Chapter 7 - 61 to 70

Chapter 61: The Poison is Cured?

Chapter 61: 61. The poison... is cured?

"Master, it has been a long time!"

The voice was both familiar and strange.

Zhou Ting opened his eyes and saw standing at the entrance of the secret room... Xue Qinghe!

"The poison... is cured?"

He looked just as he did when they first met five years ago, only his temperament had matured slightly.

At this moment, his face was rosy, and his short golden hair looked very spirited; he didn't look like someone who had just been cured of poison.

When Xue Beng saw this "good" brother of his, a flash of disappointment crossed his eyes, vanishing in an instant.

He asked with a face full of concern.

"Father, where are Uncle and the others?"

Xue Qinghe wore a look of deep sorrow.

"They... in order to save me, they have already gone!"

Gone!

How could Xue Beng not understand these words? It meant they were all dead.

Xue Beng broke into a loud, mournful cry.

"Father! Uncle!"

Whether it was for show or out of genuine sincerity, Xue Beng stumbled and rushed into the secret room.

Xue Qinghe recalled what she had just learned; her expression was complex, and a lingering sense of sorrow remained in her heart.

When she was very young, her father, Qian Xunji, had died!

And that woman... gave birth to her but did not raise her!

How much she had yearned for a father's and mother's love, yet it was unattainable.

But this time, she had actually felt a hint of... a father's love she had never experienced before from an enemy... Emperor Xue Ye.

It was so warm.

"If... Father were still here, how wonderful that would be!"

In truth, Emperor Xue Ye's exchange of his life for hers had been a futile sacrifice.

The ritual had failed!

And while she had been conscious, she had been powerless to do anything.

In the end, she had relied on an antidote sent secretly to overcome the crisis.

Ning Fengzhi looked at his lively disciple with doubt, his gaze probing.

Xue Qinghe was meticulous and knew her teacher suspected her, so she reached out her hand and said frankly,

"Master, I don't know what my current situation is either. I must ask you to check!"

"Alright!"

Ning Fengzhi didn't even pretend to hesitate and immediately agreed, sending his spirit power into... his cheap disciple's body, which was filled with golden Holy Light!

It was no longer like what he had seen on the day of the assassination; now, the Spirit Master poison in his body had completely vanished.

"The poison is indeed cured. Incredible!"

"Truly incredible. Such a violent Spirit Master poison was actually cured by a secret technique?!"

"Just what kind of secret technique is this?"

Xue Qinghe pulled at the corners of his mouth bitterly.

"I would rather Father and the others hadn't performed the secret technique. This technique... is a life-for-a-life exchange. It uses their spirit power, life force, and everything else to activate the Vast Sea Cosmic Shroud and cleanse all abnormal states."

"The conditions for use are harsh, and the failure rate is extremely high!"

"That I succeeded this time... was pure luck!"

"Is that so?"

Ning Fengzhi was lost in thought.

Xue Qinghe bowed deeply to Ning Fengzhi and took out a decree from a storage spirit tool, requesting,

"Teacher, for what comes next... I will need your help to maintain the stability of the Empire!"

"The Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School is bound by duty!"

...A country cannot be without a ruler for a single day. Xue Qinghe's coronation ceremony was held the very next day.

This was the old Emperor's wish; Xue Qinghe's coronation and his own funeral were to be kept simple.

Moreover, he had long since prepared and left behind two succession decrees, both within the storage spirit tool he carried with him.

Regardless of success or failure, one of either Xue Qinghe or Xue Beng would obtain these two decrees naming different heirs.

When the time came, they would only need to display one and destroy the other.

Having ascended to the long-dreamed-of imperial throne, Xue Qinghe suddenly found that she wasn't as happy as she had imagined.

"Scheming for over a decade, even willing to slow down my Cultivate speed just for this chair. Now that it's in my hands, everything feels so... dull."

Xue Qinghe didn't know why she felt this way in her heart.

"Greetings, Your Highness... oh, wait, it should be Your Majesty!"

Xue Qinghe looked expressionlessly at the bowing She Long and coldly questioned him,

"On the day of the assassination, why were you not there?!"

She Long wore a bitter smile and pleaded his case.

"The High Priest's orders, I did not dare to disobey. Besides, with Elder Golden Crocodile there, I thought nothing would go wrong. Who knew... the High Priest had planned it this way!"

Xue Qinghe's expression softened slightly as she asked in confusion,

"Was it just Grandpa, or did that... woman intervene?"

That woman!

She Long understood the discord between his Young Lord and her mother perfectly well and answered calmly,

"His Holiness the Pope reported all your matters to the High Priest and then took no further action. And the High Priest said..."

She Long regretted it a bit; he really shouldn't have talked so much.

Xue Qinghe said nothing, staring at him with a cold, stern face.

She Long was helpless; he didn't even wait for Xue Qinghe to ask, pouring everything out like beans from a bamboo tube, clean and quick.

"After the High Priest learned of the situation, he felt... your plan was too troublesome. Therefore, he decided to end the battle quickly."

After hearing this, Xue Qinghe's feelings were complex.

"Grandpa's methods are truly... ruthless. Worthy of being the Grand Elder of the Spirit Hall Judgement Hall, always disregarding all taboos to eliminate all enemies!"

"He must have known about the Heaven Dou Imperial family's secret technique long ago. So, he sent people to contact the remnants of the deceased princes and provided the same poison to assassinate me."

"Ultimately forcing... him to use the secret technique!"

"But, what if he didn't use it?"

She Long smiled confidently and said,

"He would definitely use it. Once the plan reached that stage, it was no longer up to him; it was merely a difference between being proactive or reactive."

Xue Qinghe suddenly understood.

"No wonder he had Grandpa Golden Crocodile come over!"

At this moment, all of Qian Daoliu's plans were laid out before her.

The plan wasn't complicated; one could even say it was simple and crude to the extreme.

The key point... was sheer dominance.

Those who follow me prosper, those who oppose me perish.

No matter what choice Emperor Xue Ye made, he had to act according to his wishes.

"Grandpa, oh Grandpa, you've left me with no sense of accomplishment, you know."

After hearing this, She Long didn't know how to respond.

Thousands of miles away in Spirit City, at the Supreme Pontiff Palace.

Bibi Dong crossed her long, snowy-white legs, quietly enjoying... the solitude.

Suddenly, Chrysanthemum Douluo walked in quickly, unable to hide the joy on his face.

"Your Holiness!"

"It succeeded."

Chrysanthemum Douluo praised,

"Your Holiness is as brilliant as a god; the High Priest's plan has succeeded."

Bibi Dong did not show much joy, saying with a face full of resentment,

"Hmph, that old fogey... his way of doing things is as overbearing as ever."

Chrysanthemum Douluo trembled; he really didn't want to hear such words, but he couldn't leave!

Bibi Dong picked up her scepter and strode out of the palace, while also instructing,

"Take some people to the Heaven Dou Empire, secretly find the loyalists of the other princes, and guide them..."

Chrysanthemum Douluo trembled with excitement and shouted loudly,

"Your Holiness is wise and martial; this subordinate is far inferior!"

A faint smile touched the corner of Bibi Dong's mouth as she waved her hand and said,

"Go, make the Heaven Dou Empire even more lively!"

Before her eyes, a truly unified Empire seemed to appear.

She wanted to cleanse the filth and evil of the world.Chapter 62: 62 Recognized

Chapter 62: 62. Recognized

"Rongrong, who is she?"

Xue Qinghe's gaze toward Zhu Zhuqing was somewhat unusual. Ning Rongrong noticed this and, with a start, calmly stepped in front of Zhu Zhuqing and said,

"Zhuqing is my good friend!"

As a woman herself, how could Xue Qinghe not see the wariness in Ning Rongrong's eyes? She clearly thought she had taken an interest in Zhu Zhuqing.

She couldn't help but find it somewhat ridiculous.

Although Zhu Zhuqing's figure... even she was envious of it, her sexual orientation was perfectly normal!

Xue Qinghe laughed heartily as she explained.

"Haha, Rongrong, you've misunderstood me. I just thought your friend's... Storage Pouch looked a bit familiar!"

Ning Rongrong had personally witnessed the origins of the Storage Pouch on Zhu Zhuqing's person.

She had been right there when Zhou Ting handed it over to Zhu Zhuqing.

She couldn't help but glance at the silent Zhou Ting, but she said nothing.

Xue Qinghe continued with a light laugh.

"Five years ago, I went to a Soul Hunting Forest at the border to prepare a gift for my Imperial Father's birthday. I ran into a talented little brother, and before we parted, I gave him a Storage Pouch as a gift..."

Not far away, Zhou Ting, who was listening intently, had a twitch at the corner of his mouth.

A gift? She made it sound so pleasant!

It was clearly an apology for an offense. This Qian Renxue... she really can spin a tale!

Ning Rongrong glanced at Zhou Ting and turned to ask,

"I remember that year, at the Late Emperor's birthday banquet, you, the First Prince, and the Third Prince each presented a treasure... they were all equally matched!"

Xue Qinghe nodded, looking at Zhou Ting with a half-smile as she said meaningfully,

"That year, I had originally planned to obtain the royal jelly of a hundred-year-old Jade Emperor Bee. If I had succeeded, I would have certainly taken the top spot. Unfortunately, I was a step too late; the bees were gone and the nest was empty. Finally, near the hive, I met an interesting little brother."

