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#161
Tang San was attacked
Chapter 161 Tang San is Attacked
Along the winding mountain roads, the Tiandou Empire's racing convoy kicked up clouds of dust.
With less than ten days' journey to Wuhun City, a tense atmosphere permeated the carriages of all the major academies.
Soul Masters seized the last moments to cultivate, especially those students stuck at level 39, who almost neglected sleep and meals to break through the bottleneck of level 40.
"Have you heard? Huo Lie from Blazing Fire Academy has already broken through to level 40," a student said in a low voice.
"The same goes for Fengling from Shenfeng Academy. I heard she just came back from hunting spirit rings yesterday," another person chimed in.
"This is going to be a good show in the finals," the crowd murmured.
Inside the carriage at Shrek Academy, Xiao Wu suddenly opened her eyes, a glint of light flashing in her pink pupils.
She turned to Tang San, who was meditating, her voice brimming with undisguised excitement: "Brother, my soul power has broken through to level 40."
Tang San slowly opened his eyes, his brows furrowing slightly: "Don't startle others. Stay focused when you're cultivating."
But seeing Xiaowu's expectant eyes, he still nodded reluctantly: "Hmm, not bad."
Xiao Wu noticed Tang San's coldness and pressed him for an answer: "Brother doesn't seem very happy? I worked really hard to break through."
She looked directly into Tang San's eyes. "You've always seemed preoccupied lately."
Tang San's expression instantly darkened: "You don't understand."
He clenched his fist. "That Chu Xinghe, he's clearly just a commoner, so why..."
"Brother," Xiao Wu interrupted him, her voice firm, "Once I obtain my fourth spirit ring, I will definitely be able to help. No matter how strong Chu Xinghe is, he can't defeat the two of us working together."
Tang San turned his head sharply, a ruthless glint in his eyes: "No need!"
He took a deep breath and forced himself to calm down. "I'll handle my own problems."
Xiao Wu was stunned by this sudden outburst of anger. She remained silent for a moment before speaking: "I just wanted to help. If you don't need it, then forget it."
She turned her head and looked out the window.
Silence fell over the carriage, with only the sound of wheels rolling over the road.
Tang San gazed at the beautiful scenery rushing past the window, but felt unusually annoyed.
The work-study student he once looked down on at Notting College has now become a thorn in his side.
The Royal Knights marched through the canyon, the rhythmic sound of their horses' hooves echoing through the valley.
Suddenly, a sharp whistle pierced the sky, and more than a thousand men in black rushed out from the hills on both sides, surging towards the convoy like a tide.
"Enemy attack!"
The commander of the Royal Knights shouted sternly, but it was too late.
The men in black moved swiftly, breaching the outer defenses in the blink of an eye and heading straight for the location of the teachers and students of the fifteen academies. The knights hastily returned to defend, but were already surrounded and cut off.
Faculty and students from various colleges reacted quickly, and one after another, soul rings lit up.
Fire Dance from Blazing Academy was the first to leap out of the carriage, flames erupting around her: "Blazing Academy, follow me!"
Feng Xiaotian of Shenfeng Academy spread his wings, drawing an arc in the air: "Cover the left and right wings!"
The young Soul Masters were full of fighting spirit and unleashed their Soul Skills to fight the enemy.
However, they soon realized that something was wrong; these men in black were no ordinary bandits.
The men in black worked in groups of three or four, coordinating perfectly to surround and attack lone Soul Masters.
Their attacks were concise, efficient, and deadly.
Even more shockingly, at least thirty of the men in black displayed strength above level 50, specifically intercepting the powerful soul skills of various academies.
Ordinary soul skills had limited effect on the man in black, who relied on his astonishing speed and tacit teamwork to keep maneuvering around him.
On average, each academy faces the suppression of two high-level Soul Masters, greatly increasing the pressure.
At Shrek Academy, just as Tang San's Blue Silver Cage trapped an enemy, two Soul King-level men in black attacked him.
"Who exactly are these people?" Dai Mubai punched away the enemy in front of him, cold sweat beading on his forehead.
Although Xiao Wu's teleportation is agile, it is still insufficient under dense attacks.
The entire battlefield descended into chaos, and the once confident young Soul Masters realized that they were not facing ordinary bandits.
Inside the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School's carriage, Ning Fengzhi was resting with his eyes closed.
Suddenly, Sword Douluo Chen Xin opened his eyes, his body surging with sword energy: "Sect Master, there is a fluctuation of soul power at the Title Douluo level ahead. The target seems to be Shrek Academy."
Ning Fengzhi slowly opened his eyes, his fingers lightly tapping the armrest of his seat: "It seems someone is going to make a move on that Tang San."
Chen Xin lifted the carriage curtain, and a violent storm of soul power was already raging around the Shrek Academy carriage in the distance.
"Should we lend a hand?" Chen Xin gripped the Seven Kill Sword tightly, his fighting spirit palpable.
Ning Fengzhi gently shook his head: "There's no need to take action."
"Why?" Chen Xin frowned and pressed on, "That kid is, after all, a member of the Haotian Sect."
