Douluo: The Peerless King of Beast Tamers

Chapter 361 Shrek's Superstar, Sea God Pavilion Meeting
The next morning, golden sunlight streamed into Poseidon Island, and the air was filled with the fresh scent of morning dew and grass.

After finishing his night of cultivation, Zhou Sichen leisurely walked towards the cafeteria. In the distance, he saw two familiar figures walking towards him, chatting and laughing. It was Xu Jiujiu and Zhang Lexuan.

Xu Jiujiu wore a light yellow short-sleeved shirt today, and the hem of her skirt swayed gently with her movements, like a lively nightingale.

Zhang Lexuan wore a simple white dress, her long hair loosely tied up with a jade hairpin, exuding a gentle and profound temperament.

As Zhou Sichen approached, both of them smiled, and the three of them walked together.

The cafeteria was bustling with people, and the wooden tables and chairs gleamed warmly in the morning light.

Cao Jinxuan and Long Xiangyue were sitting by the window waving in this direction, but when they saw Zhou Sichen naturally walk over and sit down between the two women, they exchanged a glance and wisely withdrew their hands.

Long Xiangyue nudged Cao Jinxuan with his elbow, winked and gestured toward the corner. Cao Jinxuan nodded, suppressing a laugh. The two of them carried their trays to the most secluded corner.

There's nothing we can do; the two senior female disciples beside our eldest brother have such a strong presence.

Although they were used to their eldest brother being surrounded by his wives, this was clearly a time for the three of them to be alone, and they didn't want to be the inconsiderate third wheel.

Zhou Sichen picked up a steaming hot meat bun and took a bite when Zhang Lexuan said with a light smile, "You went back to the academy before us, why don't you go to the party and show your face?"

"You didn't see it, all those junior students in the inner courtyard are so eager, craning their necks like baby birds waiting to be fed." She raised her eyes slightly as she spoke, her tone carrying a hint of teasing.

Xu Jiujiu immediately chimed in, "That's right! When you weren't there, many people looked like they'd lost their souls. Even when our senior sister was speaking on stage, she couldn't lift their spirits."

As she spoke, she picked up a crystal shrimp dumpling with her chopsticks, her eyes sparkling as she looked at Zhou Sichen, like a little fox who had just pulled off a prank.

Zhou Sichen swallowed the food in her mouth and raised an eyebrow with a helpless expression: "It's not as exaggerated as you guys say. Ah Xuan and Ah Yue already told me that the party last night was very lively. Don't try to team up with me to make fun of me."

"Hehe," Xu Jiujiu winked playfully, "It's a little bit exaggerated, but you really are Shrek's number one superstar now!"

She held up her finger and gestured: "When you walk on the road in the inner courtyard, nine out of ten people are talking about you, and the remaining one is either looking for you or asking about you."

Zhang Lexuan put down the celadon bowl in her hand and added seriously, "I heard from Xu Sanshi and the others that the Hongchen siblings have performed quite well in the inner courtyard in the past six months, almost sweeping away all their peers."

"But they say privately that the only person in the entire Shrek Academy who they truly consider a formidable rival is you."

She paused, her tone tinged with pride: "Those inner court students who were defeated by the Hongchen siblings now look at you with the eyes of a god, they worship you to no end."

"Yes, yes, yes!" Xu Jiujiu nodded hurriedly in agreement, her mouth still full of porridge, her voice slightly slurred.

"Back in the tournament, you single-handedly broke the martial soul fusion technique of the Hongchen siblings. That's become a legend in the inner academy now!"

"You don't know, but in the two-on-two battles in the inner courtyard now, there are very few who can last ten moves against them."

She put down her spoon, her tone becoming increasingly exaggerated: "Even Dai Huabin and Zhu Lu's Netherworld White Tiger were at a disadvantage when they faced them last time. Just think how powerful that is?"

"No wonder everyone talks about you like you're some kind of god, saying that if you were to make a move, you could beat the Hongchen siblings down with just one finger!"

Zhou Sichen chuckled at her words and shook her head: "You guys, stop joining in the teasing."

"No wonder people kept staring at me like I was a rare animal on my way here from my place."

"Fortunately, our Shrek Academy students are all of good quality. There are no obsessive fans or anything outrageous they've done."

"Rare animals? Sasaeng fans?" Xu Jiujiu caught the key words, her eyes widening: "What is sasaeng fan? Is it delicious? What is it made of? I've never heard of it before?"

Zhang Lexuan also looked at Zhou Sichen curiously, clearly puzzled by this unfamiliar term.

Looking at the two people's purely curious eyes, Zhou Sichen suddenly felt that explaining would be too troublesome, so he waved his hand and laughed, "It's nothing, just a casual analogy."

