Douluo Continent: Tonight, a Fairy Tale Descends.

As Qian Renxue looked at these words, her fingertips felt slightly cold.

She already knew about Lin Wan's breakthrough.

A Soul King at the age of fifteen—even she couldn't achieve that back then.

A complex emotion, difficult to describe, welled up inside me.

Was it jealousy? Was it astonishment? Or... a hint of doubt about his own choice?

She spent over a decade in hiding, working tirelessly and cautiously, paying a price that is unimaginable to ordinary people.

Yet a boy with no background, in an almost arrogant manner, reached a height that she had never achieved.

If... if she hadn't chosen to lie low back then, but instead stayed in the Spirit Hall to focus on her cultivation, what would her life be like now, given her talent?

This thought, like a venomous snake, gnawed at Qian Renxue's heart, causing her to momentarily lose her composure and waver.

But she quickly suppressed this inappropriate emotion.

There's no turning back now that the arrow has been released; she's already paid too high a price and has no way out.

She turned her gaze back to the secret letter.

What is Lin Wan's relationship with them?

Qian Renxue pictured Queen Eva's beautiful yet unfathomable face in her mind.

They had made an agreement long ago.

Lin Wan is Eva's nephew; that's his public identity.

Regardless of Eva's true purpose, at least for now, Lin Wan belongs to their side, to the power secretly controlled by the Spirit Hall.

With that thought in mind, Qian Renxue no longer hesitated.

She spread out the specially made letter paper, dipped her pen in ink, and began to reply.

She explained to Bibi Dong in detail the kinship between Lin Wan and Eva, as well as Eva's current status and influence within the palace.

She made it clear that Lin Wan belongs to her power, is completely controllable at least at this stage, and has huge potential, making her worthy of being nurtured and invested in, rather than eliminated.

After writing the last word, Qian Renxue put down her pen, gently blew away the ink, and carefully sealed the letter.

After doing all this, she leaned back in her chair and let out a long sigh of relief.

Outside the window, dusk was approaching, and the afterglow of the setting sun painted the horizon a magnificent orange-red.

Qian Renxue gazed at the magnificent sunset, her eyes somewhat unfocused.

What kind of changes will Lin Wan, this suddenly rising young man, bring to this continent and to her plans?

she does not know.

All she knew was that the game of chess before her had become more complex and more interesting because of this chess piece that had suddenly become incredibly dazzling.

……

A duality of ice and fire.

The red and blue spring waters still flowed distinctly, and the misty vapor enveloped the valley, creating a picturesque scene.

A year or so is but a fleeting moment for this natural wonder. But for those within it, it is enough time for many changes to occur.

Ning Rongrong, dressed in a light brown knee-length skirt, sat on the edge of the warm jade platform, her fair legs swaying gently in the air.

She held an unidentified blade of grass in her hand, idly fiddling with a plant beside the jade platform that emitted a shimmering blue light.

“Auntie Geduo, this plant seems a little brighter than when I last came.”

Ning Rongrong raised her head and looked at the figure standing in front of the Crystal House not far away, her voice carrying a hint of intimacy that she herself did not realize.

Ge Duo turned around, her deep purple skirt tracing a slight arc.

Her face was expressionless, but when her deep green eyes fell on Ning Rongrong, the usual aloofness seemed to fade a little.

"Hmm, the energy nourishment from the Ice and Fire Dual Eyes is somewhat beneficial to it."

Gedo's voice was calm and even, revealing no emotion. She strode over, her pale fingers lightly brushing across the leaves, her movements seemingly casual, yet precisely avoiding the most energetic leaf core.

Watching Ge Duo's actions, Ning Rongrong realized that this seemingly cold and aloof ruler was actually quite thoughtful. She put down the grass stems, jumped off the jade platform, and patted her skirt.

"I feel my soul power has become a little more solidified." She said in a light tone, with a hint of pride.

"Maybe next time I come, I'll be able to break through to level 20!"

Upon hearing this, Ge Duo's gaze swept over Ning Rongrong.