A glint of light flashed in Ning Fengzhi's eyes as he held up three fingers: "There are three reasons. First, Tang San and Chu Xinghe have a grudge, so we don't need to antagonize the Heaven Dou Royal Academy for his sake. Second, this is a good opportunity to see if the Clear Sky Sect is really protecting Tang San in secret."
He lowered his voice, "Third, now is not the time to confront the Spirit Hall head-on."
Chen Xin nodded thoughtfully: "What the sect leader means is that this attack is very likely related to the Spirit Hall."
"That's right." Ning Fengzhi closed his eyes again. "Pass down the order: the entire Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School is on alert, but do not act rashly."
Chen Xin sheathed his sword, but his gaze remained fixed on the distant battlefield.
On the Shrek Academy side, Tang San was being forced to retreat by a dark figure. The four spirit rings on his Clear Sky Hammer were flashing wildly, but he still couldn't defend himself.
At this critical moment, Flander and Liu Erlong simultaneously unleashed astonishing fluctuations of soul power.
Flander spread his cat-owl wings, and his seventh spirit ring suddenly lit up: "True Spirit Body!"
Liu Erlong's body was engulfed in blazing dragon flames as she prepared to unleash her Martial Soul True Form to fight back.
However, before they could fully unleash their power, two suffocating pressures of soul force suddenly descended.
Two figures, one in white and one in black, appeared like ghosts in the center of the battlefield. The white-clad figure held a golden, rare chrysanthemum, while the black-clad figure was surrounded by eerie black mist. The nine spirit rings beneath their feet shone with a chilling light.
"A mere Soul Saint dares to act so presumptuously?" The man in white sneered, and the golden chrysanthemum in his hand bloomed with dazzling light.
His Martial Soul True Form instantly unfolded, and countless golden petals transformed into a cage, firmly imprisoning Flander and Liu Erlong.
"We're from Black Wind Mountain, so if you know what's good for you, don't meddle!" the man in black shouted in a hoarse voice.
"Bullshit!" Zhao Wuji roared, veins bulging on his forehead. "Where did these bandits come from who have the cultivation of a Title Douluo?! And there are two of them at once!"
A fierce glint flashed in Tang San's eyes, and the four black spirit rings on the Clear Sky Hammer lit up simultaneously, continuously pouring spirit power into the Clear Sky Hammer: "Chaotic Cloak Hammer Technique!"
He swung his giant hammer in an attempt to break free, but the man in white casually waved his hand, and several golden petals bound him like chains.
The difference in soul power was too great. Tang San's arms were bleeding from the flower petals, but he was still unable to break free.
"Third Brother!" Xiao Wu exclaimed, activating her teleportation skill to try and rescue him.
But the figure in black appeared like a ghost, and countless shadows rose from the ground, firmly fixing Xiao Wu in place.
She struggled desperately, but couldn't move even a finger.
Dai Mubai roared and tried to rush forward, but Ma Hongjun's phoenix flames surged out. However, before he could get close, he was forced to retreat repeatedly by the pressure of the Title Douluo's soul power.
Oscar desperately tried to make sausages, but was forced to his knees by an invisible pressure.
"Who exactly are you people?!" Yu Xiaogang demanded angrily, his eyes bloodshot.
He clenched his fists, but was unable to move forward due to his own weak strength.
The man in white ignored them, simply adjusting his sleeves with elegance and glancing contemptuously at the crowd: "We're taking this kid with us."
His gaze finally fell on Tang San, and the cage formed by the golden petals began to slowly shrink.
The man in black smiled sinisterly, and the black mist around him grew even thicker, enveloping the entire battlefield in an eerie atmosphere.
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#162
Tang Hao's Ring Explosion
Chapter 162 Tang Hao Detonates the Ring
Just as Chrysanthemum Douluo's golden petals were about to completely envelop Tang San, a deafening roar suddenly resounded throughout the world.
A massive, jet-black hammer, engraved with blood-red patterns, descended from the sky, crashing into the ground with earth-shattering force.
The violent shockwave instantly swept across an area of hundreds of meters, tearing the hard rocky ground apart like paper, and sending countless fragments of rock flying.
Caught off guard, Chrysanthemum Douluo and Ghost Douluo were forced to retreat several steps, and the meticulously woven golden petal cage crumbled under this attack.
Amidst the billowing smoke and dust, a tall figure slowly walked towards them.
He wore a tattered gray cloak, and every step he took seemed to make the earth tremble.
As the smoke and dust cleared up, everyone was finally able to see the faces of the newcomers.
It was a weathered yet resolute face, with a pair of sharp, eagle-like eyes coldly watching the two titled Douluo amidst a thick beard.
"Spirit Hall, you have crossed the line." Tang Hao's voice was deep and powerful, like muffled thunder exploding in everyone's hearts.
With a wave of his hand, the enormous Clear Sky Hammer flew back into his grasp, and nine spirit rings lit up one after another beneath his feet: yellow, yellow, purple, purple, black, black, black, black, and finally a breathtakingly bright red 100,000-year spirit ring.
The crimson light shone on everyone's face, giving everyone present an unprecedented sense of oppression.
Chrysanthemum Douluo's pupils suddenly contracted to the size of pinpoints, and the Qirong Tongtian Chrysanthemum in his hand trembled involuntarily: "Haotian Douluo, you are still alive!"
