Compared to the average spectators in the arena, both the teachers from various Spirit Master academies and the observing genius students clearly perceived many different layers of meaning through this intense battle.
While the revelation of Tang San's Clear Sky Hammer had shocked most people, these experienced observers seemed more focused on the defensive Spirit Master named Yang Xiong, particularly those from the Five Element Academies.
Feng Xiaotian, Huo Wushuang, Shui Bing'er, and several other team captains gathered together, their expressions extremely serious and contemplative.
Feng Xiaotian spoke first, breaking the tense silence. "Huo Wushuang, how much of your team's true strength do you think you displayed when you defeated the Shrek Academy team last time?"
Huo Wushuang's expression was equally grave at this moment. "Feng Xiaotian, I honestly cannot say for certain. Yang Xiong that day was clearly not nearly as formidable as he appeared today. My individual strength is comparable to Yu Tianxin's, yet Yang Xiong could completely suppress Yu Tianxin while simultaneously blocking multiple opponents. This level of performance is far beyond what an ordinary defensive Spirit Master should be capable of achieving. You should understand that even after winning the match, no one has witnessed any of his actual Spirit Abilities thus far."
Feng Xiaotian nodded thoughtfully. "I feel like I've encountered a kindred spirit in combat philosophy. Yang Xiong's self-created soul skills are all remarkably effective and practical. Perhaps he and I could have productive discussions about the development process for creating original techniques."
Huo Wu, standing nearby, displayed a hint of disdain on her face. "Feng Xiaotian, your Hurricane Magic Wolf Thirty-Six Successive Slashes technique is overly complicated and flashy. I believe Yang Xiong's self-created soul skills are simple, direct, and brutally effective—especially that final move he used to defeat Yu Tianxin. In terms of pure destructive power, it has probably reached the level of a top-tier thousand-year Spirit Ability."
She continued with growing realization, "I was wondering back then how he could withstand my Fire Dance: Brilliant Sun technique. He probably used the same defensive move he employed to block Yu Tianxin's Spirit Ability."
Feng Xiaotian quickly responded with obvious enthusiasm, "Little Sister Huo Wu, you can rest assured about this matter. I will personally defeat Yang Xiong and obtain proper revenge for you."
Everyone present looked at Feng Xiaotian with unusual and questioning expressions. Huo Wu had merely made a casual observation—why did he seem so emotionally invested and sensitive about the topic?
Shui Bing'er, maintaining her characteristic calm demeanor, smiled diplomatically and said, "Let's not make hasty declarations. The Shrek Academy team's spirit power ranks are relatively low overall, particularly with Blue Silver Grass serving as their primary control system martial soul, which is easily countered by many opponent types. Perhaps that fundamental weakness explains why they suffered defeat against Blazing Fire Academy."
Huo Wu snorted dismissively. "Mere Blue Silver Grass vegetation. Under the intense heat of my flames, it will inevitably turn to worthless ashes."
These several genius competitors, all direct rivals in the tournament, had easily identified the Shrek Academy team's most significant tactical shortcomings and vulnerabilities.
After a period of medical treatment and recovery, everyone attended an exceptionally grand and elaborate banquet. The celebration was personally hosted by Crown Prince Xue Qinghe, with all three members of the great education committee present. Additionally, Ning Fengzhi and Bone Douluo were also in attendance, demonstrating such tremendous importance to the gathering that even Flender felt somewhat overwhelmed by the extraordinary honor being shown.
Xue Qinghe frequently raised his cup throughout the banquet, clearly displaying a strong desire to win over Tang San and Dai Mubai as the team's captain and vice-captain respectively. His attention toward Tang San was particularly evident, as both Ning Fengzhi and Xue Qinghe obviously held him in exceptionally high regard.
After all, twin martial souls were renowned for representing unparalleled natural talent, especially with Tang San's second martial soul being the legendary Clear Sky Hammer, which was extraordinarily highly valued by all knowledgeable parties.
In stark contrast, Xue Qinghe displayed unusual indifference toward Yang Xiong, seemingly harboring a slight but noticeable grudge against him.
Since their previous meeting, Yang Xiong and Ning Rongrong, under Ning Fengzhi's guidance, had spent considerable time with Xue Qinghe on multiple social occasions. Ning Rongrong, in particular, had developed a very close and comfortable relationship with Xue Qinghe.
However, during every encounter, Yang Xiong especially enjoyed teasing Xue Qinghe about his age and continued unmarried status. Ning Fengzhi, serving as Xue Qinghe's respected teacher, had even begun making plans to personally arrange a suitable marriage for him, which consistently made Xue Qinghe extremely embarrassed and uncomfortable.
Normally, for someone of Xue Qinghe's age and the exalted status as the Heaven Dou Empire's Crown Prince, producing imperial heirs would be of utmost importance and urgent priority. Yet Xue Qinghe completely disregarded these expectations, not even having any romantic rumors or relationships, which struck many as highly abnormal behavior.