"By the way, the teacher asked us to have a meeting at the Sea God Pavilion today. Let's go together after we finish eating."

"I can go too?" Xu Jiujiu suddenly raised her voice, almost spitting out the porridge in her mouth. She pointed at herself incredulously, "The Sea God Pavilion meeting? Did I hear that right?"

It's important to know that the Sea God Pavilion is the core of Shrek Academy and a symbol of the academy's highest power center.

Those who could enter that place to attend the meeting were either highly respected elders or figures at the level of the presidents of the two academies.

Although Xu Jiujiu is now a Soul Saint and can be considered one of the best among the younger generation, in terms of seniority and status, he is still far from being able to enter the Sea God Pavilion.

Zhou Sichen nodded firmly: "Of course, not only you, but Caitou will also be going."

Upon hearing that there was also radish, Xu Jiujiu instantly understood seven or eight parts of it. The surprise on her face slowly turned into understanding, and she nodded vigorously: "Then let's eat quickly, so as not to keep the teachers waiting too long."

The three quickened their pace of eating, and the morning light shone through the carved windows of the cafeteria, casting dappled shadows on them.

Zhou Sichen looked at the two girls beside her, who were slowly shoveling rice into their porridge, with a few grains of rice still stuck to the corners of their mouths.

Zhang Lexuan calmly wiped the corner of her mouth, her eyes as serene as still water.

The scene warmed his heart. After going through all the ups and downs outside, it was so good to be back at the academy with these familiar people around.

After breakfast, the three of them walked side by side through the campus in the early morning.

The roadside flowers and plants were still covered with glistening dewdrops, and occasionally passing students would greet them.

When they saw Zhou Sichen, their eyes were filled with undisguised excitement and admiration, but they all maintained a respectful distance, only bowing and greeting him from afar.

Xu Jiujiu couldn't help but chuckle softly, "See? I wasn't lying to you, was I? You're now a true idol of Shrek Academy."

Zhou Sichen shrugged helplessly: "I just hope this 'admiration' won't cause me too much trouble."

Zhang Lexuan said softly, "Don't worry, Shrek Academy's rules are there, no one dares to mess around."

"Moreover, people admire you more because of your strength and sense of responsibility. In the last All-Continent Advanced Soul Master Academy Battle Tournament, you won such great honor for the academy, so it is only right that they respect you."

As they spoke, the ancient and solemn building of the Sea God Pavilion appeared in front of them.

It stands quietly on the mountainside, surrounded by dense ancient trees, like a sleeping old man, exuding the majesty of time.

The vermilion gate was tightly shut, and two newly added stone lions stood lifelike in front of it, their sharp eyes staring intently at anyone who came in. The invisible pressure seemed to freeze the air.

Zhou Sichen stepped forward and gently pushed open the door, and a rustic atmosphere mixed with sandalwood and scholarly scent wafted out.

The interior was dimly lit, with dozens of carved dragon and phoenix-painted mahogany pillars supporting the high dome.

Hanging in the very center is a black plaque with gold lettering, bearing the three powerful characters "Sea God Pavilion," the brushstrokes seemingly containing a surge of immense spiritual power.

The Sea God Pavilion was already packed with people.

In the main seat, Elder Mu, dressed in a dark robe, had a gaunt face but bright, piercing eyes, and was resting with his eyes closed.

Three elderly men sat on his left and right sides: Elder Song, Elder Lin, and Elder Zhuang. All three elders had solemn expressions and exuded an unfathomable aura.

The first seat on the left was empty; it was Xuanzi's reserved seat.

Since Xuanzi took on the role of a permanent member of the Spirit Pagoda, he has been frequently traveling between the two places. This time, after settling Zhang Lexuan and the others at the academy, he rushed back to the Spirit Pagoda without stopping.

Behind the elders sat Deans Yan Shaozhe, Cai Meier, Xian Liner, Qian Duoduo, and Fan Yu. They all nodded slightly in greeting when they saw Zhou Sichen and his companions enter.

When Zhang Lexuan saw her seat, she calmly walked over and sat down, her movements elegant and graceful.

Zhou Sichen then walked straight to the seat opposite Elder Mu.

That was a seat reserved for the successor of the Sea God Pavilion Master; in the entire Shrek Academy, only he was qualified to sit there.

Xu Jiujiu and He Caitou, who had arrived with Fan Yu, stood somewhat reservedly behind Zhou Sichen, both with their heads slightly lowered, not daring to breathe loudly.

He Caitou nervously gripped the hem of his clothes with both hands. Although it wasn't the first time, the large-scale event still made him a little nervous.