As an elder of the Spirit Hall, he knew all too well how terrifying the man before him was.
Without any further ado, Tang Hao directly activated his Martial Soul True Form.
The Haotian Hammer swelled in the wind, transforming in the blink of an eye into a terrifying giant soldier tens of meters long, with visible energy storms swirling around its head.
His first spirit ring suddenly shattered, and violent energy poured into the hammer like a flood bursting its banks.
With a deafening roar, Tang Hao swung his hammer for the first time.
This seemingly simple hammer blow contained the power to split mountains and shatter rocks. The air was compressed into visible ripples, and even space itself was slightly distorted wherever it passed.
"Join forces!" Ghost Douluo shouted, his figure instantly transforming into countless black shadows that scattered in all directions.
The dark shadows rose from the ground as if they were alive, trying to entangle Tang Hao's limbs.
However, the shockwave power of the Haotian Hammer is the nemesis of the ghost shadows. Each hammer blow is accompanied by a deafening sonic boom, shattering large areas of the black shadows.
Upon seeing this, Chrysanthemum Douluo immediately activated his soul power, and golden petals shot towards Tang Hao like a rainstorm. However, they all disintegrated the moment they came into contact with the Clear Sky Hammer's force field, turning into specks of golden light and dissipating into the air.
"Fifth spirit ring, explode!"
Tang Hao let out another low shout, and the fifth black spirit ring shattered in response.
The crimson patterns on the Haotian Hammer suddenly shone with a blinding light, and the space around the hammer began to distort and deform.
This sweeping attack, though seemingly slow, contained earth-shattering power. The two titled Douluo hastily set up their defenses, but were still simultaneously knocked back a hundred meters by this attack.
Ghost Douluo's black cloak was torn to shreds by the aftershocks, revealing a face as pale as paper.
The golden chrysanthemum in Chrysanthemum Douluo's hand also showed obvious cracks, and a trace of blood spilled from the corner of his mouth.
An eerie silence fell over the battlefield.
The students of Shrek Academy were so shocked by this earth-shattering battle that they were speechless.
Tang San stared blankly at the tall figure, his eyes filled with disbelief.
Xiao Wu gripped Tang San's arm tightly, her delicate body trembling slightly.
Although Flander and Liu Erlong had escaped their predicament, they were still unable to move due to the residual soul power fluctuations.
Chrysanthemum Douluo's expression was uncertain. He stared intently at the Clear Sky Hammer in Tang Hao's hand, then glanced at the already injured Ghost Douluo.
As an elder of the Spirit Hall, he was all too aware of the consequences of continuing the fight.
Even if the two of them joined forces, their chances of winning against this god of death who had once severely injured the former pope were extremely slim.
"Withdraw!" Chrysanthemum Douluo gritted his teeth and spat out the word, his voice full of resentment.
Almost at the same moment, he and Ghost Douluo transformed into two streaks of light, one golden and one black, and disappeared into the sky in an instant.
It was so fast that even Tang Hao didn't have time to stop it.
Tang Hao did not pursue, but simply stood quietly in place, the Clear Sky Hammer in his hand gradually returning to its normal size.
He slowly put away the Clear Sky Hammer, and the nine soul rings disappeared into his body one by one.
Tang Hao turned to face Tang San and said in a deep voice, "The Spirit Hall has already set its sights on you. Continuing to participate in the competition is too dangerous."
Tang San suddenly raised his head, his eyes filled with unwillingness and stubbornness: "Dad, the finals are just around the corner. We've prepared for so long, we can't just give up like this."
"Survival is more important than the competition." Tang Hao interrupted him, his rough hand pressing heavily on Tang San's shoulder. "Do you think the Spirit Hall will let this go? Since they dared to make a move, they will never back down easily."
Xiao Wu stepped forward quickly, her pink eyes filled with unwavering determination: "Uncle, take me with you! I can't let Third Brother face the danger alone."
Tang Hao's sharp gaze lingered on Xiao Wu for a moment, his brows furrowing slightly as if weighing the pros and cons. Finally, he nodded and said, "Keep up, don't fall behind."
Flander opened his mouth as if to say something, his Adam's apple bobbing up and down a few times, but in the end he just dejectedly pushed up his slipped glasses.
Liu Erlong's clenched fist trembled slightly, his nails digging deep into his palm, but he ultimately did not step forward to stop her.
Everyone could only watch helplessly as Tang Hao grabbed Tang San with one hand and lifted Xiao Wu with the other, the three of them soaring into the air and disappearing into the distant horizon in the blink of an eye.
Yu Xiaogang's face was extremely ugly. He stared intently in the direction the three had left, his voice hoarse and barely audible: "Without Tang San and Xiao Wu, how can we compete in the finals? They are our strongest fighting force."
Dai Mubai slammed his fist into a nearby tree trunk, snapping it in two and sending splinters flying. "Are we going to forfeit? What about all our efforts over the years? Is all the blood and sweat we've poured in just going to go to waste?"