Even though Xue Qinghe maintained slight irritation with Yang Xiong's persistent comments, Yang Xiong continued bringing up the topic every time they met. The two families were simply too familiar and close for any serious conflict. Xue Qinghe, as Ning Fengzhi's direct disciple, was almost like an adopted son, making it impossible to seriously fall out over such relatively minor matters.
At the banquet, Xue Qinghe frequently raised his cup to toast everyone present, but when he encountered Yang Xiong again, his usual diplomatic smile faltered slightly.
Yang Xiong spoke first with characteristic boldness: "Brother Qinghe, we seem like old friends who met at first sight. We are practically family now, so there's absolutely no need for such formal stranger behavior, right?"
Ning Rongrong, standing nearby, immediately scolded Yang Xiong directly. "Yang Xiong, what nonsense are you thinking? How could Prince Brother ever be considered a stranger to us? Do you think everyone is as petty and small-minded as you are?"
Yang Xiong deliberately feigned innocent confusion. "It's excellent if Brother Qinghe doesn't mind my direct approach. By the way, Brother Qinghe, what about that suggestion I offered you during our last meeting?"
Xue Qinghe immediately appeared extremely awkward and uncomfortable, though he maintained a polite smile on his face. "I'm still giving it serious consideration recently. There's really no need for Brother Yang to worry about such personal matters. You are still quite young, and you should prioritize your cultivation development. Don't constantly think about romantic matters between men and women."
The two exchanged several subtle verbal jabs and implications, but to outside observers, they appeared to display a perfect picture of brotherly respect and mutual regard. Ning Fengzhi looked quite pleased with their apparent friendship.
Yang Xiong, however, thought to himself with amusement, 'You fake Xue Qinghe, I want to see exactly how long you can maintain this elaborate charade.'
However, when Yang Xiong returned to his dormitory later that evening, someone knocked on his door. It turned out to be Dai Mubai and Zhu Zhuqing arriving together.
Yang Xiong invited the two visitors into his living room and casually poured them cups of tea. As the old saying goes, 'one does not visit the temple without a specific purpose.' Although he and Dai Mubai were teammates, their personal friendship wasn't particularly deep, so he wondered what important matter had brought them to his door.
"Dai Mubai, why aren't you cultivating at this late hour? What brings you to visit me?"
Dai Mubai's expression was extremely serious and determined. "Yang Xiong, I want to discuss the Soul Master Elite Competition with you in detail."
Yang Xiong appeared somewhat confused. "What exactly is there to discuss about it? We should be perfectly fine just participating normally and giving our best effort. However, we do have some reasonable hope of advancing to the promotion rounds."
Dai Mubai said with obvious intensity, "Yang Xiong, I know you haven't given your complete effort from the very beginning until now. I desperately hope you can help me, and help Zhuqing as well."
Yang Xiong smiled diplomatically. "What makes you say such a thing? If you really have any serious trouble or concerns, you can certainly bring them up openly, and we can all work together to find solutions."
Dai Mubai remained silent for a long moment before speaking. "You should have known about Zhuqing's background and mine for quite some time, right? This Soul Master Elite Competition is directly related to our future prospects and survival, so I absolutely must win, and even shine brilliantly during the final rounds."
Yang Xiong took a thoughtful sip of his tea. "I have indeed heard about the complex political matters concerning the Star Luo Empire, but I believe that whether in this competition or in other situations, I have consistently done my fair share and responsibility. I have also tried my absolute best to contribute meaningfully to our team's success."
Dai Mubai continued earnestly, "Yang Xiong, have you heard that the prize for the championship winner includes three Spirit Bones? I don't want anything else from this competition. I just desperately want us to do everything possible to defeat the Star Luo Royal Academy team."
Yang Xiong smiled knowingly. "Spirit Bones are undoubtedly valuable treasures, but you need to remain alive to claim and use them effectively. As for our team's performance, I will certainly do my absolute best, but for us currently, both achieving the championship and facing the Star Luo Royal Academy team remain extremely distant possibilities."
Seeing Yang Xiong's clearly perfunctory and diplomatic response, Dai Mubai felt helpless frustration. "Yang Xiong, we've been teammates for several years now. I understand your true strength better than anyone else on this team. Even if Tang San and I combine our efforts now, I'm not confident we could defeat you in serious combat, and you've never even used a single spirit ring ability."
Yang Xiong spoke directly and honestly, "I should have explained to you previously why I avoid using spirit ring abilities. Have you ever seriously considered why you, as a legitimate prince of the Star Luo Empire, can openly appear and study at Heaven Dou Royal Academy? The political situation is probably far more complicated than it appears."
After their brief but meaningful conversation, Dai Mubai departed with Zhu Zhuqing. Yang Xiong couldn't help but shake his head sadly as he watched their retreating figures disappear into the night.