"By the way, I heard from Chief Instructor Meng Shenji that it was because Rongrong brought a bottle of jade emperor honey that I was able to hang on to my life. Isn't that a coincidence!"

"Don't you agree, little brother Zhou Ting?"

Xue Qinghe's voice was sweet, but it made Zhou Ting's scalp tingle, and cold sweat broke out on his forehead.

He had originally thought that Xue Qinghe had long forgotten his existence, but who knew that she had already investigated his identity and only now came to settle the score!

Since his cover was blown, he stopped pretending and spoke "generously."

"Ahem, Brother Xue, long time no see. But, when did you find out it was me?"

Xue Qinghe said with a half-smile,

"Do you have some misunderstanding about our Heaven Dou Empire's intelligence System? Aside from the fact that you stayed on the outskirts of the Star Dou Great Forest for five years, which we didn't know, we can find out anything else as long as someone knows it."

Nonsense!

This was definitely not just the Heaven Dou Empire's capability; Spirit Hall must have helped as well.

But Zhou Ting didn't dare to refute her and gave a sheepish smile.

"Brother Xue, your visit this time is for..."

Xue Qinghe showed no imperial airs at all, saying with a look of grievance,

"Sigh, it's truly heartbreaking. Someone is holding my token, yet he hasn't come to see me for five years."

Zhou Ting made a bitter face and barely managed to find an excuse.

"Ahem, I just felt embarrassed to come and trouble you!"

"Heh..."

Xue Qinghe glanced at the two girls who were looking at her warily, then said to Zhou Ting,

"There's an auction tomorrow!"

Leaving behind an invitation, Xue Qinghe departed decisively.

Looking at the gold-embossed invitation on the table, Zhou Ting felt numb all over.

What incredible confidence!

He was confident that Zhou Ting would not refuse.

However, Xue Qinghe should have that confidence.

After all, he was the current Heaven Dou Emperor, Emperor Qinghe!

And Zhou Ting... was still living within his Empire.

Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing suddenly sat opposite him, both looking him straight in the eye as they asked,

"What exactly is going on?"

Seeing two pairs of eyes full of gossip, Zhou Ting felt somewhat helpless and explained,

"To call it a gift is... more accurately, an apology, and also an investment!"

Ning Rongrong became even more curious and pressed on,

"Tell us more!"

Although Zhu Zhuqing didn't speak, her expectant little gaze... meant the same thing.

Zhou Ting said with a bitter smile,

"Back then, Xue Qinghe didn't go alone; he also brought a guard with terrifyingly high cultivation. Because I had picked up some Jade Emperor Bee corpses, that guard forced an inspection of my tree hollow."

Regarding the matter of Xiao Wu, he still subconsciously hid it.

"In the end, Xue Qinghe gave me a token and a Storage Pouch."

Ning Rongrong's little head was spinning so fast it was about to explode as she extracted several key pieces of information.

"Hmm, he said the hive was empty. Does that have something to do with you? After all, Uncle Ning Ke did say that you wore a mask and sold two pounds of honey back then!"

Speaking of this, Ning Rongrong remembered the events of five years ago.

She absolutely loved the taste of jade emperor honey. Due to her father's doting, most of those two pounds of honey ended up in her stomach.

Because of that, her Cultivation speed after level ten had increased significantly.

But later, she had slacked off.

Previously, they had never known Zhou Ting's true identity and had been waiting for him to show up again.

Little did they know, they were defeated by the strong purchasing power of gold coins.

After all, as a person, Zhou Ting didn't understand any high-level luxuries; as long as he had enough money to spend, it was fine.

He had no great desire to make money!

"Alright, you guessed right. Back then, when I went to obtain my first spirit ring, I was looking for the Jade Emperor Bee Queen... you can probably guess what happened next!"

"So that's how it was!"

Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing looked at each other and laughed, thinking of how utterly frustrated Xue Qinghe must have been at the time.

"Wait!"

Ning Rongrong suddenly cried out in surprise, looking at Zhou Ting with a face full of shock.

Zhou Ting looked himself over in confusion; nothing seemed out of place.

Zhu Zhuqing asked curiously,

"Rongrong, what's wrong?"

Ning Rongrong asked Zhou Ting in astonishment,

"You obtained your first spirit ring at age six, which means your talent is quite good, even higher than mine. So why were you only at level twenty-one last time at Shrek Academy?"

Zhou Ting looked at her with envy.

"I'm not like you all, having a Family or Sect to teach you from a young age. I'm just an ordinary person who came out of a small mountain village. I had no guidance from experts, let alone help from any power. I even had to find and subdue suitable Spirit Beasts myself, which took up a lot of my time."

Hearing this, Ning Rongrong was very puzzled.

"Back then, you must have seen... his intent to recruit you. Why didn't you come?"

Come to Heaven Dou City?

Zhou Ting had thought about it, many times in fact.

But he had always given up on the idea.

Heaven Dou City was not peaceful, and it would be even less so if he joined Xue Qinghe.

Xue Beng and Prince Xue Xing were no pushovers. If Zhou Ting came to Heaven Dou City, he would certainly be targeted. How could he then Cultivate in peace and... keep his secrets!

And this was while he still didn't know that the First and Third Princes weren't actually dead.

If he had known, he definitely wouldn't have come!Chapter 63: Transaction

Chapter 63: 63. Transaction

In the end, he still couldn't make it to the auction.

It wasn't that Zhou Ting didn't want to go, but... Heaven Dou Royal Academy, Male Dormitory.

With the endorsement of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School, Zhou Ting and Zhu Zhuqing's enrollment went without a hitch, and Xue Beng didn't even show up to cause trouble.

Furthermore, this place finally wasn't like the Elementary Spirit Master Academy where males and females lived together.

This allowed for much more freedom.

Living in a dormitory with women he had no "relationship" with was truly inconvenient!

For example, when it was hot in the summer, he always wanted to cool off a bit, but... just as Zhou Ting was preparing to head out to the auction, Xue Qinghe suddenly appeared before him.

Zhou Ting felt suspicious.

"Could he be worried... that I won't go?"

"Otherwise, why would he come to the dormitory to corner me?"

Xue Qinghe sized Zhou Ting up with a surprised gaze.

Unable to withstand such a blatant stare, Zhou Ting asked awkwardly.

"Ahem, shouldn't an Emperor be very busy?"

The implication was... you're way too idle!

Xue Qinghe caught the meaning but didn't care, teasingly saying,

"Tsk tsk, someone was bold enough to do such a 'good deed.' Shouldn't I come to admire it?"

Zhou Ting's heart skipped a beat; it was a feeling of panic.

Of course, on the surface, he still maintained a look of ignorance and asked innocently,

"What good deed?"

He acted so realistically that if Xue Qinghe hadn't received definite intelligence, he really wouldn't have believed Zhou Ting did it.

"Haha, how much do you look down on the Poison Douluo to actually move his entire Medicinal Garden away!"

Zhou Ting remained calm on the surface, but internally he sucked in a breath of cold air.

"How was I exposed!"

As for... how he was exposed?

If Xue Qinghe hadn't used the power of the Spirit Hall to dig deep into Zhou Ting's information, he really wouldn't have discovered it.

Who told a certain someone to have such a unique love for the fat tiger mask!

Xue Qinghe sat down leisurely, maintaining a relaxed posture of having everything under control.

A perfectly timed look of confusion appeared on Zhou Ting's face as he asked back,

"Brother Xue, I don't understand what you're talking about?"

Even at this point, this kid was still playing dumb!

What a fine actor!

Xue Qinghe shook his head with a smile, thinking it was lucky he was the one who came; if it had been his grandfather, there wouldn't be so much nonsense.

If he didn't admit it, give him a beating; if one beating wasn't enough, give him two... and if it got annoying, just beat him to death.

It was only because his grandfather couldn't leave the Spirit Hall for certain reasons.

Otherwise, she wouldn't have needed to carry out any undercover plan at all.

It was all because of that woman... that she had come here!

Thinking of that woman, Xue Qinghe lost interest in playing with Zhou Ting.

He sat up straight and said seriously,

"Zhou Ting, don't underestimate the power of a Titled Douluo. What you did cannot be hidden; exposure is only a matter of time."

Zhou Ting felt incredibly bitter: He's completely certain it was me!

But he was wronged, more wronged than Dou E!

He clearly hadn't obtained anything, yet he took the fall. Had he known... thinking of the Ninth Level of the Black Tower, he still would have gone!

"Brother Xue... what exactly are you thinking?"

Xue Qinghe said with a smile,

"I can help you!"

Zhou Ting was overjoyed and thanked him repeatedly,

"That would be wonderful. Thank you, Brother Xue!"

Xue Qinghe rolled his eyes; he had never seen such a shameless person.

To actually... expect to settle this debt of gratitude with just a single thank you.

No wonder it took five years for him to come to Heaven Dou City. He might not even have come looking for him.

Xue Qinghe figured it all out, and a surge of unvented resentment made him speak sarcastically.

"You still want to get something for nothing?"

Seeing that he couldn't leech his way out, Zhou Ting finally showed his true face and asked solemnly,

"What do you want?"

"I don't understand. You are the Heaven Dou Great Emperor, and I'm just a small character. What could you possibly need from me?"

Xue Qinghe gave a light laugh and said,

"Finally stopped pretending?"

"Right now, you indeed don't have much value, but with your freakish talent, as long as you're given enough time... your value will be immeasurable!"

To actually measure him by value.