"No!" Liu Erlong shouted sharply, his eyes burning with fury, and dragon flames surging uncontrollably around him. "We have to finish this! Even if only five of us are left, we must stand on the final stage! Shrek Academy's honor cannot be lost like this!"
Ma Hongjun wiped the sweat from his forehead, his voice hesitant: "But with two key players missing, our chances of winning are almost zero. Is it worth fighting like this?"
"Shut up!" Liu Erlong turned around abruptly, her sharp gaze causing Ma Hongjun to involuntarily take a half-step back. "Shrek Academy has no tradition of retreating without a fight! Flander, say something!"
Flander took a deep breath, his eyes behind his glasses flashing with a complex light.
He looked around at everyone, at each face that was filled with anger or dejection, and slowly said, "Erlong is right. We cannot give up. Even if there is only a one in ten thousand chance, we must fight with all our might."
Inside the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School's carriage, Chen Xin slowly lowered the curtain, which he had lifted slightly, his eyes still filled with sword intent.
He turned to look at Ning Fengzhi, who was sitting upright, and said in a deep voice, "Tang Hao's strength is even more terrifying than it was back then. Even from this distance, I could feel the shockwave from that hammer blow just now."
A meaningful smile appeared on Ning Fengzhi's gentle and refined face: "It seems that the Haotian Sect has not completely gone into seclusion. Tang Hao's appearance confirms my guess."
Chen Xin stood with his sword in his arms, a hint of fighting spirit flashing across his cold face: "Tang Hao's exploding ring technique is indeed amazing, but if he were to face the Pope, the outcome would be uncertain."
"Uncle Jian, watch your words," Ning Fengzhi interrupted softly, a glint of shrewdness flashing in his eyes. "Now is not the time for us to take sides. But this competition is getting more and more interesting."
Chen Xin nodded thoughtfully: "Does the Sect Master mean we should continue to observe?"
"That's right." Ning Fengzhi nodded slightly.
He turned his gaze back to the window. In the distance, the Shrek Academy convoy was regrouping, while Tang Hao and his two companions had long since disappeared into the horizon.
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#163
Tang San and Xiao Wu part ways
Chapter 163 Tang San and Xiao Wu Part Ways
Wuhun City, the headquarters of the Heaven Dou Royal Academy.
As soon as Chu Xinghe arrived, Dugu Yan quickly came to greet him: "You've finally arrived. I have some news for you. Shrek Academy was attacked on the way."
"Oh?" Chu Xinghe raised an eyebrow. "Tell me more about it."
Dugu Yan lowered her voice: "It is said that two Title Douluos almost captured Tang San. At the critical moment, Tang Hao appeared and defeated them one against two."
A hint of surprise flashed in Chu Xinghe's eyes: "Tang Hao actually took action personally? It seems that the Spirit Hall is really in a hurry this time."
Standing to the side, Zhu Zhuqing said coldly, "Shrek Academy acts arrogantly and domineeringly, and deserves to be isolated and helpless."
Chu Xinghe fell into deep thought upon hearing this. He recalled his experiences over the years. In the original story, forces such as Dugu Bo and the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School would become Tang San's allies.
But now, because of his intervention, these forces are all on his side.
Tang San lost these external aids and ultimately could only rely on Tang Hao alone, which proves the principle that "those who are righteous will have many helpers, while those who are unrighteous will have few helpers."
Seeing him lost in thought, Dugu Yan couldn't help but tease him, "What's wrong? Are you worried that Tang San will come back to take revenge?"
Chu Xinghe came to his senses and shook his head, saying, "I just feel that the Spirit Hall's actions this time are probably not just aimed at Tang San."
Just then, a dark green figure suddenly appeared in the room.
Dugu Bo stroked his beard and nodded, saying, "What you said is right, kid. The Spirit Hall's attack on Shrek Academy was ostensibly aimed at Tang San, but in reality, it was intended to lure out Tang Hao and test the Clear Sky Sect's bottom line."
Chu Xinghe's expression hardened: "Grandpa means that the Spirit Hall is planning something even bigger?"
Dugu Bo gave him a meaningful look: "Smart. So you all need to be extra careful in the upcoming finals."
...
On the other side, night fell, and the depths of the dense forest were silent.
Tang Hao led Tang San and Xiao Wu to a secluded cave. Inside, a campfire crackled, casting flickering shadows on the three of them.
"Xiao San, there's something you need to know." Tang Hao's deep voice echoed in the cave, his gaze falling on the uneasy Xiao Wu. "She, like your mother, is a 100,000-year-old soul beast that has transformed into a human."
The air inside the cave seemed to freeze at that moment.
Tang San's body stiffened for a moment. He slowly turned his head to look at Xiao Wu and found that she was pursing her lips tightly, and her usually bright eyes were full of anxiety.
Countless details strung together in Tang San's mind: Xiao Wu's familiarity with the Star Dou Great Forest, her special cultivation methods, and those inexplicable intuitions.
Silence spread through the cave.
After a moment, Tang San's eyes hardened again. He reached out and grasped Xiao Wu's slightly trembling hand: "Dad, this won't change anything. I love Xiao Wu as a person, regardless of her identity."
Xiao Wu's eyes instantly welled up with tears, which glistened in the firelight.
