Douluo Continent: Tonight, a Fairy Tale Descends.

Emperor Xueye's anger was not without reason. He now regarded Geduo and her pills as important strategic resources to enhance the power of the Heaven Dou Kingdom and even to counter Star Luo and the Spirit Hall in the future.

He originally planned to proceed slowly and secretly accumulate strength, but he did not expect Xingluo to act so quickly upon hearing the news, and even put on a high-sounding posture, using the guise of friendly exchanges to directly penetrate the heart of Tiandou.

What alarmed him even more was that Dai Tianfeng had not sent any princes this time, but Zhu Tianlin, the head of the Zhu family, who held a prestigious position in the Star Luo Empire and was known for his iron-fisted methods and formidable strength.

At the same time, he is also the father of Crown Princess Zhu Zhuyun and one of the most powerful figures in the Star Luo Empire's military.

Sending a top strategist of the empire and a military giant as the chief envoy carries far more weight than sending a prince.

This demonstrates Xingluo's extreme importance to this exchange, and the underlying power and sense of oppression are self-evident.

This is a direct slap in his face and a provocation against the majesty of the Heavenly Dou Empire!

However, after his outburst of rage, Emperor Xueye quickly forced himself to calm down.

Reason told him that refusing entry to the Star Luo delegation was absolutely impossible.

Although the two countries are constantly vying for power behind the scenes, they maintain a basic level of peace and diplomatic relations on the surface.

Xingluo, under the guise of a soul master exchange, was led by the Zhu family head himself. The reason was perfectly legitimate and of extremely high standard. If Tiandou refused to participate or showed any negligence, it would not only be in the wrong but would also give Xingluo and even the Spirit Hall an excuse to make a fuss.

"Hmph! Exchange? Fine! Since you want to exchange, then I will have a proper exchange with you!" A cold, sharp glint flashed in Emperor Xueye's eyes.

"In every previous so-called exchange, the students of my Heavenly Dou Royal Academy were always overwhelmed and humiliated by those war-loving guys from Star Luo. This time, I want to see if you, Zhu Tianlin, can still laugh when you personally lead the team!"

Thinking of this, a strong sense of confidence and anticipation suddenly surged in Emperor Xueye's heart.

Things are different now!

First, there was the batch of pills that had just flowed out of Ge Duo's hands.

Although each company is still in the cautious trial phase, success stories have already spread.

This means that, given time, the overall strength of the younger generation of Soul Masters in the Heaven Dou Empire will surely experience a significant leap forward.

As one side gains and the other loses, Xingluo's advantage will gradually be leveled or even surpassed.

Secondly, and this is his greatest source of confidence at this moment, is Eva's cousin, Lin Wan!

He's now a Soul Master! And he even has a fourth Soul Ring that's been around for ten thousand years!

What an astonishing talent!

Emperor Xueye could almost imagine the immense shock that Lin Wan's appearance on the exchange field would bring to the Star Luo delegation.

This is simply a perfect weapon to slap Xingluo in the face!

Emperor Xueye took a deep breath, suppressing his surging blood and qi, and ordered in a deep voice, "Pass down the order to receive the Star Luo delegation with courtesy and not to be negligent, but also to keep a close eye on them for me!"

"Furthermore, I urgently summon the three academic committee members of the Royal Academy and the team leader. In this exchange with Xingluo, victory is the only option; defeat is not an option! Show me your full potential! In particular, make sure Lin Wan is well prepared. I want to see him make a stunning debut in the exchange competition and bring glory to our nation!"

"Yes, Your Majesty!" The eunuch quickly accepted the order and left.

Emperor Xueye slowly sat back in his chair, his gaze passing through the window towards the Star Luo Empire, a cold yet expectant smile playing on his lips.

"Dai Tianfeng, you want to probe my strength and seize my opportunities? Fine, I'll show you just how powerful my Heavenly Battle is now! This time, I'll make sure your Star Luo geniuses suffer a crushing defeat!"

……

The Star Luo Empire's ambassadorial delegation, led by Zhu Tianlin, marched in a grand procession along the official road towards Tian Dou City, under official ceremonies and overt protection.

However, hidden within this team are two individuals whose identities are extremely special and who are not on the official roster.

The Third Prince Dai Mubai, and the First Prince Davis.

Dai Mubai acted first. When he learned through his secret channels that a miraculous pill had appeared in Tiandou City that could help people absorb soul rings beyond their level, the flame of ambition that had never been extinguished beneath his indulgent exterior was instantly ignited.

Absorbing a soul ring of a higher level! What does this mean?

This means that he can directly obtain more powerful soul skills without changing his soul power level, and that he can absorb soul rings of higher age with each breakthrough during his cultivation, thereby making his soul power grow faster and his foundation more solid!

This is a golden opportunity for him to narrow the almost hopeless gap in ability between himself and Davis, and even to overtake him.

Without any hesitation, Dai Mubai immediately used all his hidden power to meticulously plan and act first, then inform the delegation, and quietly infiltrated the entourage.

He knew full well that this move was extremely risky, and that if Davis or his father found out, he would be severely punished.