Zhou Ting was very unhappy.

Moreover, Xue Qinghe had likely uncovered most of his secrets!

However, Zhou Ting didn't speak, letting Xue Qinghe continue.

"In the future, I am going to do a great matter, and I will need all the help I can get."

"Is it dangerous?"

Xue Qinghe's expression turned strange as he said uncertainly,

"It shouldn't be... too dangerous. At least, there won't be any threat to your life."

Hearing this, Zhou Ting understood a bit. He looked with pity at this woman whose parents were "both dead." She was a poor child, lacking both fatherly and motherly love since childhood.

In the next moment, Zhou Ting stared blankly at Xue Qinghe.

Xue Qinghe felt that Zhou Ting was thinking something rude, but he had no evidence.

Furthermore, he actually had a feeling of being seen through.

This wasn't normal!

Xue Qinghe strongly disliked this feeling and asked stiffly,

"What are you looking at?"

Zhou Ting quickly retracted his mental force and forced himself to stay calm.

"Ahem, nothing. I was just thinking that your current bargaining chips... aren't enough!"

What a greedy boy!

Xue Qinghe was silent for a moment before saying,

"I will erase your traces, and I will also help you modify your Spirit Appraisal Document..."

Zhou Ting feigned shock.

"You can control the Spirit Hall?"

Xue Qinghe was very confident, looking down from above.

"That's none of your business. Just say whether you agree or not!"

"Fine, I agree!"

Xue Qinghe nodded with satisfaction and finally had the chance to ask the question in his heart.

"Is Dugu Bo's Medicinal Garden really that good that you had to completely empty it? And..."

"It only took you half a night!"

At this moment, the way Xue Qinghe looked at Zhou Ting was as if he were looking at a peerless thief.

Zhou Ting thought of the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well that had flown away, as well as the Immortal Herbs, and for a moment he was overwhelmed by grief and indignation.

"If I said I didn't do it, would you believe me?"

Xue Qinghe glanced at Zhou Ting: As if I'd believe you.

If you didn't do it, why would you make a deal with me?

"Alright, if you don't want to say, then forget it. You'd better be careful for the next few days and don't make a move no matter what. I'll be heading back now."

Watching Xue Qinghe leave, Zhou Ting felt very uneasy.

If he hadn't guessed wrong, what Xue Qinghe—or rather, Qian Renxue—wanted to do was prove herself. She wanted to make the woman who abandoned her regret it!

But Zhou Ting knew the whole story.

Her mother Bibi Dong hadn't given birth to her voluntarily. Not aborting her was already considered a great surge of maternal instinct on Bibi Dong's part.

How could one demand too much from her?

If Bibi Dong really kept her by her side, wouldn't she be constantly reminding herself of that unbearable and painful memory that lasted a lifetime?

So, just sending her to her grandfather to be raised instead of killing her was already quite good.

"Qian Xunji... he really committed a great sin!"

Zhou Ting sighed as he compared the mother and daughter, Bibi Dong and Qian Renxue.

"Like mother, like daughter. They are both just as stubborn, just as... bullheaded!"

Zhou Ting recalled the golden image he had just "seen"... no lewd thoughts allowed!

The main thing was, he was... still young and had to prioritize his Cultivation.

Zhou Ting summoned the Black Tower, and his expression turned a bit sour.

" I didn't notice at the time and revealed my Second Spirit Ability in front of Dugu Yan. It seems I should use the Soul Passing Worm less!"

"Qian Renxue only paid a little attention and guessed that I did it. I really can't underestimate anyone!"

"Compared to me, they just don't have memories of the future. As for wisdom and strategy... I don't have any advantage."Chapter 64: Enemies Everywhere?!

Chapter 64: 64. Enemies Everywhere?!

Counting them up, Zhou Ting suddenly realized that he had quite a few troubles on his hands.

Because of the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well, he had offended Dugu Bo and Dugu Yan.

Because of Dai Mubai's wife-stealing... cough cough, that was an irreconcilable feud that would eventually end in a life-or-death struggle.

By extension, he had also offended everyone in Shrek Academy from top to bottom.

Mhm, there was also a landmine here... Li Yusong's death. He didn't know when it would explode, but once it did... he would be mortal enemies with most of Shrek.

Mhm, and then there was Xue Beng.

During Xue Qinghe's succession ceremony, the way he looked at Zhou Ting and Ning Rongrong was not right.

It should be hatred... for the bottle of honey Ning Rongrong brought out to "help" Xue Qinghe through the crisis. However, what he didn't know was that even if Ning Rongrong hadn't given it, Xue Qinghe wouldn't have been poisoned to death anyway.

Regardless, fate was not on his side right now; he simply had no chance of taking the throne!

He... was hating the wrong person.

Unfortunately, this couldn't be explained clearly.

Another enemy added to the list.

In short, Zhou Ting suddenly found that his situation was very dangerous.

"And... Tang Hao. Although he might not specifically target me, if we meet again, I'll feel uneasy!"

"If this continues, with Tang San, the Clear Sky Sect... I'm on track to have enemies all over the World!"

The next moment, Zhou Ting put on a "pure and innocent" expression and murmured.

"I can't believe that an honest, good kid like me has actually made so many enemies. This World... is sick!"

In any case, he couldn't possibly be in the wrong.

It was just like those famous aphorisms—why were there so many that were completely contradictory?

For example: A rabbit doesn't eat the grass around its burrow, yet the one who is closest gets the prize!

Another example: Details determine success or failure, yet those who achieve great things do not sweat the small stuff!

These were all excuses, used only to seek a clear conscience.

It had to be said, the human capacity for self-gaslighting... was truly terrifying!

"I wonder... if Xiao Wu found my message over there..."

Xiao Wu had naturally seen the message, and it had given her quite a fright.

Star Dou Great Forest, Shrek Academy's temporary camp.

"Brother..."

Under the night sky, Xiao Wu walked over gracefully, looking like a Fairy descended from the moon palace, a rare beauty in the World.

But... Tang San didn't want such a cold Fairy. What he wanted was his younger sister—his lively, cheerful, and cute good sister.

How on earth did things develop this way?

In an instant, Tang San found the instigator, or rather, the scapegoat... Zhou Ting.

It was all Zhou Ting's fault; that despicable fellow already had a way to court death!

A flash of Killing Intent crossed Tang San's eyes as he made a cold vow in his heart.

The next time we meet will be the day you die!

Tang San looked at Xiao Wu as she arrived before him, regained his composure, and asked with a smile.

"Xiao Wu, what's wrong?"

Xiao Wu didn't notice Tang San's abnormality; her brow was slightly furrowed, and she was preoccupied with her thoughts.

She sat on the other side of the campfire, looking at Tang San across the flames.

In the flickering firelight, the face opposite her appeared and disappeared, seeming exceptionally strange.

Xiao Wu's gaze was piercing as she stared intently at Tang San's slightly purple pupils.

"Brother, what Spirit Ability did your eyes Cultivate?"

Tang San was puzzled; in the past, Xiao Wu didn't care about these self-created Spirit Abilities, did she?

After all, in her words: Having the Soft Technique was enough for her.

However, Tang San believed she was purely lazy; forget self-created Spirit Abilities, she even slacked off on spirit power Cultivation.

Of course, he could only think it, not say it aloud.

Although rabbits were herbivores, when they got grumpy, their kicks were incredibly fierce.

Speaking of which, ever since that kid Zhou Ting appeared and then disappeared at Shrek, she had become diligent once again.

Mhm, he remembered the last time... was when Zhou Ting hadn't left yet, and the three of them were competing.

"Pah, pah, pah... how unlucky, why am I thinking of that despicable fellow again!"

Tang San knew he couldn't think about it anymore; if he did, his Killing Intent would overflow!

In any case, he couldn't let Xiao Wu know!

With confusion in his heart, Tang San began to explain in Detail.

"This Spirit Ability of mine is called the Purple Demon Eye. You've seen me Cultivate it before; every day at sunrise, I absorb a strand of purple Qi to train my eyes."

"The Purple Demon Eye has four levels in total. The first level is called Surveying..."

As Tang San spoke, he circulated his power to demonstrate, a faint purple hue appearing in his eyes.

"At the Surveying Realm, one can enhance their eyesight, expand their field of vision, and view a target from more angles!"

"The second level is called Detail..."

By now, Tang San's eyes were completely covered by purple Qi, appearing extremely... eerie!

"This is the Realm I am currently in. I can see the minute changes in things, which provides a massive boost in battle!"

"As for the third level... it's called Mustard Seed; the fourth is Vastness."

At this point, Tang San gave a bitter smile.

"I am currently stuck at the Peak of the second level, unable to achieve a Breakthrough for a long time."

Tang San thought of the next level of the Purple Demon Eye with some yearning.

"I've only seen descriptions in ancient texts. Upon reaching the third level, the Mustard Seed Realm, one can see through all illusions."

"As for the highest level, the Vastness Realm, one can condense the Mind's Eye. With the Mind's Eye, one can see through everything in the World without using their physical eyes; nothing can ever deceive them again."

Tang San looked sighed with emotion. In fact, back in the Tang Sect, he had discovered that no one had ever successfully mastered the highest level of the Purple Demon Eye.

However, since he had come to this magical World, he would be the one to complete this grand feat!

"What an amazing Self-created Spirit Ability!"

Xiao Wu couldn't help but exclaim, yet her mood sank even lower.

