School, with their incomparable wealth, this amount represented pocket change.
However, after the two parties completed their basic transaction, Tang San seemed to hesitate, as if he wanted to say something additional but was uncertain how to proceed.
Ning Fengzhi maintained his exceptionally amiable demeanor. "Student Tang San, please feel free to speak your mind openly. My Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School maintains considerable status within the soul master world. You can also inform me if you have any other difficulties that require assistance."
Tang San finally spoke his mind. "Sect Master Ning, regarding our transaction, would it be possible to add one of your sect's self-created soul skills? I would be willing to forgo the 5 million gold soul coins for this exchange."
Ning Fengzhi smiled diplomatically. "Fair payment for legitimate transactions is only proper business practice. If you're interested in just an ordinary self-created soul skill from our sect, I can provide it directly as a bonus to our current transaction, representing the sincerity of our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School's commitment to this partnership."
Tang San considered his words carefully before speaking. "Sect Master Ning, I once witnessed Yang Xiong using a technique called Rasengan. I wonder if this particular self-created soul skill could be taught to me?"
Ning Fengzhi's expression shifted slightly upon hearing this request. "Tang San, this presents some difficulty. The Rasengan was created entirely by Yang Xiong himself, and I once promised him that this technique would never be transmitted to others, so I'm afraid there's no way to pass it on to you."
"Of course, if you desire other self-created soul skills, we can certainly consider those alternatives."
Over the past few months, Tang San had fought Yang Xiong numerous times and personally witnessed the devastating power of the Rasengan technique.
Unfortunately, neither he nor Yu Xiaogang could decipher its mechanics no matter how extensively they analyzed it. Tang San had even secretly attempted to practice the technique himself, but to no avail. At this moment, he thought about whether he could add the Rasengan to their current deal, even willing to sacrifice the entire 5 million gold soul coin payment.
Tang San pressed further. "Sect Master Ning, wasn't this Rasengan developed by Yang Xiong under the direct guidance of his master, Bone Douluo? Shouldn't the technique rightfully belong to the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School?"
Ning Fengzhi and Sword Douluo exchanged a meaningful glance, doubt flickering in their eyes. When had Bone Douluo ever guided Yang Xiong? When had he become Yang Xiong's master?
However, Ning Fengzhi remained diplomatically composed. "Tang San, you should understand that all Titled Douluos possess their own closely guarded secrets. I prefer not to interfere excessively with matters concerning Bone Douluo. If you feel that the value of each hidden weapon set is insufficient, I can certainly raise the price further."
Tang San appeared somewhat dejected by this response. "Thank you, Sect Master Ning. The price for the hidden weapons is very reasonable, and I am completely satisfied with this transaction."
After Tang San departed from the room, Sword Douluo, who had maintained his calm and collected demeanor throughout the meeting, suddenly displayed a sharp, calculating look in his eyes.
"Fengzhi, this Tang San is far too calculating and greedy. We provide all the materials and handle the entire manufacturing process for these hidden weapons, while he merely assembles them, yet he demands 10,000 gold soul coins per set. The price seems excessively high."
"Moreover, this young man has the audacity to covet our proprietary self-created soul skills. Just as Yang Xiong predicted, he is indeed not worth recruiting or investing in."
Ning Fengzhi smiled thoughtfully. "A mere 5 million gold soul coins means nothing to our resources. However, I find it quite curious that he covets this particular self-created soul skill so intensely. Given Yang Xiong's perceptive nature, since he already knows Tang San's intentions, he should have held back certain crucial details when demonstrating the technique."
"Also, why did Tang San claim that Yang Xiong developed the Rasengan under Bone Uncle's guidance? Why did he also suggest that Yang Xiong is Bone Uncle's disciple?"
Compared to the original timeline, where Tang San had provided Ning Rongrong with the precious Qiluo Tulip immortal herb that evolved her martial soul, the two were now merely ordinary classmates without such a deep friendship. Ning Fengzhi's attitude was naturally quite different as a result.
After all, self-created soul skills represented matters of tremendous importance, especially the Rasengan, which had become crucial to the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School's strategic capabilities. Such techniques could not be handed over based on mere words and requests. At the very least, Tang San did not possess sufficient influence or value to warrant such consideration.
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