She gripped Tang San's hand tightly, her knuckles turning slightly white from the force, but she never let go.
Tang Hao's gaze lingered on their clasped hands for a long time, a complex emotion flashing in his eyes.
He said in a deep voice, "Xiao San, you need to understand that you are not capable of protecting her right now. You know better than anyone how the Spirit Hall operates. If they discover Xiao Wu's identity, the consequences will be unimaginable."
"I can protect her!" Tang San stood up abruptly, his voice filled with an unyielding stubbornness. "I won't let my mother's tragedy repeat itself!"
Tang Hao's eyes suddenly sharpened: "What will you use to protect her?"
He looked directly into Tang San's eyes and said, "You can't even defeat Chu Xinghe, so how can you possibly fight against a Title Douluo from the Spirit Hall?"
These words were like a bucket of cold water poured over Tang San's head.
His shoulders slumped slightly as the scene of his fight with Chu Xinghe uncontrollably surfaced in his mind.
The shock of our first encounter at Notting Academy, the helplessness in the Soul Master Competition—every defeat was still vivid in my mind.
His fists clenched unconsciously, yet he forced himself to relax them.
Xiao Wu gently wrapped her arms around Tang San's arm, her voice soft: "Third Brother, Uncle is right. We are indeed too weak right now."
Her eyes were filled with tears, but she forced a smile. "A temporary separation is for a better reunion."
At dawn, the three said goodbye in a clearing in the woods.
Xiao Wu glanced at Tang San one last time before turning and walking into the mist.
Tang San stood there, watching her figure gradually blur and eventually disappear into the morning mist.
He took a deep breath, turned to look at his father, and the confusion in his eyes was gradually replaced by determination.
"Dad, I want to become stronger." Tang San's voice was calm but resolute, "strong enough to protect everyone I care about."
Tang Hao nodded, placing his rough hand on his son's shoulder: "This road will be very difficult."
"I know," Tang San said, looking in the direction Xiao Wu had left, "but it was worth it."
...
On a mountain path, two figures moved swiftly through the morning mist.
Tang Hao's tall figure led the way, with Tang San close behind. Dew dampened their robes, which shimmered faintly in the morning light.
Suddenly, Tang Hao stopped in his tracks, a violent cough erupting from his chest. He had to grab onto a tree trunk to steady himself.
"Dad, do you want to rest for a bit?" Tang San stepped forward quickly and saw the blood seeping from between his father's fingers.
Tang Hao took a deep breath and waved his hand: "No need, time is of the essence."
His voice was hoarser than usual, a consequence of using the exploding rings repeatedly.
Passing through the dense forest, they arrived at the familiar waterfall behind Holy Soul Village. Rushing water cascaded down a hundred-meter-high cliff, stirring up plumes of white mist at the bottom of the pool.
Without hesitation, Tang Hao channeled his soul power to form a protective shield, carrying Tang San through the water curtain.
The damp air inside the cave hit us.
Tang Hao suddenly stopped, and Tang San saw his father's body stiffen for a moment.
Following his father's gaze, the small mound in the center of the stone chamber, which should have been home to the Blue Silver Emperor, was now just a roughly turned-up pit.
Tang Hao staggered towards the stone wall and skillfully pressed down on the inconspicuous protruding rock.
The hidden compartment opened with a click, but it was empty.
That precious 100,000-year-old soul bone, along with the Blue Silver Emperor's physical body that carried all of Tang Hao's longing, has disappeared without a trace.
"No...this is impossible..." Tang Hao's voice trembled violently.
The next second, a violent burst of soul power erupted from his body, causing the entire cave to tremble.
"Who is it?!"
Tang Hao's roar echoed through the cave, and pebbles fell from the cave ceiling.
Tang San stood there, and after the initial shock, a cold anger rose from the bottom of his heart.
His gaze was fixed on the empty hidden compartment, and his voice was low: "Who stole the soul bone that should have belonged to me?"
The cave was eerily silent for a moment.
Tang Hao slowly turned around, and the father and son's eyes met in the dim light.
For the first time, Tang San saw such complex emotions in his father's eyes: anger, pain, and deep guilt.
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#164
Bibi Dong appears
Chapter 164 Bibi Dong Makes Her Debut
The cave was damp and cold. Tang Hao slowly turned to face Tang San, and the anger in his eyes was gradually replaced by a deep determination.
"There's only one way to make you stronger quickly," Tang Hao said in a deep voice. He gestured for Tang San to sit down, and then sat cross-legged on the damp stone ground himself.
Tang Hao sat cross-legged with his back straight: "In the Douluo Continent, there is a city forgotten by the world, called the City of Slaughter. It is a trial ground left by the Asura God in ancient times."
Tang San's gaze was fixed intently on his father, and his breathing became rapid involuntarily.
"Those who pass the trial in the City of Slaughter will obtain the Domain of the God of Slaughter," Tang Hao continued. "This power is different from the soul skills of ordinary soul masters. It can give the holder an absolute advantage in battle and even allow them to challenge opponents of higher levels."
A burning light ignited in Tang San's eyes as he straightened his back: "If I obtain the God of Slaughter Domain, I can surpass Chu Xinghe and reclaim everything that belongs to me."