She had been too naive before and had never wondered where Tang San had obtained such a terrifying Spirit Ability.

Regarding this, Zhou Ting had given a relatively reasonable explanation: the guy had a good father!

Of course, in reality, these Spirit Abilities had nothing to do with Tang Hao.

But would Tang San dare to reveal the true origin of these Spirit Abilities? He wouldn't dare!

On the other side, Tang Hao, who was in the shadows, heard the conversation between the two clearly, and his heart couldn't help but shake violently.

He was also pondering a question: Where on earth did Little San get so many miraculous self-created Spirit Abilities?

Tang Hao was puzzled. Although he had indeed neglected Little San due to the death of his wife, Ah Yin...

...if he truly hadn't looked after him at all, how could Tang San, an infant, have grown up safely?

Therefore, he had seen everything about Tang San.

This included the first time Little San left home alone to train his body and Cultivate self-created Spirit Abilities!

It was just that because his mind wasn't on the boy, he hadn't paid it any mind.

Thinking carefully about it now...

"This isn't right!"

"How could a child who knew absolutely nothing about the Spirit Master's world create these Spirit Abilities on his own?"

Tang Hao was certain that these Spirit Abilities absolutely did not exist in Saint Spirit Village!

"And..."

Tang Hao recalled everything about his son and made a somewhat terrifying discovery.

"Little San has never cried!"

"Except for when he was just born..."

An inexplicable emotion welled up in Tang Hao's heart, but in an instant... Tang Hao seemed to forget all these questions and laughed freely.

"He is the son of me, Tang Hao; no matter how excellent he is, it is only to be expected."

Everything... was settled!

At the same time, within the Void Realm that Spirit Masters could not reach, an indifferent voice rang out.

"The established trajectory of fate has changed. Who is it..."Chapter 65: Yu Xiaogang's Analysis

Chapter 65: 65. Yu Xiaogang's Analysis

The conversation continued. Tang San underwent a small internal struggle before asking,

"Xiao Wu, do you want to learn? I can teach you, but..."

Xiao Wu wasn't originally interested in learning the Purple Demon Eye; after all, what rabbit doesn't enjoy sleeping in?

But when Tang San said the word 'but', she started to get interested.

"But what?"

Tang San said with utmost seriousness,

"Xiao Wu, I've decided to found a Sect. It will be called the Tang Sect, and you should join too."

"Let me think about it!"

As soon as Xiao Wu finished speaking, she dashed away like a puff of smoke; at this moment, her cold, fairy-like demeanor vanished completely.

She suddenly became lively again, and Tang San was happy to see it.

In fact, if Zhou Ting were here, he would probably roast Tang San to death.

After all, this guy had stolen the Tang Sect's ultimate techniques, yet he actually had the nerve to consider himself the orthodox successor of the Tang Sect and now even wanted to establish his own Tang Sect.

Truly... what a thick skin!

The night was deep and quiet.

Since there were many people this time, supplies like tents were exceptionally well-prepared, and everyone had their own private space.

Having finished his daily Cultivation, Dai Mubai sat on a rug, staring blankly through a gap in the tent.

His crushing defeat at the hands of his love rival had happened a month ago.

Although he had pulled himself together after being motivated by Tang San,

and his Rank had increased by one level thanks to Yu Xiaogang's training during this period,

whenever he was alone in the silence of midnight, he would remember that crushing defeat and his mortal enemy's 'Human Sea Tactics', leaving his mind unable to find peace for a long time.

He clearly remembered that until the very end, Zhou Ting hadn't shown a hint of panic; his expression had remained calm throughout... "Maybe... he hasn't even used his full strength yet!"

This thought had appeared in his mind more than once. Facing the face of his mortal enemy, a sense of powerlessness like never before actually rose within his heart.

Now, even if he were to face that enemy again, the result... would still be no different.

"Mubai, are you asleep?"

Dai Mubai hid the frustration and despair on his face and replied with a wooden expression.

"No."

"Dean, come in and talk!"

How could Flender not hear what was on his student's mind? He sighed inwardly and said,

"I won't go in. You come out, let's all have a chat!"

Dai Mubai lifted the curtain and walked out with a calm face.

Flender looked at him, feeling deeply pained.

His once high-spirited, confident, and unrestrained student had now become a brooding recluse.

My education... is truly a failure!

"Dean..."

Flender snapped out of his emotions and said,

"Come with me. Let's collectively analyze... this person, Zhou Ting!"

Hearing this name, Dai Mubai's face twitched. Although his expression didn't change, Flender felt that his student... had come back to life!

However, Flender felt more worry than joy: Xiaogang, is your approach really good?

Don't overstimulate him!

By the campfire, everyone sat in a circle.

Yu Xiaogang, Flender, Zhao Wuji, Tang San, Dai Mubai, Oscar, and Ma Hongjun were all there. They tacitly refrained from mentioning calling Xiao Wu over.

"Everyone is here. Little San, Zhou Ting attended the Elementary Spirit Master Academy with you. Tell us about his situation!"

Tang San always followed his Master's words, but when speaking of Zhou Ting, his expression was somewhat complex.

"Zhou Ting... he's purely a freak..."

As long as one understands a person well enough, they can defeat them!

Dai Mubai's eyes shone brightly, filled with anticipation!

Not just him, Oscar was the same.

Mentioning Zhou Ting made him think of the departed Ning Rongrong. Such a beautiful girl—how could she have quit?

It's all Zhou Ting's fault!

Soon, Tang San finished introducing the situation he knew and concluded,

"...This kid's situation is really off, especially his Spirit Abilities; they're extremely bizarre!"

Yu Xiaogang nodded in agreement.

"Little San is right. I'm not afraid of you laughing, but I've already misjudged Zhou Ting three or four times!"

"His talent absolutely cannot be measured by Innate spirit power. I suspect his previous idiocy was due to some unknown disease. Although the Spirit Awakening cured the disease, too much spirit power was lost from his body, which is why the tested Innate spirit power was relatively low!"

It wasn't exactly right, but it wasn't far off either.

Everyone nodded, all agreeing with Yu Xiaogang's guess.

"As expected of the Grandmaster!"

The four youngsters showed looks of admiration.

Even Flender and Zhao Wuji were no exception, marveling in their hearts.

Yu Xiaogang should have been happy, but a flash of bitterness crossed his eyes as he shook his head.

"It's nothing much. I also misjudged him at first, thinking his talent was limited to that."

Had he known earlier, he would have done whatever it took to take another disciple back then.

Of course, what Yu Xiaogang didn't know was that even if he wanted to take a disciple, Zhou Ting wouldn't be willing.

Yu Xiaogang's explanation continued.

"His Spirit is a black pagoda, a Tool Spirit, with nine floors in total!"

"As for the specific characteristics... he hasn't told anyone!"

Yu Xiaogang glanced at Tang San, his eyes showing some disappointment.

He had once asked Tang San to investigate, but unfortunately, Zhou Ting's lips were sealed; he wouldn't say a word.

However, according to what Tang San said, Xiao Wu should know.

It's just that she is a Little Rabbit who keeps her word!

Therefore, he could only analyze based on the current situation.

"However, based on his two Spirit Abilities, I have guessed a few things."

Dai Mubai was overjoyed and forcefully grabbed Yu Xiaogang's arm to ask,

"What is it?"

"Mubai, don't be rude!"

Flender's large hand slapped Dai Mubai's shoulder, snapping him out of it.

Dai Mubai let go of his hand somewhat ashamed and apologized.

"Grandmaster, I'm sorry, I was too impatient!"

Yu Xiaogang's hand couldn't help but tremble slightly, but he didn't show it as he continued his explanation.

"Zhou Ting's first Spirit Ability is summoning a swarm of Jade Emperor Bees! The second Spirit Ability is summoning a swarm of Soul Passing Worms!"

"The two are very similar!"

"According to my analysis, his Spirit Abilities both come from the... Clan Chiefs of the two species!"

"However, the Spirit Abilities obtained from hunting a Jade Emperor Bee Queen or a Soul Passing Worm Mother are not summoning!"

These facts could be verified; this was his most proficient field. Yu Xiaogang held the pearls of wisdom in his hand, looking confident.

"So... my analysis is that the characteristic of the martial soul black pagoda is summoning... just like the Nine Heart Begonia!"

Everyone suddenly understood, feeling as if the mist before their eyes was gradually dissipating.

Facing so many admiring eyes, Yu Xiaogang felt exceptionally satisfied.

Although his Spirit Master Rank couldn't even compare to Dai Mubai's, he could still succeed by relying on his wisdom!

Let this World witness the power of the Grandmaster's wisdom!

Yu Xiaogang continued his analysis with full confidence.

"Through previous battles, I have discovered that Zhou Ting has one fatal weakness!"

"What weakness?"

Finally reaching the key point, Dai Mubai was too excited, though this time he didn't grab Yu Xiaogang's arm.

Yu Xiaogang felt even more satisfied; this was it, this feeling of being urgently needed by others!

It was truly wonderful!

At this moment, Yu Xiaogang's impression of Dai Mubai improved significantly.Chapter 66: The Eerie Sinkhole Forest

Chapter 66: 66. The Eerie Sinkhole Forest

Yu Xiaogang's face was filled with a confident smile, and his tone was even a bit... contemptuous.

"Although Zhou Ting's Spirit is very powerful, and one could even say he has started a new school of thought, he has, after all, never attended school!"