The peak of level 19 is indeed just one step away from level 20.

The power of the contract, like the finest roots, had already quietly spread deep within the girl's soul, influencing not only her emotional inclinations but also making her soul power flow more smoothly than that of ordinary people during cultivation.

"No rush," Ge Duo said casually, walking over to a smooth stone bench and sitting down, her posture still carrying that lingering languor.

"It is more important to lay a solid foundation. The cultivation of the Seven Treasures Glazed Pagoda should be steady rather than fast."

This statement sounds like it's entirely from Ning Rongrong's perspective.

Ning Rongrong nodded obediently, ran to sit on the stone bench next to Ge Duo, and rested her chin on her hands: "I know, Aunt Ge Duo. Father and Grandpa Jian always say the same thing."

She paused, as if remembering something, and complained softly, "Sometimes I find cultivation so boring. It's much more interesting here. It's quiet and peaceful, and there are so many beautiful plants."

Gedo unconsciously twirled a dark gemstone on the hem of her skirt with her fingertips, without replying.

Quiet? Interesting?

It's just that this girl is influenced by her contract, so people just like her.

Without a contract, given the unconventional nature of this little princess of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School, she would probably throw a tantrum and head back after only half a day in this valley where there is nothing but spring water and herbs.

But she doesn't mind acting alongside this little princess who is being drawn together by invisible threads.

"If you're bored, take a look at these herbs." Ge Duo pointed to the various plants around her that were illuminated by red and blue light.

"The growth of each of them contains the laws of energy, which are beneficial to Soul Masters."

"Oh." Ning Rongrong responded as if she understood, but her gaze was more focused on Ge Duo's pale yet exquisite profile.

She thought Aunt Geduo knew a lot, and she was becoming more and more pleasing to the eye.

Even though she didn't talk much and her expression was always indifferent, Ning Rong inexplicably felt very at ease being by her side. It was much more comfortable than facing those obsequious servants and clan members who tried so hard to please her in the sect.

"Auntie Geduo, what kind of soul ring should I get when I reach level 20?" Ning Rongrong moved closer and asked with a hint of dependence.

Although she could consult her father and two grandfathers in the sect, she wanted to hear Ge Duo's opinion more at this moment.

Ge Duo glanced at her and saw the pure trust and expectation in the girl's eyes. She felt nothing in her heart, and even wanted to laugh a little.

What a useful contract.

"It will depend on your father's arrangements at that time." She did not offer any specific advice, and her tone remained calm. "The sect has its own traditions regarding the selection of the soul ring for the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda."

“Okay.” Ning Rongrong was not disappointed. On the contrary, she felt that Aunt Geduo did not interfere and respected her father’s decision.

Chapter 190 Preliminary Rounds

The valley fell silent for a moment, with only the gurgling sound of the springs flowing together.

Ning Rongrong didn't feel embarrassed at all. She just sat quietly next to Ge Duo, looking at the strange scene of red and blue intertwined in front of her. The faint smell of medicine lingered around her nose, and she felt that time had slowed down.

After a while, Gedo spoke again: "Let's stop here for today. You should go back now. Swordmaster should be waiting outside the valley."

Upon hearing this, Ning Rongrong's face showed a hint of reluctance, but she still obediently stood up: "Okay, then Aunt Geduo, I'll come to see you again next time."

"Hmm." Ge Duo responded lightly, watching Ning Rongrong walk towards the entrance of the valley, turning back every few steps.

Only after that faint, dark figure disappeared into the poisonous miasma did the almost nonexistent gentleness on Ge Duo's face vanish instantly, replaced by her usual indifference and calculation.

"Feelings?" Ge Duo murmured to herself, a hint of mockery in her voice.

"What a convenient thing."

Whether it's true or false.

……

Heavenly Dou Royal Academy.

Lin Wan looked at Snow White standing at the entrance of her dormitory and was somewhat surprised.

Today she wore an elegant palace-style long dress, her long golden hair was styled into a simple bun, revealing her smooth forehead and slender neck, making her look more dignified than usual.