In contrast, Xu Jiujiu was much calmer.

Although she was also a little excited, having grown up in the royal family and been used to grand occasions with Xu Jiawei, she was trying her best to calm herself down. Her eyes secretly swept over each of the elders present, but her ears were perked up, afraid of missing a single word.

Old Mu slowly opened his eyes, and two beams of light suddenly burst forth from his cloudy eyes, sweeping over everyone present.

Finally, the voice landed on Zhou Sichen, aged yet full of strength: "Now that everyone is here, let's begin."

Elder Mu's gaze slowly swept over everyone present, his aged voice carrying a hint of satisfaction: "Now that Si Chen and the others have returned safely, Le Xuan is already a Title Douluo, and Jiu Jiu and Cai Tou have even broken through to the Soul Saint and Soul Emperor realms, our Shrek Academy is truly producing outstanding talents and becoming more and more prosperous."

As soon as he finished speaking, a murmur of agreement rippled through the Sea God Pavilion. Yan Shaozhe smiled gently: "Elder Mu is right. Si Chen always brings surprises when she returns. This time, she even managed to form a contract with the Snow Empress and the Sea Princess. Such an encounter is truly unheard of."

Xian Lin'er nodded in agreement: "Cai Tou's talent in soul tools is already amazing. Now that his soul power has broken through to the sixth ring, he will surely be able to reach a new level in soul tool research."

The smiles on everyone's faces were genuine. The growth of Zhou Sichen and others was not only personal progress, but also the foundation for Shrek Academy's future.

But everyone present was shrewd, and they could all see that Elder Mu had gathered everyone today not simply to offer a few words of praise.

After all, Zhou Sichen's progress in soul power, soul core condensation, and even his status as a level nine soul master had already been conveyed to the elders through Elder Mu.

Back when Zhou Sichen made a contract with the Snow Emperor, the entire Sea God Pavilion was shaken. Later, when they learned that he had condensed a soul core, the elders couldn't sleep all night.

Today, everyone has developed strong hearts from his unconventional actions time and time again.

Just like what Old Zhuang joked with Old Song in private: "This kid never plays by the rules. We should just wait to enjoy the good life with him. There's no point in thinking about it any more."

Elder Mu was clearly aware of this as well. The smile on his face gradually faded, and his tone became serious: "However, the reason for gathering everyone today is not to reminisce. I'm sure you all remember that we have already toppled the statues of the original Shrek Seven Devils."

He paused, his gaze falling on Zhou Sichen. "However, Seagod Island and Seagod Pavilion still use the name 'Seagod' to this day. Sichen, you've just returned from the Sun and Moon Realm, what are your thoughts on this?"

Upon hearing this, the entire Sea God Pavilion fell silent instantly.

All eyes were on Zhou Sichen, and everyone unconsciously lowered their breathing.

Everyone knows what the title "Sea God" represents. It is Tang San's divine position, a symbol of the past protection of Shrek Academy.

However, ever since they discovered Tang San's grand plan spanning ten thousand years, especially his almost ruthless schemes, the academy's higher-ups have completely lost their respect for this "God of the Sea."

Continuing to use this name is like having a thorn stuck in one's heart.

Zhou Sichen sat upright in the chair, his fingertips lightly tapping the armrest, his face showing no emotion.

After a moment, he looked up and smiled: "Old Mu, I don't think there's any need to rush to change your name."

These words stunned everyone. Old Song couldn't help but ask, "Si Chen, you mean..."

"Although Seagod Island and Seagod Pavilion are named after Tang San's godhood, the title 'Seagod' is not exclusive to him."

Zhou Sichen's voice wasn't loud, but it carried an undeniable power: "He's merely the successor to the divine position, currently representing the Sea God. But who can predict the future?"

"boom--"

These words struck like a thunderbolt, exploding in everyone's minds.

The future? Replacing Poseidon?
If someone else had said this, they would probably have been considered crazy.

After all, Tang San is a god from the God Realm, standing at the very top of the entire Douluo Continent.

But now it is Zhou Sichen who is saying these words.

A glint of light flashed in Old Zhuang's cloudy eyes as he stroked his beard and chuckled, "What a fine 'the future is uncertain' statement! That's the spirit of Shrek Academy!"

Old Lin nodded in agreement: "That's right, Shrek Academy has never been a place of timidity. Since Si Chen has this ambition, it's just a name, why not keep it?"

Old Mu looked at Zhou Sichen, a hint of approval flashing in his eyes.

He originally thought Zhou Sichen would advocate changing the name immediately, but he didn't expect the other party to have such a long-term vision.

This perspective has already surpassed that of these elderly people who have been immersed in the ways of the world for many years.