Indeed, Zhou Ting's choice left him with complex feelings—a bit of regret, but even more envy and jealousy: If only I had such talent!

These emotions eventually transformed into a deeper level of... disdain!

"He doesn't understand the power of knowledge, has never received formal guidance, even wasted a full five years in the middle, and his physical body is weak..."

Zhou Ting would have protested loudly: I'm the type who looks thin in clothes but is ripped underneath... muscles!

Of course, Zhou Ting wasn't here, so he naturally couldn't prove himself.

Yu Xiaogang had a look of regret, as if a promising talent was being utterly wasted.

"Not only that, although his Spirit Ability is miraculous, there are also major issues with his combination. He's all alone, yet he's never even considered the issue of defense; once he's attacked at close range..."

Zhou Ting: Where are your manners? You're a Level 29 little pig. I could take you down using just one Spirit Ability, and not even the full extent of it. How do you have the face to talk so big here!

It was still a pity that Zhou Ting wasn't there.

If he were, he would definitely strike first.

After all, he didn't want to smell pig farts; it was too disgusting!

After listening to Yu Xiaogang's analysis, Dai Mubai's eyes lit up, seeing the dawn of victory for the first time.

Tang San, like the others, looked at Yu Xiaogang with admiration, though he couldn't help but feel a bit of doubt in his heart: Didn't Teacher say something similar the last few times?!!

"Mubai, Cultivate well; defeating Zhou Ting isn't hard!"

"Yes, Grandmaster, I will definitely work hard!"

After swallowing a bowl of thick chicken soup for the soul, Dai Mubai became high-spirited again, regaining his confidence.

"As long as I'm just a bit faster, I can win!"

Well, this poor kid has been completely hoodwinked!

In a tent not far away, Xiao Wu, who others thought was taking a beauty nap, opened her eyes, her gaze filled with quite a bit of helplessness.

Although Grandmaster said a lot, it was all superficial.

As the greatest contributor to helping Zhou Ting obtain his first spirit ring, she, Xiao Wu, was the person who understood the characteristics of the Black Tower best.

Other people's spirit rings are dead, but Zhou Ting's spirit rings are alive; they can grow.

Xiao Wu just didn't want to think about it, but she wasn't stupid; she could see it.

Compared to five years ago, the strength of the Jade Emperor Bees summoned by Zhou Ting's Spirit Ability had grown significantly, far exceeding the speed of natural growth.

Clearly, the growth of the Jade Emperor Bee Queen was boosted by Zhou Ting!

With such terrifying Spirit characteristics, she didn't think Dai Mubai could win.

"Grandmaster?"

Shaking her head, Xiao Wu cleared her mind and unconsciously stroked the bamboo carving on her chest; the warm touch made her heart feel cozy.

"I hope... everything goes smoothly!"

The next morning, the group woke up early.

Coming to the Star Dou Great Forest was for hunting Spirit Beasts and obtaining spirit rings; this was no place for tourism.

Therefore, Xiao Wu's sleep-in was gone.

"Clear everything to avoid any accidents!"

As soon as Yu Xiaogang gave the word, the Five Youngsters immediately followed suit, packing up the tents and burying the remains of the fire.

This was not only to prevent forest fires but also to avoid being targeted by Spirit Beasts.

Yu Xiaogang stood with his hands behind his back, side by side with Flender.

"We need to obtain spirit rings for Little San, Xiao Wu, and Oscar this time; we must hurry!"

Flender couldn't quite understand and said with a puzzled face.

"Xiaogang, we're not in a rush!"

Yu Xiaogang hesitated for a moment, then finally steeled his heart and said.

"I plan to take them to participate in the Advanced Soul Master Tournament!"

Without even thinking, Flender blurted out.

"That's impossible. Setting aside the issue of insufficient manpower, Shrek itself doesn't meet the requirements for participation."

How could Yu Xiaogang not know about these problems? But he had a reason why they had to participate: if he couldn't let these students show off their brilliance in front of others, how could he prove his results and his wisdom?

Moreover, this was also for the children's own good, for the sake of their futures!

Thinking of this, Yu Xiaogang's confidence grew, and he said righteously.

"These are all easy to solve, as long as you... are willing to let go!"

Flender finally understood what he meant.

He looked at his best friend and love rival with a face of disbelief, asking with a grim expression.

"Before you came to Shrek... you already wanted to do this, didn't you?"

Yu Xiaogang felt no guilt at all; his gaze was solemn as he met Flender's eyes without flinching.

"That's right. My Disciple and your students have extraordinary talent; we cannot hold them back... because of our own selfishness!"

These words were heavy and struck Flender right in the heart.

As the saying goes, the person who hurts you the most is often the one closest to you!

His heart was in pain, but Flender knew that what Yu Xiaogang said... was right.

In fact, he himself had even thought about disbanding Shrek Academy.

After all, Shrek's capital chain had long since broken, and it was hovering on the edge of bankruptcy.

Even so, he was still persevering, unwilling to give up.

Furthermore, these children had given him hope.

But now, he actually heard such a cruel idea from his good friend's mouth!

Seeing that Flender still hadn't made up his mind, Yu Xiaogang continued to persuade him with helplessness.

"Flender, the Cultivation conditions at Shrek Academy are too poor. There's no Mimicry Cultivation Environment, no medicinal baths, no various special ingredients..."

Yu Xiaogang's listing of faults made Flender's mood incredibly heavy.

It wasn't that he didn't know these things; it was just that he believed in his students' talent.

But, one couldn't rely on talent alone!

"...Flender, their talent needs better nurturing! And Shrek has none of these!"

Flender endured the heartache, looking utterly dejected.

"We'll do as you say!"

At this moment, Flender seemed to shrink by three inches, and his eyes became clouded.

Yu Xiaogang patted Flender's shoulder with satisfaction and comforted him.

"As long as we are still here, Shrek will have a chance to make a comeback."

Meanwhile, on the other side of the Star Dou Great Forest, three people wrapped tightly from head to toe stepped into the forest.

Although their appearances couldn't be seen clearly, based on that curvaceous figure, one could tell at a glance that the leader was a mature and beautiful woman.

The woman exuded a powerful aura, clearly someone who had held a high position for a long time; her every movement could sway people's hearts.

The direction they were heading... happened to intersect with Shrek's route. At the intersection... if Zhou Ting saw the situation inside, he would cry himself to death!

Flender stood on a cliff, looking down with endless confusion on his face.

Yu Xiaogang had never been here and asked with some incomprehension.

"Flender, is there a problem here?"

"There's a big problem. I remember when I came here five years ago, there was a forest down there. Now..."

"Legend says... a thousand years ago, a meteorite fell from the sky, smashing out a bottomless sinkhole here."

"But what's with this mist?"

Below, a thick fog covered everything.

Flender reached out, wanting to grab a wisp of the black mist.

Tang San, however, hurriedly spoke up to stop him.

"Don't, Dean, this mist is poisonous, highly toxic!"

Flender's extended hand paused for a moment, then... continued into the mist. A mass of black fog rolled above his palm... "Haha, Little San has a good eye!"

Flender felt a bit of lingering fear in his heart; if it hadn't been for Tang San's reminder just now, he definitely would have paid the price for his negligence.

He looked at Dai Mubai and the others, educating them solemnly.

"Learn more from Little San. This is the continent's Forbidden Land... the Star Dou Great Forest. Danger is everywhere; you must be cautious, and then cautious again!"

"Yes, Dean."

Yu Xiaogang chuckled lightly.

After all, they had been best friends for decades; he knew Flender so well that he had long since seen through Flender's guilty conscience, he just didn't point it out.Chapter 67: 67 Fickle Fate

Chapter 67: 67. Fickle Fate

Meanwhile, the three individuals with hidden identities arrived at the other side of the sinkhole.

"...It is said that the thick fog in this deep pit appeared suddenly a few days ago, and someone saw a strange flash of light."

After listening to the report from her subordinate, Miss, the woman asked with great interest.

"Oh, so the herbs carrying the Aura of an Immortal Herb you mentioned were discovered here?"

As if sensing the woman's doubt, Miss quickly said with conviction.

"Yes, my Spirit is the immortal herb, and I am exceptionally sensitive to the Aura of immortal herbs. There can be no mistake."

"Moreover, as soon as I arrived here, I sensed even more of the Immortal Herb's Aura."

Miss was exceptionally excited; that was an Immortal Herb, the pursuit of his entire life.

Now, he could finally see it with his own eyes.

The woman nodded slightly and murmured to herself.

"Ancient records state that in the distant Primordial Era, the Douluo Continent was filled with abundant energy. Powerful humans and Spirit Beasts were everywhere, and even reaching Rank one hundred to become a god was not too difficult..."

At this point, the woman actually became somewhat melancholy.

"Back then, while Immortal Herbs weren't everywhere, they weren't rare either. But after experiencing several great calamities of divine wars, as well as the Evil Spirit Masters..."

"The energy plummeted. Later on, wanting to rely on oneself... to reach Rank one hundred and become a god, it became too difficult!"

The woman sighed to herself, while her two subordinates did not dare to chime in.

In fact, since the Sea God's arduous ascension, there has been only one path to godhood!

...Outside the Douluo Plane, within the endless Void Realm, an indescribable being looked down upon everything happening in the Star Dou Great Forest, its gaze lingering longest on... Tang San.

"Fate... has changed again. Who is setting the board?"

This time, its tone was no longer as indifferent as before, finally carrying a hint of shock.