But opportunities are fleeting, and he had to take a gamble. For survival and for that slim hope of turning things around, he was willing to take the risk.

However, Dai Mubai still underestimated his good older brother's spies and methods.

Not long after he left Star City, Davis received the message.

Inside the luxurious palace, Davis heard his confidant's report, and a cold, mocking smile appeared on his handsome face.

"Oh? My third brother, who only knows how to indulge in pleasure, actually has such audacity and meticulousness? For the sake of the elixir, he even dared to disobey Father's decree and secretly follow them?"

His long, slender fingers tapped lightly on the table, his eyes flashing with a cold light.

Dai Mubai's move took him by surprise, and made him feel a sense of displeasure at being provoked, as well as a deeper level of vigilance.

This younger brother, whom he had always regarded as a good-for-nothing who only knew how to numb himself with alcohol and women, seemed to be more complex than he appeared.

"The pills that allow one to absorb a soul ring beyond their level are indeed tempting," Davis muttered to himself.

"How could such a thing fall into the hands of that good-for-nothing? It would only add unnecessary complications."

Without any hesitation, Davis immediately got up and went to the palace to meet his father, Emperor Star Luo Dai Tianfeng.

He didn't embellish the story; he simply stated calmly and objectively the facts of Dai Mubai leaving the city without permission and infiltrating the delegation. He also subtly expressed his concern about the elixir and his worry that Uncle Zhu Tianlin might not be able to fully control the situation on his own. He was willing to go to Tiandou in person to bring back his disobedient brother and assist Uncle Zhu Tianlin in securing the greatest possible benefit for the empire.

Dai Tianfeng sat upright on the throne, listening to Davis's account, his face revealing neither joy nor anger.

Chapter 99 Two Soul Masters

Dai Tianfeng's deep gaze lingered on Davis for a moment; he was fully aware of the undercurrents between his two sons.

Dai Mubai's unauthorized actions displeased him, but Davis's request at this moment may not be entirely out of public interest.

However, Dai Tianfeng finally nodded slowly: "Granted. Weiss, you will go to Tiandou under the pretext of patrolling the border and observing and exchanging ideas along the way. Keep an eye on Mu Bai, and be sure to assist Zhu Qing in handling the matter of the elixir."

"Yes, Father! Your son will not fail you!" Davis was secretly pleased and respectfully withdrew.

So, not long after the delegation left Xingluo City, the eldest prince Davis, under another official name, led his personal guard and hurried after the delegation.

Inside the main tent of the delegation, Zhu Tianlin watched the two princes arrive one after the other, especially Dai Mubai, who had secretly infiltrated the group. His face turned pale the instant he saw Dai Weiss expose his identity. The duke, known for his iron-blooded nature, showed no emotion on his face, but his mind was as clear as a mirror.

"Since it is His Majesty's decree, Your Highnesses may accompany him to observe."

Zhu Tianlin glanced at the two men and spoke again: "Now that you're here, stay put and obey all orders. If you two ruin the affairs of the empire, don't blame this duke for being ruthless with military law!"

Davis bowed and agreed, his posture elegant and composed, but his gaze toward Dai Mubai carried a hint of mockery and warning.

Dai Mubai gritted his teeth, his nails digging deep into his palms, forcing himself to lower his head to hide the humiliation and hatred churning in his eyes, and replied in a low voice, "Yes, Duke Zhu."

……

Tian Dou Royal Academy, Education Committee Meeting Room.

The three education commissioners, all at the Contra level—Meng Shenji, Bai Baoshan, and Zhilin—sat at the head of the table with serious expressions.

Below are the eight team members of the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy Team One, including Lin Wan.

Team leader Yu Tianqing stood at the very front, with Ning Zetian and Lin Wan beside him, and the rest of the team behind him.

Looking at the eight people before him, Chief Dream God slowly spoke: "Children, you must have heard about why I summoned you here today. The Star Luo Empire has sent an envoy to conduct an exchange of Soul Masters, and they will arrive in Heaven Dou City soon."

Upon hearing the name Xingluo, the expressions of the other seven people present, except for Lin Wan, changed slightly.

After all, the experience of being thoroughly humiliated by Xingluo Royal Academy in previous years is still a shame that Tiandou Royal Academy can hardly wash away.

“In previous years, the exchange matches were always played by a team from each college, and this year is no exception.” Bai Baoshan continued, patting his round belly, but his tone was anything but relaxed.

"The Star Luo Empire values ​​martial arts, and the students of its Royal Academy have extremely strong combat abilities and their soul power levels are often higher than those of their peers. In the past, we have lost more than we have won, and it has been difficult for us to even win a single victory."

Zhilin Education Committee member sighed: "This time, the Star Luo delegation is personally led by Zhu Tianlin, the head of the Zhu family. It is of extremely high caliber and has arrived with great momentum. The young soul masters accompanying him must be the elite of the Star Luo Royal Academy, and their strength is probably no weaker than in previous years."

The words of the three education commissioners made Yu Tianqing, Ning Zetian and others' expressions become more serious.