But in those clear eyes, there was a hint of embarrassment and helplessness that was hard to detect.

"Why are you here?" Lin Wan stepped aside to let her in and closed the door behind her.

They usually communicate through the system when they have something to discuss, so this is the first time they've come to each other's door like this.

Snow White walked into the room, her gaze quickly sweeping over the single dormitory belonging to the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy team.

The room was very clean, with almost no unnecessary decorations, exuding a sense of efficiency that belonged to Lin Wan.

She took a light breath before turning to Lin Wan, her voice still cold, but with a hint of something difficult to say: "His Majesty Xueye sent me."

Lin Wan raised an eyebrow, remaining silent and waiting for her to continue.

Snow White frowned slightly, as if organizing her thoughts, before continuing, "He told me... to spend more time with you and maintain a good relationship."

She paused, then looked up at Lin Wan, her pure eyes conveying a clear meaning—you understand.

Lin Wan understood, of course.

He is not yet sixteen years old, but his soul power has already reached level fifty. He has led the Heavenly Fighting Team to achieve an undefeated record in the Soul Battle Tournament, and his name has already spread throughout the imperial high command.

Emperor Xueye was neither blind nor stupid. How could he not try his best to win over such a rising star who was about to shine in the mainland finals?

And his daughter, who is of similar age and exceptionally talented, is undoubtedly the best bond to maintain this relationship.

Utilize? Not really.

This is more like a tacit political investment and emotional entanglement.

"So," Lin Wan said calmly, her tone revealing no emotion.

"Does Your Majesty wish for you to take me out for a walk?"

Snow White nodded, her embarrassment becoming more pronounced. She was kind by nature and disliked such scheming, but bearing the identity of the Heavenly Dou Princess and enjoying the conveniences and responsibilities that came with it, there were some things she couldn't simply refuse.

"My father suggested that I invite you to watch the preliminary rounds of the All-Continent Elite Tournament of Advanced Soul Master Academies, which is being held today. Our Heavenly Dou region's matches will be held in the Great Soul Arena within the Imperial City."

After Snow White finished speaking, she looked quietly at Lin Wan, waiting for his response.

As the one who was summoned, she knew very well that Lin Wan was not very interested in these kinds of occasions, especially the preliminary rounds with such uneven skill levels.

With his current strength and vision, watching those Soul Master and Great Soul Master level teams fight like chickens is probably no different from watching children playing house.

Lin Wan paused for a moment.

He really wasn't interested. The Tiandou team had been guaranteed a spot in the finals, so the preliminaries and qualifying rounds were none of their business. He was happy to have some free time and preferred to spend it on cultivation or researching the system.

But he looked at Snow White, who was slightly pursing her lips. She clearly didn't like this task either, yet she still came.

Her insistence out of a sense of duty, and the hint of embarrassment in her eyes, a reluctance to cause trouble for others, eased some of his impatience.

It wouldn't hurt to go and take a look; it would be a good way to relax. Besides, you might get some inspiration from observing their fighting methods.

"Let's go." Lin Wan didn't say anything more and walked straight out the door.

Snow White paused for a moment, seemingly surprised that he agreed so readily, then breathed a sigh of relief and quickly followed.

The two walked out of the dormitory area side by side and headed out of the college.

Along the way, some students occasionally cast curious and awe-inspiring glances, but they quickly looked away when they saw Lin Wan's expressionless face.

Snow White's royal status and Lin Wan's strength made their pair stand out, yet no one dared to approach and disturb them.

The Grand Arena of Heaven Dou City was bustling with activity today.

As the top-level Soul Master competition in the entire mainland, even the lowest-level preliminary rounds have attracted the attention of countless people and various forces.

The huge circular stadium was packed to capacity, and the deafening noise almost lifted the dome.

The appearance of Lin Wan and Snow White caused a small commotion in the VIP area.

Immediately, an official in charge of reception greeted them warmly and led them to a private spot with an excellent view, partially separated by a screen.

After the two sat down, servants immediately served them exquisite tea, snacks, and drinks.