"Sea God, Asura God, Rakshasa God, Angel God?"

"However, at most they are only at the level of God King Asura; they cannot hide from the eyes of Fate..."

"Could it be..."

Thinking of a certain possibility, its divine heart trembled, and it cast its gaze across an infinite distance.

Nothingness, everything was nothingness.

But in the next moment, its eyes were completely filled with multicolored radiant light!

"Ah!"

The mysterious and powerful deity screamed in pain, using endless willpower to keep from making a fool of itself.

Pain, it was simply too painful!

With eyes tightly closed, it turned toward the Douluo Plane, as if talking to itself, or perhaps explaining to someone.

"Good luck to you all."

"Swish!"

It seemed to dissolve, merging into the endless Void Realm.

At the very last moment before it left, a sigh sounded in its ear.

"Alas, those who toy with fate will eventually be toyed with by fate!"

As if the words carried the force of law, an infinitely terrifying will began to invade its consciousness, its soul, and its... God Position!

...Beyond the unreachable World, a gaze swept across the Douluo Continent, leaving behind a low murmur.

"Interesting, truly interesting. Two unknown... variables, two unknown Worlds."

"Oh, inscrutable fate!"

As the voice fell, it sounded as if countless beasts were roaring. In just an instant, the void outside the plane returned to tranquility once more... "What's going on?"

Tang Hao rubbed his temples with both hands, his brows furrowed tightly, his face contorted in pain.

He only felt... a splitting headache, as if his brain was being split open by an axe.

"Why this sudden headache? Although the injuries from the Ring Explosion haven't recovered, they haven't flared up either."

Tang Hao was completely baffled.

A moment later, the headache finally subsided.

Tang Hao couldn't understand it; he, a Titled Douluo famous across the continent, actually didn't understand his own body.

In the next moment, he habitually looked at his son, Little San. Instantly, a flood of questions that he had once taken for granted surfaced in his mind.

"Where did Little San's many powerful and mysterious Spirit Abilities... come from?"

"At birth... he had pure and ignorant eyes. After escaping the encirclement, his eyes were weak and guarded, not like a child's."

"Since then, Little San has never cried, and he is excessively sensible..."

"He's not like a child!"

At this moment, the mist shrouding his mind completely dissipated, and his brain became incredibly clear.

Tang Hao clenched his fists in disbelief, looking back over these twelve years with immense shock.

"Ah Yin, as long as there is a sliver of hope, I will save you, but..."

"...How did I become like this?"

"Ah Yin, I have failed you!"

"Boom!"

The Aura on Tang Hao's body surged, his messy hair moving without any wind, as a terrifyingly powerful pressure erupted.

"So strong!"

The woman pulled back her hood, revealing her true face—a fair and supple countenance.

Behind her, Miss followed closely, pulling back his hood. Looking at his features, it was none other than the Chrysanthemum Douluo Yue Guan.

At this moment, a flash of shock passed through his eyes, and he said with a serious expression.

"Your Eminence, this Aura... it's Tang Hao. Yes, it's definitely Tang Hao! Back then, I followed the late—"

The woman's expression turned cold.

"Hmm?!!!"

Chrysanthemum Douluo felt a chill in his heart as he realized he had touched upon the taboo of the woman—who was the Spirit Hall Supreme Pontiff Bibi Dong. He immediately fell silent as a cicada in winter.

Bibi Dong looked toward the center of the Aura and murmured with a complex tone.

"Tang Hao..."

In fact, she had to thank Tang Hao. If he hadn't severely injured Qian Xunji, she truly wouldn't have been able to succeed in her sneak attack and exact her revenge.

Because of this gratitude, after she succeeded as the Supreme Pontiff, she did not raise the banner of avenging the previous Supreme Pontiff, nor did she care about the bounty on Tang Hao.

However, as a fellow Genius, she wanted to test the mettle of this man, known as the youngest Titled Douluo on the continent in a hundred years.

After some thought, she finally let go.

"It is not yet time."

"Besides, Tang Hao is not my enemy. They... are!"

"I cannot expose myself just yet."

Bibi Dong reached out, and a spider leg extended from her back, piercing straight into the poisonous fog.

In the next moment, the spider leg snapped.

The smile vanished from Bibi Dong's face, and she frowned.

"What overbearing poison! Even my Spider Queen cannot withstand it!"

If she hadn't severed the leg to save herself, even her Spirit might have been poisoned.

"What on earth... is going on down there?"

On the other side.

After investigating for a while, Tang San's expression also became extremely serious.

"Teacher, this poison... is too overbearing. It's a mixture of countless types of poisons and is incurable—at least, it cannot be countered with our current resources!"

Yu Xiaogang was not disappointed. After all, it was just an unknown land, and such places were not uncommon on the Douluo Continent.

"Then we can't go in?"

Tang San shook his head and said.

"Not necessarily. As long as one's Rank is high enough, they can protect themselves with spirit power and walk right in."

At this moment, everyone's eyes converged on Flender; he had the highest cultivation level present.

Flender felt a bit guilty and gave a dry cough.

"Ahem, well... Wuji is known as the Immovable King of Brightness; he should be able to withstand it."

Deflecting the trouble, Zhao Wuji was caught in the crossfire.

Zhao Wuji was much more straightforward and said honestly.

"No, I tried just now, and I can't block it either."

Hearing this, Yu Xiaogang made the final decision.

"In that case, let's leave this place. After all, hunting for spirit rings is our top priority."

"Alright!"Chapter 68: The Deities Vanish

Chapter 68: 68. The Deities Vanish

"Hmm, the toxicity... is weakening!"

Bibi Dong, like Tang San, possessed twin spirits. However, unlike Tang San, both of her Spirits were spiders: one was the Death Spider Emperor, and the other was the Soul Eating Spider Emperor.

They were the emperors of the Devil Spider Clan, possessing extremely high quality.

In truth, if not for Tang San having too many cheats and many rule-breaking gods helping him, he would never have been a match for Bibi Dong in the future.

Returning to the topic of Spirits, the Death Spider Emperor, as a top-tier Beast Spirit, possessed highly toxic properties and was extremely sensitive to toxins.

Bibi Dong carefully sensed the changes in the poison mist and analyzed,

"Based on the current rate of decay, in about a month, Titled Douluo will be able to safely enter the mist."

After saying this, Bibi Dong turned and left without any hesitation.

Chrysanthemum Douluo quickly followed, though he looked back from time to time, his eyes filled with lingering affection.

"Little darlings, I'll see you in a month!"

As for the other figure, they remained silent the entire time, like a mute shadow... In fact, after that figure in the endless Void Realm disappeared, Tang Hao wasn't the only one on the Douluo Continent who underwent a change.

Many humans across the continent, and even Spirit Beasts, experienced subtle shifts in their mindsets.

Along with this, the entire Douluo plane began to feel different.

On Sea God Island, standing before the massive Sea God statue, was a stunning woman whose appearance and aura were on par with Bibi Dong's.

Graceful and elegant, she possessed an aura as vast as the sea, embodying the peak of inclusivity and tolerance.

She was the High Priestess of the Sea God, Bo Saixi, a level ninety-nine Limit Douluo known as invincible at sea—the spokesperson for the Sea God walking the mortal world.

Bo Saixi held the High Priestess Scepter, looking at the dim and lusterless statue with deep blue eyes full of uncertainty as she murmured,

"Sea God, have you... abandoned your people?"

As the High Priestess of the Sea God, she was the person closest to the Sea God and one of those closest to the God Realm.

But just now, she had unexpectedly lost contact with the Sea God, a situation that had never occurred before.

At the same time, her body also underwent an extraordinary change... and she was not alone.

Spirit Hall, Angel Temple.

The Angel Statue, which in the past had illuminated all of Spirit City with divine light, no longer emitted any holy radiance.

This eerie change caused a trace of panic to appear on the face of the usually overbearing Qian Daoliu.

"The God Position Legacy... has been severed!"

The Qian family's ability to rule Spirit Hall depended not only on their divine-level Spirit, the Seraphim, but most importantly on the Angel God's God Position Legacy.

Even if one couldn't become a god, they could rely on the God Trials to guarantee a foundation, creating a Limit Douluo!

This was the very foundation of the Qian family, yet now... Suddenly, a look of joy flickered across his face as he muttered to himself,

"I see it... The Chasm!"

Meanwhile, in Slaughter City, the aura of blood, chaos, and killing suddenly cleared, leaving behind only a nauseating stench.

Everyone regained their clarity, but then things became even more chaotic, and the slaughter grew even more tragic!

The Slaughter King, clutching a long sword, looked around blankly before suddenly rushing out of Slaughter City, his destination unknown.

Not long after, Bibi Dong returned to the secret chamber of the Supreme Pontiff Palace and was shocked to find... the Legacy site of the Rakshasa God... was empty!

The Legacy space was completely clean; not a single trace of divine force remained.

*Click!*

The sound came from within her body. Bibi Dong gripped the Supreme Pontiff Scepter tightly, only to find that the immense spirit power within her had reached a new level.

"I can utilize my full spirit power now, but... the God Position is gone!"

No matter how good Bibi Dong was at enduring, she broke down at this moment, her eyes vacant and her hands at a loss.

But in the next instant, she pulled herself together once more.

"What does a mere God Position matter? My achievements today, Bibi Dong's achievements, were never brought about solely by a Rakshasa God Position!"

"If the Rakshasa God won't work, I'll just find another God Position!"