They are the best of the younger generation in the Heavenly Dou Empire, proud and ambitious, and naturally do not want to be defeated by others.

Meng Shenji's gaze swept over the crowd, taking in their reactions. Finally, his gaze settled on Lin Wan, and his tone suddenly became more serious: "However, this time is different! His Majesty has personally ordered that this exchange must be won, not lost! Not only must we win, but we must win spectacularly, to uphold our national prestige and thoroughly dampen the arrogance of Xingluo!"

His Majesty's order? Only victory is permitted, defeat is not an option?

The expressions on Yu Tianqing, Ning Zetian and the others did not change much, only they became a little more solemn, but they were far from being fearful or under great pressure.

Who are they? Yu Tianqing, a direct descendant of the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan, and a candidate for successor of one of the three upper clans, has seen many storms. While he certainly needs to respect the orders of the imperial family, he is not so afraid of them.

Ning Zetian, the nephew of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School's leader, is a core member of the wealthiest sect in the world. From a young age, he has been exposed to the power struggles at the top of the continent. His Majesty's expectations are pressure, but also motivation, rather than an unbearable burden.

Yan Xin, Huo Lie, and others all come from major Soul Master families. They are geniuses nurtured by their families and have their own pride and confidence.

Failure? It's just a matter of losing face. When I get back, I might get a scolding from the elders of the family and have to intensify my training.

As for more serious consequences? None.

Their backgrounds meant that losing a competition between colleges wouldn't shake their fundamental strength.

No matter how much Emperor Xueye values ​​this, he cannot truly punish these pillars of the empire's future, especially since they have powerful sects and families behind them.

Therefore, they took Emperor Xueye's orders seriously, but were by no means afraid of them.

“I know this is difficult,” Dream God said in a deep voice, “but the Empire has high hopes for you! And this time, we are not without confidence!”

As he spoke, he gestured, and the Zhilin Education Committee distributed a stack of organized materials to everyone.

"This is the general information we can gather so far about the members of the Star Luo Royal Academy team. They most likely brought these seven people with them on this trip," Meng Shenji said.

“Take a closer look.”

Yu Tianqing and the others immediately lowered their heads and began to peruse the documents.

Level 42! Level 41! Two Soul Masters!

The opposing team's captain has actually broken through the Soul Master barrier, and he's at level 42!

However, Yu Tianqing was not discouraged. After all, the other party was a few years older than him. When he reached that age, he believed that he could naturally reach level 42 as well.

Ning Zetian and the others also looked grim, as the opponent's average strength was clearly a cut above theirs.

"See that? This is the opponent we're about to face." Dream Machine's voice rang out again, breaking the silence.

"Their strength is formidable, especially the captain and vice-captain, both of whom have broken through to the Soul Master level." Zhi Lin, the Education Commissioner, pointed out the key point: "Based on paper strength, we are indeed at a disadvantage."

Upon hearing this, Yu Tianqing involuntarily glanced at Lin Wan beside him, his tone carrying a hint of relief.

"It's all just paper strength, Zhilin Education Commissioner. Don't forget, we have a monster here that can't be fathomed by common sense."

Upon hearing this, Ning Zetian, Yan Xin, and the others all showed similar expressions, their gazes all falling on Lin Wan.

Yes! What are they afraid of? They have Lin Wan! He's also a Soul Master, and he even has a fourth Soul Ring that's been around for ten thousand years!

This kind of existence is meant to break the rules and create miracles.

With Lin Wan leading the way, the pressure they had to bear was instantly reduced by more than half.

Chapter 100 Gathering Information

In Yu Tianqing's view, what was originally a match that might have required a desperate struggle to gain a chance of victory now seemed not so difficult.

They were even somewhat looking forward to seeing what kind of interesting expressions the Xingluo guys would make when facing Lin Wan, this unconventional opponent.

Meng Shenji took in everyone's reactions, understood the situation, and felt somewhat helpless.

These youngsters' backgrounds certainly gave them a sense of composure and confidence, but fortunately, Lin Wan's addition also truly inspired their fighting spirit and confidence.

“Not bad!” Meng Shenji affirmed.

"Lin Wan will be the key to our victory this time, and His Majesty also places high hopes on her. Your mission is to fully cooperate with Lin Wan and demonstrate the true strength of our Heavenly Dou Royal Academy! Understand?"

"Understood! Education Commission!" everyone responded in unison.

"Alright, go down and study the tactics carefully, and get the team in good working order!" Bai Baoshan waved his hand.

The group bowed and took their leave.

As they walked out of the meeting room, Yu Tianqing patted Lin Wan on the shoulder and laughed, "Lin Wan, this time we're counting on you to show your prowess! We'll all be there to support you!"

Ning Zetian smiled and said, "Brother Lin Wan, please just tell me how you need my Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda's amplification."

Others echoed this sentiment. They may have had their own pride, but faced with absolute strength and common interests, they all wisely chose to center their support around Lin Wan.

Looking at her teammates who had suddenly shifted the burden onto her shoulders and become full of energy, Lin Wan could only nod helplessly: "Yeah, I'll do my best."