Tang Hao nodded slightly: "With your talent and temperament, it is indeed possible. However, the City of Slaughter is fraught with danger, and going there rashly now will only lead to your death."
He stood up and said in a deep voice, "Once your soul power reaches level fifty, I will personally take you to undergo the test."
Tang San also stood up, the confusion in his eyes completely replaced by firm belief.
He looked around the stone chamber where his mother's belongings had once been kept, transforming the pain of loss into motivation to move forward.
"Before that, we need to find a secluded place." Tang Hao strode towards the cave entrance. "You need to cultivate systematically and solidify your foundation. I will teach you the true inheritance of the Haotian Sect so that you can be fully prepared before entering the City of Slaughter."
The father and son left Holy Soul Village along the mountain path. Tang Hao walked in front, his Clear Sky Hammer occasionally drawing heavy trajectories in the air, demonstrating the Clear Sky Sect's secret techniques to Tang San behind him.
"Pay attention, the essence of the Chaotic Cloak Hammer Technique lies in the continuity of force." Tang Hao flicked his wrist, and the hammer drew a perfect arc in the air. "Each hammer strike must carry over the residual force of the previous one. Only by repeating this cycle can the power be increased layer by layer."
Tang San was completely focused on imitating his father's movements, and fine beads of sweat appeared on his forehead.
Suddenly, he stopped practicing, hesitated for a moment, and then asked, "Dad, who do you think stole Mom's soul bone?"
Tang Hao's movements suddenly stopped, and the Clear Sky Hammer slammed heavily into the ground.
He slowly turned around, a cold glint in his eyes: "The Spirit Hall is the prime suspect; they've always coveted 100,000-year-old soul bones... or..."
His voice suddenly turned low, and the second half of his sentence caught in his throat.
Tang San noticed his father's unusual reaction and keenly sensed that the unspoken name was very likely the Clear Sky Sect.
But he didn't ask any further questions; he simply gripped the Haotian Hammer in his hand more tightly.
A cold wind suddenly swept through the woods, swirling up a few withered leaves.
Tang Hao raised the Clear Sky Hammer again, his voice returning to calm: "Keep practicing. When you're strong enough, you'll naturally know who to seek revenge for this debt."
His gaze passed over Tang San and fell upon the faint outline of the mountains in the distance.
...
Wuhun City.
The square in front of the Papal Palace was bustling with noise, as Soul Masters and their families from all over the country crowded the entire square.
The 33 participating teams stood in neat rows, their colorful uniforms standing out brightly in the sunlight.
The air was thick with tension and excitement as everyone held their breath, anticipating the grand finale of the Soul Master Competition, a spectacle that would captivate the entire continent.
Suddenly, the doors of the Papal Palace slowly opened.
The entire venue fell silent instantly, and everyone's eyes were focused on the figure that slowly walked out.
Bibi Dong wore a magnificent purple and gold gown, a jewel-encrusted crown, and held a scepter symbolizing the supreme power of the Spirit Hall. Every step she took exuded an inviolable majesty.
Behind her, Chrysanthemum Douluo Yue Guan and Ghost Douluo Gui Mei followed closely on either side. Wherever the three of them passed, the audience involuntarily made way for them.
"Welcome, Your Holiness the Pope!" A deafening cheer erupted from the crowd.
Some were moved to tears, some knelt on one knee in reverence, and many more gazed at this supreme being of the Soul Master world with faces full of respect.
In the Shrek Academy team, Dai Mubai unconsciously clenched his fists. He recognized the two Title Douluos beside the Pope as the mysterious people who had tried to take Tang San away.
Flander and Yu Xiaogang exchanged a solemn look, but both tacitly chose to remain silent.
Bibi Dong gracefully raised her scepter and gently touched the ground.
In an instant, countless golden points of light burst forth from the top of the scepter, weaving together in the air to form a magnificent pattern.
Her voice wasn't loud, but it carried clearly throughout the entire square: "Welcome everyone to Wuhun City to witness this grand event in the world of Soul Masters."
Bibi Dong, holding a scepter, slowly walked to the high platform in the center of the square.
She looked around, and wherever her gaze fell, the noisy crowd immediately quieted down.
"First of all, on behalf of the Spirit Hall, I welcome the elite teams from the Heaven Dou Empire and the Star Luo Empire." Her voice was gentle yet authoritative, but her gaze inadvertently swept over the Heaven Dou Royal Academy team.
When she saw Chu Xinghe's tall and imposing figure, a hint of admiration flashed in her eyes. This young man's rise in recent years was indeed remarkable.
However, when her gaze fell upon the Shrek Academy team and she saw that familiar figure, her heart couldn't help but flutter slightly.
Yu Xiaogang, the name that once haunted her dreams, now stands before her, a complete stranger.
Bibi Dong suppressed the surging emotions in her heart and continued, "Every Continental Elite Tournament of Advanced Soul Master Academies is the most dazzling event in the Soul Master world. It is always gratifying to see generation after generation of young Soul Masters show their strength and break through their limits here."
Her words were met with enthusiastic applause and cheers from the audience.