"I need to go to the Angel Temple and see. If..."

Thinking of a certain possibility, a happy smile appeared on Bibi Dong's beautiful face.

"If it's truly as I suspect, things are about to get interesting!"

"Though, I really don't want to see that old fossil of the Qian family!"

At this very moment, across the entire Douluo plane, deities had vanished!

Everything would now develop in an unknown direction, and Zhou Ting... still didn't know!

In the garden, Zhou Ting asked with a shocked expression,

"What did you say? Immortal Herbs?"

Ning Rongrong thought Zhou Ting didn't understand the importance of Immortal Herbs, so she explained,

"I was like you at first, not knowing what Immortal Herbs were. It was only after flipping through the Sect's ancient records that I discovered... Immortal Herbs are truly miraculous."

Ning Rongrong said excitedly,

"Do you know? There are many types of Immortal Herbs. Some can increase cultivation, some can create special Physiques and talents, and some can even strengthen a Spirit..."

Ning Rongrong grew more and more excited as she spoke.

"It's said that many Immortal Herbs have appeared in the Star Dou Great Forest, and there are definitely some that can strengthen Spirits. When the time comes, our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda can return to its origin and manifest the Nine Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda of our First Ancestor!"

"Then, I'll be able to break through the level eighty bottleneck and even cultivate to become a Titled Douluo!"

Zhu Zhuqing was also incredibly excited after hearing this; wasn't this exactly the Opportunity she needed to become stronger?

Only Zhou Ting had a strange look on his face.

"This isn't right!"

He had heard Ning Rongrong say earlier that the Immortal Herbs in the Deep Pit Forest had suddenly appeared over the last few days, and some experienced people had verified and revealed that there were many varieties inside.

This... the timing matched, the quantity of Immortal Herbs matched, and even the surrounding poison mist matched.

Zhou Ting was 99.99% certain that this treasure site was the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well!

But wasn't this supposed to be the exclusive Opportunity for the protagonist, Tang San?

Previously, Zhou Ting had wanted to intercept it early, but he had only managed to scavenge some scraps.

Now, it had become common knowledge. How could it still be called the protagonist's exclusive find?

"Hehe, I didn't get it, but he can't monopolize it either. The world truly works in mysterious ways."

Zhou Ting pulled back the smile from the corners of his mouth and asked Ning Rongrong,

"Rongrong, how did you all find out about this news?"

Ning Rongrong's eyes darted around, flickering with uncertainty.

"Well, that... anyway, the news is definitely true!"

Zhou Ting didn't press further, only asking,

"How do you plan to get in?"

Ning Rongrong breathed a sigh of relief and said casually,

"Grandpa Sword and Grandpa Bone are both Titled Douluo. With my father's support, they can lead a group of people inside."

Zhu Zhuqing longed to become stronger so much that she also wanted to go in search of Immortal Herbs, but thinking of her status, she hesitated to speak.

Zhou Ting noticed this, gave her a reassuring look, and continued questioning Ning Rongrong,

"This news... I'm afraid the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School isn't the only one who knows?"

Ning Rongrong nodded with a solemn expression.

"The news originally leaked out from Spirit Hall. The Seven Great Sects and the Two Great Empires likely all know by now."

"Of course, the news is definitely true, because we've all sent people to verify it."

Zhou Ting muttered to himself,

"It seems... the Star Dou Great Forest is about to get very lively!"Chapter 69: 69. I messed up!

Chapter 69: 69. I was careless!

"School Master Ning..."

Looking at the formal and polite Zhou Ting, Ning Fengzhi reminded him with a look of reproach.

"Call me Uncle!"

Zhou Ting, feeling helpless, had no choice but to change his address.

"Uncle Ning, I have a favor to ask of you."

Ning Fengzhi said with a faint smile.

"You want to go to the Star Dou Great Forest with me, don't you?"

Zhou Ting wasn't surprised; he had long known that his thoughts couldn't be hidden from these old foxes.

So, he simply nodded and admitted it frankly.

"Yes, Uncle Ning. Both Zhuqing and I want to go and see for ourselves."

"Alright, I agree. When the time comes, we will enter the Immortal Herb Garden together!"

Ning Fengzhi agreed so readily that Zhou Ting, who had been prepared to pay a heavy price, felt quite... unaccustomed to it.

In any case, even after returning to the academy, he still couldn't figure out why Ning Fengzhi had agreed so easily.

Sword Dao Chen Xin didn't understand either.

"Feng Zhi, even with the three of us working together, we can't bring many people. Why are you so..."

Ning Fengzhi replied cheerfully.

"Uncle Jian, you're asking why I agreed to him so easily without making any demands, right?"

That was exactly what Chen Xin meant. Ning Fengzhi's behavior was seriously inconsistent with his usual shrewdness!

Ning Fengzhi said meaningfully.

"Uncle Jian, don't you think this kid's Nine-Layer Black Pagoda Martial Soul... is a great match for our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School?"

Thinking of a certain possibility, Chen Xin glared with wide eyes and objected angrily.

"No, I don't agree. We absolutely cannot let that playboy brat benefit!"

As expected... the bond across generations is truly strong!

Ning Fengzhi was greatly embarrassed, his mouth twitching as he said helplessly.

"Even if it doesn't work out, he is still a Genius with a boundless future. It's good to invest early and build a good relationship."

Chen Xin certainly agreed with that point.

After all, Zhou Ting... is an army of one.

This is just for now. If he truly Cultivates to the Titled Douluo level...

He couldn't even imagine how densely packed and overwhelming it would be!

Perhaps Zhou Ting alone could defeat an entire nation!

If he were to cooperate with the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School, it would be like adding wings to a tiger, enough to take the school to the next level.

Of course, even so, Chen Xin did not agree with Ning Fengzhi's idea.

Moreover, he was confident that he could defeat Zhou Ting.

After all, Zhou Ting's Nine-Layer Black Pagoda Martial Soul didn't provide much of a boost to his own body.

And no matter how many minions he summoned, they couldn't block the attack of the Seven Kill Sword!

After all, the Seven Kill Sword is a Tool Spirit that can stand alongside the Clear Sky Hammer as the world's number one attack... "Hey, you, stop right there!"

At the entrance of Heaven Dou Royal Academy, Zhou Ting walked forward with his head down, deep in thought and oblivious to his surroundings.

*Step!*

The next moment, a shadow appeared before his eyes.

He looked up blankly and saw an unexpected face. Zhou Ting was startled, but he didn't show it at all.

He even had the leisure to glance around.

Then, he saw two acquaintances, two girls with mischievous looks: Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing.

Zhou Ting gave them a look: Come over here!

The two sat on a bench and shook their heads at the same time in perfect synchronization. They even... pulled out melon seeds!

Zhou Ting, feeling helpless, turned to look at the girl glaring at him and laughed awkwardly.

"Aha, is there something you need, Senior?"

This girl was an acquaintance of Zhou Ting's; the two had even slept together before... Dugu Yan looked at the feigning Zhou Ting and spoke through gritted teeth.

"Humph, are you saying you don't know me?"

Zhou Ting's eyes were clear and vacant as he said in confusion.

"Well, I only recently enrolled, so I really don't know your name, Senior!"

Dugu Yan was about to explode with rage and sneered.

"Is that so? It seems I'll have to get my grandfather over here to help you remember!"

How unscrupulous! A conflict between kids, and she actually wants to call her parents!

At the same time, Zhou Ting was filled with disbelief: Did she recognize him?

Impossible!

Of course, he continued to play dumb on the surface.

"Senior, the more you talk, the more confused I get. I don't know your grandfather either!"

This infuriating manner... was exactly the same!

Dugu Yan became even more certain in her heart and laughed in anger.

"Hehe! You little thief really won't shed a tear until you see the coffin!"

She really recognized him!

Zhou Ting didn't understand. He had clearly been wearing a mask and hadn't used any Spirit Abilities lately, so how did Dugu Yan recognize him?

Seeing Zhou Ting fall silent, Dugu Yan said triumphantly.

"What... not pretending anymore?"

Seeing that he couldn't keep up the act, Zhou Ting asked with a bitter smile.

"How did you recognize me?"

Dugu Yan raised her pale face, becoming even more smug.

"In the eyes of a Jade Phosphor Serpent, everyone's temperature is different!"

Damn, I was careless!

I forgot about a snake's infrared perception!

Zhou Ting's face was full of regret!

Dugu Yan grabbed Zhou Ting's collar and said with a fierce look but a trembling heart.

"Speak! Why has my family's Medicinal Garden disappeared?"

How could anyone move such a large Medicinal Garden in just a few hours, especially that unique Spring of Ice and Fire?

It was simply not something humanly possible.

Moreover, that night... although she had fallen unconscious, she could still vaguely feel someone lying down beside her for a very long time, and even... Thinking of this, her face turned slightly red.

Of course, Zhou Ting thought... she was just angry.

On the other side, the two best friends who were excitedly watching the drama and eating melon seeds saw that a fight was about to break out and quickly ran over, grabbing Dugu Yan from both sides.

"Hey, big sister, let's talk this out... This guy might be a bit of a jerk, but his crime doesn't deserve death!"

Hearing Ning Rongrong's defense, Zhou Ting's face turned completely dark!

If it weren't for Ning Fengzhi's request, he wouldn't have gone to the trouble of provoking Ning Rongrong.

Not only did he get no thanks, but he would also frequently sense two faint traces of Killing Intent swirling around him. It was terrifying!