"Very well!" Elder Mu slammed his hand on the armrest, his voice strong and clear: "In that case, the names of Seagod Island and Seagod Pavilion will be retained for the time being!"

With just one sentence, this momentous event that would affect the entire academy was decided.

Xu Jiujiu stood behind Zhou Sichen and quietly breathed a sigh of relief.

She had just been worried that changing her name would cause unrest, but now she was deeply impressed by Zhou Sichen's spirit.

It turns out that he had already set his sights on the unreachable realm of gods.

Elder Mu was clearly satisfied with the result. He then changed the subject and looked at Xu Jiujiu: "Jiujiu, there's something else I need to ask you. Your elder brother sent a message yesterday saying that the Star Luo army needs manpower and hopes you will return to join forces with Gu Yi. What do you think?"

After a long while, he stepped forward and bowed slightly: "Elder Mu, I am willing to go back."

Her voice was clear and bright, without the slightest hesitation.

"Oh?" Elder Mu was somewhat surprised: "Have you thought this through? Although Gu Yi is your friend, the Star Luo military is a complex and complicated place, especially with Duke Baihu..."

After a long while, she raised her head, her eyes firm: "I understand. Gu Yi's strength is beyond doubt, but she is not a person of the Star Luo Empire after all. Duke Baihu has a very high prestige in the Star Luo Army, and his ancestor was the God of War Dai Mubai."

"No matter how good the personal relationship is between the Emperor and the Duke of White Tiger, even with his orders, from the military's perspective, an outsider is always an outsider."

She paused, her tone becoming increasingly earnest: "I will go back to help Gu Yi, not only for Xing Luo, but also to put Duke Bai Hu at ease. I will never let personal feelings affect the overall situation."

These words were well-organized, clearly pointing out both the advantages and disadvantages, and stating the position, which made everyone present nod in approval.

Yan Shaozhe couldn't help but praise, "Jiujiu is becoming more and more responsible."

After hearing the praise for a long time, her cheeks flushed slightly, and she subconsciously looked at Zhou Sichen.

Zhou Sichen smiled gently at her: "Since you've made up your mind, just go for it. But the military is not like the academy, so be careful in everything you do."

"I understand." Xu Jiujiu nodded vigorously, feeling as if she were enveloped in a warm current.

With those words from him, she had the courage to walk on, no matter how difficult the road ahead.

Seeing this, Elder Mu nodded in satisfaction: "Alright, then it's settled. Make your preparations, and you can set off in a few days."

After he finished speaking, his gaze fell on He Caitou again.

He Caitou's heart tightened, and he quickly straightened his back, but his palms involuntarily broke out in a fine sweat.

Elder Mu looked at him, his tone much gentler: "Caitou, you are now a six-ring Soul Emperor, and your mastery of soul tools is approaching level seven. Next, your task is to stay in the academy and cultivate diligently."

"Yes, Elder Mu." He Caitou's voice was a little tense.

"It's not just about soul power, but also about state of mind." Elder Mu's eyes deepened: "As you know, your background is special."

"After the three great empires are unified in the future, the first one to face will be the Sun Moon Empire. At that time, your identity will be the best weapon to rightfully tear through their defenses."

He Caitou suddenly looked up, his eyes flashing with shock and pain, which finally turned into a resolute look.

"Don't worry, Elder Mu! Cai Tou will never let down the academy's training, nor will he betray the boss's trust! If one day I am required to face the sun and moon, I... will not hesitate!"

His voice trembled with suppressed emotion, yet every word was uttered with heartbreaking sorrow.

Everyone knows how cruel it is to make him, as a descendant of the fallen dynasty, fight against his homeland.

But as long as he could take revenge and kill Xu Tianran and those who plotted to usurp power, he would have no regrets.

Zhou Sichen stood up and helped him up, patting him on the shoulder: "Caitou, there's no need for that. You chose this path yourself. Just remember, Shrek will always be your home."

“Boss…” He Caitou’s eyes were red, but he forced back his tears.

Watching this scene, Elder Mu sighed softly: "The academy will not force you to do things you don't want to do, but some responsibilities must always be borne by someone."

He looked around at everyone, his voice becoming steady again: "Sichen, you've just returned, take a few days to rest."

"Three days from now, come with me to the Douling Empire. Luo Chen is there too. The Douling royal family wants to see you. There are some things that require your personal visit."

Zhou Sichen nodded: "Okay."

Old Master Mu slowly stood up: "Let's end the meeting here today. Everyone, please disperse."

"Yes." Everyone stood up, bowed, and left the Sea God Pavilion one after another.

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(End of this chapter)