"As an encouragement to these young geniuses," Bibi Dong's voice suddenly rose, "the champion of this competition will receive three rare soul bones!"
She waved her hand gently, and three soul bones radiating powerful energy fluctuations appeared out of thin air, hovering in front of her.
The first bone was a crystal-clear head bone, radiating a gentle spiritual energy; the second bone, the right arm bone, had crimson flames dancing on its surface; and the third bone, the left leg bone, was surrounded by a blue whirlwind.
"The skull of spiritual wisdom was taken from the Holy Illusion Demon Ape with 50,000 years of cultivation, and was personally hunted by the previous Pope," Bibi Dong introduced. "The other two soul bones are the right arm of explosive burning flames and the left leg of swift movement."
The entire arena erupted in an uproar. The audience whispered amongst themselves in shock, while the students from each team stared wide-eyed. Such a generous reward was unprecedented in the history of the competition.
Bibi Dong watched the crowd's reactions with satisfaction, then gently waved her hand to retrieve the soul bone: "I hope these rewards will inspire everyone to deliver their best performance in the competition."
She gracefully raised her scepter, and a golden light drew a perfect arc in the air, eventually condensing into a huge screen of light.
"According to the competition rules," Bibi Dong's voice clearly echoed throughout the arena, "besides the Spirit Hall team, the Heaven Dou Royal team, and the Star Luo Royal team, who are seeded and directly advance, the leaders of the remaining thirty teams, please come forward to draw lots."
As Bibi Dong announced the start of the lottery ceremony, the atmosphere in the entire square immediately became tense.
The leaders of each battle team stepped out from their ranks and lined up in neat rows under the guidance of the Spirit Hall attendants.
Chu Xinghe noticed that Yu Xiaogang from Shrek Academy was also standing in the group, his serious face revealing no emotion.
A cardinal walked to the front of the stage carrying an exquisite lottery box.
Bibi Dong continued, "The draw will determine your opponents in the first round, and the winners will advance to the round of 16."
She paused for a moment, her gaze sweeping across the entire venue, "This marks the official start of the competition for this year's finals. I hope everyone will showcase their true strength and style."
The lottery box shimmered in the sunlight, as if it contained endless possibilities.
Team leaders stepped forward one by one, reaching into the box to retrieve the slips of paper that would determine their fate.
The students in the audience held their breath, some nervously rubbing their hands, some praying softly, and others staring intently at their academy's leader.
After the last team leader finished drawing lots, Bibi Dong nodded slightly: "The match list will be announced later on the notice board on the east side of the square. The competition will officially begin at this time tomorrow."
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#165
Bibi Dong's disappointment with Yu Xiaogang
Chapter 165 Bibi Dong's Disappointment with Yu Xiaogang
As night deepened, the outline of Wuhun City appeared particularly solemn under the moonlight.
Inside Shrek Academy's temporary residence, bright lights streamed through the windows, casting dappled shadows on the stone path.
Flander slammed the match list he was holding onto the wooden table, the paper making a crisp sound as it hit the surface.
The room fell silent instantly. Even Ma Hongjun in the corner stopped chewing, his greasy fingers hanging in mid-air.
"We've already encountered Shenfeng Academy in the first round." Flander's voice was hoarse, as if it had been sanded, and his fingers tapped the battle list unconsciously. "Our luck is absolutely terrible. Tang San and Xiao Wu aren't here, and Feng Xiaotian has his own self-created soul skill. Our chances of winning are slim."
Oscar forced a smile: "Maybe they all got food poisoning today? Their legs will be weak during tomorrow's game, giving us an easy win."
He shrugged casually, "Or maybe Feng Xiaotian suddenly has a change of heart and decides to let it go?"
Ma Hongjun placed the half-eaten roast chicken on the table, the oil stains spreading across the wood grain.
He lowered his head, his voice filled with frustration: "If you ask me, we should just admit defeat. We can't win anyway, so why humiliate ourselves?"
"Bang!"
Dai Mubai suddenly stood up, the chair scraping against the floor with a screeching sound.
The veins on his forehead were clearly visible, and his fist slammed heavily on the table, making the battle chart jump: "You've already given up before even fighting? Where's Shrek Academy's face? Ma Hongjun, are you even a man?"
Ma Hongjun shrank back after being yelled at, but still retorted in a low voice, "I'm just telling the truth. Third Brother and Xiao Wu aren't here, how are we supposed to fight them? If we can't beat them, why force our way in? Isn't that just being stubborn?"
"Enough!" Dai Mubai grabbed Ma Hongjun by the collar. "You have no backbone at all. With your cowardly mentality, you deserve to be trampled underfoot for the rest of your life!"
Flanders coughed loudly: "Stop it, all of you!"
He pushed up his slipped glasses, his gaze behind the lenses sharp as a knife. "Dai Mubai is right, Shrek Academy has no tradition of retreating without a fight. But Ma Hongjun's concerns are not without merit. Let's think of another way."
The atmosphere in the room froze for a moment, and everyone's eyes turned to Yu Xiaogang, who was sitting by the window.
Moonlight streamed through the window, casting a silvery glow on the desk in front of him, illuminating the sheet of paper densely covered with analyses yet streaked with messy scratches.