"Come on, big sister, let's go sit over there and chat!"

Ning Rongrong finally managed to calm Dugu Yan down, and then the four of them found a quiet spot to sit.

"Big sister, who are you? And what exactly did he do?"

"My name is Dugu Yan!"

"Ning Rongrong!"

"Zhu Zhuqing!"

Then, the three girls stared at Zhou Ting in unison, their meaning self-evident.

Zhou Ting said weakly.

"Zhou Ting."

"Humph!"

Dugu Yan said huffily.

"A week ago, this loathsome fellow broke into my family's Medicinal Garden..."

Zhou Ting muttered unconvinced.

"It wasn't really breaking in. Your family doesn't have a property deed or a land title..."

Dugu Yan's eyes spat fire!

"Hmm?!"

Zhou Ting immediately shut up.

Dugu Yan continued her accusation.

"This villain even knocked me unconscious..."

Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing's expressions changed instantly, their eyes stabbing at Zhou Ting like knives.

Truly... looking at a scumbag!

How could Zhou Ting endure such slander? He quickly defended himself.

"I didn't do anything bad, I swear!"

He indeed hadn't done anything bad because... there wasn't enough time!

He was just about to pull a few weeds when he was knocked unconscious!Chapter 70: 70. Talking It Out

Chapter 70: 70. Talking It Out

Zhou Ting's confident and solemn expression clearly indicated he wasn't lying.

Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing felt inexplicably relieved, and they couldn't help but look toward the indignant Dugu Yan.

Seeing Zhou Ting refuse to admit it, Dugu Yan cursed angrily.

"You little thief, you dare to do it but don't dare to own up to it!"

Thief!!

Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing looked at each other, but they also understood the implication in her words.

It was confirmed; the bad thing Zhou Ting did was different from what they had just understood.

Smiles unconsciously appeared on both of their faces.

Ning Rongrong glared at Zhou Ting again and comforted Dugu Yan.

"Sister Yan, don't worry, take your time. We will definitely uphold justice and help the side of reason, not just our friend!"

Ning Rongrong's words were effective, and Dugu Yan's expression finally softened slightly as she continued her story.

"When I woke up the next day, I found that my family's herb garden was gone, and even the spring eye in the garden had vanished!"

Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing looked at Zhou Ting in disbelief, making him feel even more uncomfortable.

Although he had intended to do it, he hadn't actually succeeded!

He was really, really... wrongly accused!

Feeling uncomfortable under the gaze of the three women, Zhou Ting defended himself guiltily.

"Ahem, if I say this has nothing to do with me, would you believe it?"

The three girls rolled their eyes in unison.

Never mind Dugu Yan; even Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing didn't believe him!

Ning Rongrong even smiled mischievously.

"Little Zhou, why don't you just confess!"

Zhu Zhuqing was also amused, hearing her good friend imitate her father's way of speaking.

Zhou Ting didn't have time to deal with her and said helplessly.

"Although I didn't touch your herb garden..."

Before Dugu Yan could interrupt, he continued.

"However, I do know where your herb garden is."

What kind of logic was this?

Dugu Yan was a bit dazed, but that didn't stop her from being skeptical.

"Fine, you're still being stubborn!"

Zhou Ting held out his hands, trying to suppress Dugu Yan's anger, while frantically winking at Zhu Zhuqing to help comfort her.

As for Ning Rongrong, he usually offended her so much that it was already good enough that she wasn't gloating over his misfortune.

Zhu Zhuqing took hold of Dugu Yan and said.

"Sister Yan, why don't we listen to his explanation? If there's a problem, we can beat him up together!"

Zhou Ting's mouth twitched: What the hell, where did my lovely Big Kitty go? How did she become just like the Little Witch?

Is this what they call 'one takes on the color of one's company'!

Seeing Zhou Ting silent, Ning Rongrong slapped his arm hard and urged him irritably.

"Don't just stand there, speak up."

Zhou Ting snapped out of it and said gloomily.

"That night, after knocking you out, I went to the spring to pick some herbs. Who knew that as soon as I touched them, the entire mountain began to vibrate? I was even knocked unconscious by the vibrations very quickly..."

Dugu Yan was inclined not to believe him, but as she thought back carefully, she did have a vague memory of feeling a vibration.

"When I woke up..."

He instinctively glanced at Dugu Yan. Their eyes met, and both looked a bit unnatural, shifting their gazes away at the same time.

"Ahem, when I woke up, the poison mist outside the herb garden was gone, the herbs were gone, and the spring eye had disappeared..."

"That's impossible!"

This explanation was simply too bizarre; even a Titled Douluo might not be able to pull it off!

Zhu Zhuqing couldn't help but glare at Zhou Ting as well, asking.

"Then how can you say... you know where the herb garden went?"

Zhou Ting looked at Ning Rongrong and said.

"It was you who told me the whereabouts of the herb garden."

"Me!"

Ning Rongrong was confused at first, then became filled with suspicion and uncertainty.

Zhou Ting didn't intend to keep them in suspense and asked Dugu Yan with certainty.

"The environment of that herb garden should have been naturally formed, right?"

Dugu Yan nodded.

"And most of the herbs weren't planted by your grandfather, but were already there?"

"Correct!"

Zhou Ting's gaze toward Dugu Yan suddenly became incredibly pitying, and he commented ruthlessly.

"Actually... your and your grandfather's judgment is just too poor!"

Dugu Yan felt her fists itching; she wanted to hit someone!

Ning Rongrong did it for her, giving Zhou Ting a "vicious" punch and scolding him.

"Speak properly!"

Zhou Ting grimaced and said with a helpless look.

"The herbs in that garden weren't ordinary; most of them were Immortal Herbs!"

Hearing the words 'Immortal Herb', Ning Rongrong reacted instantly and looked at Zhou Ting in shock.

"What? You said Immortal Herbs?"

"You mean to say... that sinkhole Immortal Herb Garden that suddenly appeared in the Star Dou Great Forest was originally Sister Yan's herb garden!"

A student worth teaching!

Zhou Ting really wanted to pat Ning Rongrong's little head as a sign of affirmation and encouragement.

Of course, he didn't actually do it.

After all, who knew if there were two old men nearby who doted on their granddaughters.

"Indeed. The timing matches, the vast number of Immortal Herbs matches, and even the surrounding poison mist matches. It's just that after the herb garden reached the Star Dou Great Forest, it must have absorbed other toxins, and its toxicity was enhanced!"

"So that's how it is!"

"This is just too incredible."

Seeing the other three chatting excitedly, Dugu Yan felt... discriminated against.

Discriminated against for her ignorance!

She suddenly felt inferior; after all, she didn't even know what an Immortal Herb was!

"What are these Immortal Herbs you're talking about?"

Ning Rongrong quickly repeated what she had said before.

Dugu Yan listened, dumbfounded. She looked at Zhou Ting in disbelief and asked somewhat helplessly.

"So, my grandfather and I were sitting on a mountain of treasure without even knowing it!"

"That's why I said you two have poor judgment!"

Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing looked at the grieving Dugu Yan and felt pity.

At the same time, they glared at Zhou Ting.

Zhou Ting backed down.

"Fine, fine, fine, I won't say any more."

Ning Rongrong suddenly noticed a key point and looked at Zhou Ting suspiciously.

"So... you knew about Immortal Herbs all along!"

"Yeah!"

Ning Rongrong thought back to her previous showing off and suddenly felt a sense of... shame. She was mortified and questioned him crossly.

"Then why did you just watch me say so much!"

Zhou Ting said with a chuckle.

"Didn't Zhuqing not know? Since you could explain it, it saved me the effort."

Ning Rongrong was speechless.

Zhu Zhuqing covered her mouth and smiled, looking exceptionally radiant.

Zhou Ting looked at her with burning eyes, making the young girl very embarrassed. She immediately straightened her face and went to comfort the regretful Dugu Yan.

Ning Rongrong suppressed the anger in her chest and asked.

"How do you know about Immortal Herbs? Even my father and the others only found information from the dusty ancient records in the Sect."

Zhou Ting said nonchalantly.

"I accidentally found it in a cave during my five years of travel. Oh, that's not important..."

This question couldn't be scrutinized, so he quickly changed the subject.

"What's important is that there really is an Immortal Herb you urgently need!"

Ning Rongrong indeed fell for it, saying with a mix of surprise and joy.

"You mean?"

"At that time, I saw a qiluo tulip. Consuming this flower allows one to absorb the essence of heaven and earth and the radiance of the sun and moon. It belongs to the same treasure category as your Spirit, complementing it perfectly. There is a very high probability it can make up for the flaws in your Spirit."

Ning Rongrong was overjoyed and immediately wanted to find her father to tell him the good news.

Suddenly, she stopped and asked in a serious, low voice.

"If... if you succeed..."

Zhou Ting knew what she wanted to ask and said very straightforwardly.

"The qiluo tulip will definitely be given to you!"

Ning Rongrong's face flushed, and her eyes even showed a hint of shyness... the atmosphere gradually became ambiguous!

As it happened, the tactless Zhou fellow thought she didn't believe him and added carelessly.

"The amount of Immortal Herbs a person can withstand is limited; eating too many is just a waste..."

Hearing this... Ning Rongrong felt... her chest hurt, as if her 'flat chest' was about to go bankrupt.

"Hmph!"

With a "thud" of a kick, Zhou Ting was left dazed.