Yang Xiong understood very clearly that Dai Mubai, as a prince of the Star Luo Empire, probably still harbored ambitions to return to the Star Luo Empire and contend for the imperial throne. The foundation for all these hopes was his ability to defeat Dai Weisi in combat. However, Dai Weisi had already reached Rank 49, far beyond what Dai Mubai could currently handle.
Especially without the Qirong Tongtian Chrysanthemum enhancement, Dai Mubai's combat power was significantly less formidable than in the original timeline. Similarly, Zhu Zhuqing, lacking the Narcissus Jade Muscle Bone enhancement, faced a huge spirit power rank gap, making the difference even more pronounced compared to the powerful combination of Dai Weisi and Zhu Zhuyun.
However, just after Dai Mubai left, another group of visitors arrived at Yang Xiong's door. This time, it consisted of Ning Fengzhi, Yu Xiaogang, Tang San, and naturally, Bone Douluo.
After the banquet, Tang San had met privately with Xue Qinghe and Ning Fengzhi. Clearly, they had been discussing the origins of the Clear Sky Hammer and Tang Hao's current situation, but Yang Xiong maintained no particular interest in those political complexities.
Seeing Ning Fengzhi approach, Yang Xiong quickly said with respect, "Sect Master, what brings you to visit me at this hour? Rongrong is staying in the building next door if you're looking for her."
Ning Fengzhi's expression became more serious. "Yang Xiong, don't be so nervous and defensive. We simply have important matters to discuss with you."
Yang Xiong's face displayed obvious doubt and confusion. Logically, if this concerned Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan business, they would approach him directly. Why bring Yu Xiaogang and Tang San into the discussion?
Ning Fengzhi paused thoughtfully before speaking. "Yang Xiong, do you truly understand the significance of this Soul Master Elite Competition, particularly the importance of achieving the championship?"
Yang Xiong considered the question carefully before responding. "I heard that the prize for the championship includes three Spirit Bones. I suspect these three Spirit Bones are not ordinary treasures, correct?"
Ning Fengzhi nodded gravely. "Spirit Hall offered three Spirit Bones this time because they possess absolute confidence in their team's victory. According to my reliable intelligence, the Spirit Hall team this time is called the Golden Generation, featuring three Spirit Kings, with all other members above Rank 45."
Yang Xiong also fell silent for a moment, processing this information. "Sect Master, I've heard similar reports about their strength. With our team's current capabilities, we remain far too distant from Spirit Hall's team level. There appears to be no realistic hope of victory at all."
Ning Fengzhi sighed deeply. "I also recognize that there exists a tremendous gap between our sides, and I understand Spirit Hall's underlying purpose this time even more clearly. Spirit Hall wants to use a crushing and overwhelming victory to elevate their prestige to its absolute peak. Following that demonstration, their status in the Spirit Master world will become even more stable and dominant, while the status of our Upper Three Sects will face serious challenges."
Yang Xiong's face showed genuine confusion. "Sect Master, aren't you perhaps exaggerating the situation somewhat? Although Spirit Hall is undeniably powerful, our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan maintains a close relationship with the Heaven Dou Royal Family and shouldn't fear them directly."
Ning Fengzhi shook his head seriously. "The current Supreme Pontiff of Spirit Hall is exceptionally strong and extraordinarily ambitious. In recent years, she has developed rapidly using iron-fisted methods, bringing all slightly outstanding young talents throughout the entire Spirit Master world under their direct control. Their accumulated strength might be even more formidable than I initially imagined."
"Particularly the current Supreme Pontiff Bibi Dong—not only is she absolutely ruthless in external dealings, but she maintains extremely strict internal discipline. I fear she will eventually create serious difficulties for us, and at that time, our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan might not be able to stand alone against their pressure."
Yang Xiong felt helpless about the political situation. "Sect Master, it seems I cannot do anything significant about this either. I am currently just a Spirit Elder. If this conversation were happening five years later, I would be confident in fighting them effectively."
"Besides, what does this political situation have to do with Tang San and Grandmaster Yu?"
Ning Fengzhi smiled meaningfully. "Of course, it's not unrelated to them. Grandmaster Yu Xiaogang was born into the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan, and Tang San was born into the Clear Sky Sect. Your coming together this time can be considered a cooperation between the Upper Three Sects, meaning our three families are jointly resisting Spirit Hall's growing influence. Yu Yuanzhen has already written to me directly, and we even maintain some contact with the reclusive Clear Sky Sect."
Yang Xiong felt speechless upon hearing this explanation. Ning Fengzhi seemed quite enthusiastic about being the first to stick his neck out and take risks. Wasn't he afraid of being specifically targeted by Spirit Hall in the future? One should understand that the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan had long since retreated from active politics, and the Clear Sky Sect had also gone into complete seclusion. Only the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan remained relatively active and visible.
"Sect Master, no matter how extensively our Upper Three Sects cooperate, I'm afraid we still cannot realistically defeat their three Spirit Kings. At the very least, I cannot conceive of any viable strategy for success."
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