Liu Erlong walked lightly behind him, her slender fingers gently pressing on his shoulder, only to feel the muscles beneath her hand stiff as iron.
She frowned slightly, but did not make a sound to disturb them.
With a soft sound, the pen in Yu Xiaogang's hand suddenly slipped from his fingers and rolled a long way on the wooden floor.
He slowly shook his head, his voice dry as if he hadn't drunk water in a long time: "Without Tang San and Xiao Wu, our core tactical system simply cannot function."
His gaze lingered on the tactical diagrams on the paper, which had been repeatedly revised and crossed out, and his heart was filled with complex emotions.
The perfect theories built up over the years, and the tactical combinations that have been simulated countless times, all require a sufficiently powerful control-type Soul Master and a speed-attack-type Soul Master to execute.
Tang San is not only his disciple, but also the best practitioner of his theories.
Now, facing a formidable opponent like Shenfeng Academy, Yu Xiaogang clearly realizes that Shrek Academy's current lineup is simply unable to support his meticulously designed tactical system.
Although Dai Mubai is brave, he lacks tactical skills; Ma Hongjun's flames are difficult to control precisely; and Oscar's support abilities are limited.
Without Tang San, a control-type Soul Master, and Xiao Wu, an agility-type Soul Master, the team's combat power is greatly reduced.
"My theory needs geniuses to execute it." This thought lingered in Yu Xiaogang's mind.
His decades of painstaking research into martial spirit theory and those exquisite tactical combinations, without key members, are like a magnificent pavilion without a foundation, which may collapse at any moment.
Liu Erlong sensed the fluctuation in his emotions and slightly increased the pressure on his hand: "Xiao Gang, perhaps we can try other tactics."
Yu Xiaogang remained silent for a long time before finally shaking his head slowly: "Without suitable control-type and agility-type Soul Masters, forcibly implementing these tactics will only backfire."
He raised his head, his gaze sweeping over every expectant face in the room, finally settling on Flander. "With our current lineup, I can't think of a way to defeat Kamikaze Academy."
The room fell into a deathly silence; even the usually optimistic Oscar lowered his head.
Flander took off his glasses and rubbed his temples wearily.
Outside the window, the lights of Wuhun City still shone brightly, but they could not illuminate the heavy hearts of the Shrek Academy students.
...
The next day, at noon.
The scorching sun shone directly on the central arena, baking the bluestone floor until it was burning hot.
The competition proceeded quickly, and before long it was Shrek Academy's turn to perform.
As the Shrek team stepped onto the arena, a gasp suddenly erupted from the audience.
Dai Mubai squinted at the opposite side, and after seeing the lineup of Shenfeng Academy, his face turned ashen.
Huo Wu and Huo Wushuang stood prominently in the Shenfeng Academy's group, looking over with cold smiles.
Yu Xiaogang, sitting in the audience, suddenly stood up, his voice trembling with anger: "Referee! Huo Wu and Huo Wushuang are clearly members of the Blazing Fire Academy, so why are they on the Divine Wind Academy's team? This is a clear violation of the competition rules!"
Bibi Dong, standing on the high platform, coldly looked down at the arena, a barely perceptible hint of disappointment flashing in her eyes as she swept over Yu Xiaogang.
The man she once loved deeply has now become so stubborn and inflexible, clinging to the rules instead of facing challenges and putting his theories into practice.
In her heart, the once spirited theoretical master no longer exists.
"Huo Wu and Huo Wushuang have officially joined Shenfeng Academy, fully meeting the competition rules." Bibi Dong's voice was devoid of warmth, as if she were reading an insignificant official document.
She deliberately avoided looking at Yu Xiaogang, as if he were just an insignificant one among the many viewers.
Yu Xiaogang was struck dumb, as he keenly sensed the aloofness and indifference in Bibi Dong's eyes.
The feeling of being deliberately ignored is more hurtful than any words.
His lips trembled slightly, his pride being pierced by the pain.
Two people who once loved each other are now like strangers.
On the field, Ma Hongjun's legs began to tremble uncontrollably, and fine beads of sweat appeared on his forehead.
He swallowed hard, his voice trembling: "It's over, Huo Wu's Fire Resistance Ring plus Feng Xiaotian's Gale Twin-Headed Wolf..."
Dai Mubai clenched his fists tightly, his nails digging deep into his palms.
Does he not even get a chance to fight his brother Davis before he has to slink back home in such a sorry state?
In the audience, Chu Xinghe leaned back leisurely in his seat and smiled at Zhu Zhuqing beside him: "It seems that without Tang San, Shrek Academy is destined to be eliminated in the first round."
Zhu Zhuqing's expression was icy, her gaze sweeping indifferently across the arena: "Since the day I left, Shrek Academy has had nothing to do with me anymore."
Her voice was calm and even, as if she were talking about something that had nothing to do with her.
On the field, the referee has raised his right hand; the match is about to begin.
Faced with the rapidly increasing strength of the Divine Wind Academy, the Shrek academy members were filled with despair.
Bibi Dong on the high platform maintained her perfect demeanor. Only she knew the bitterness that welled up in her heart when she saw Yu Xiaogang's dejected appearance.
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