Douluo Continent: A Sister Who Loves Me From the Start

Xuan Lao's eyes flashed with divine light as he thought to himself, "Jing Hongchen's arrival is truly timely! Did he come with the people from this sect and deliberately appear at this moment, or is it really just a coincidence?" At the same time, a trace of worry rose in his heart. It was very likely that this guy had seen everything Huo Yuhao had done!

This is going to be interesting! If this guy tells anyone about this, wouldn't that damage the academy's reputation? No, I have to find a way to shut him up! Elder Xuan thought to himself.

Although he thought this in his heart, he did not show it. He said calmly, "Since that's the case, guests are guests, please come in." As he spoke, he turned and walked into the Sea God Pavilion.

This time, it was Jing Hongchen's turn to be surprised. He was already taken aback when he was discovered. Relying on his unique concealment soul tool, he was confident that as long as he didn't take any action, no one in the world should be able to find him. But Elder Xuan had seen through his trail in a single sentence. What surprised him even more was that Elder Xuan actually invited him to enter the Sea God Pavilion.

Jing Hongchen hesitated. Entering the Sea God Pavilion might be easy, but leaving would be difficult! After all, this was Shrek Academy, and although he had enough trump cards, Shrek Academy had been famous for millennia, acting as a stabilizing force among the three kingdoms of the former Douluo Continent. It was precisely because of Shrek that the Sun Moon Empire, despite having sufficient resources, hesitated to act rashly.

Poseidon Pavilion, what a magnificent Poseidon Pavilion!

Elder Xuan walked to the entrance of the Sea God Pavilion, turned around and said mockingly, "What? The dignified Master of Mingde Hall doesn't dare to enter the Sea God Pavilion? If that's the case, then what are you doing here?"

Jing Hongchen raised an eyebrow; in terms of arrogance, he even surpassed the sect leader of this sect, Du Busi. The reason he appeared at this moment was precisely because he didn't want to be with the people of this sect, lest it diminish his reputation. Provoked by Elder Xuan, he laughed heartily and strode towards the Sea God Pavilion.

A slight smile appeared on Elder Xuan's lips as he secretly admired Elder Mu's grasp of human nature. Simply inviting Jing Hongchen into the Sea God Pavilion had already significantly dampened his aura.

Upon entering the first floor of the Sea God Pavilion, Jing Hongchen's gaze darted around, surprise frequently flashing in his eyes. Clearly, he had already discerned the extraordinary nature of the Sea God Pavilion.

Elder Xuan walked to the Golden Tree chair on one side of the first floor and sat down, gesturing for Jing Hongchen to enter.

Jing Hongchen didn't stand on ceremony and sat down opposite Elder Xuan with a smile on her face.

Neither of them spoke first; they just sat there staring at each other, but the air suddenly felt as if it were about to freeze.

Elder Xuan and Jing Hongchen possessed somewhat similar auras, both being remarkably profound. However, their auras differed. Elder Xuan's profoundness was like the earth, with a solid foundation. Jing Hongchen's profoundness, on the other hand, stemmed from a suppressed energy poised to erupt at any moment.

"It seems that soul tools can indeed help soul masters to some extent. You are only around level ninety-three, yet you can sit steadily in front of me," Elder Xuan said calmly.

Jing Hongchen smiled slightly and said, "I have always believed that the research on soul tools has only just entered its initial stage. The future world will inevitably belong to soul tools. When one day, soul tools no longer rely on the soul power of soul masters as their power source, then the profession of soul master will inevitably be eliminated. I wonder if Elder Xuan believes this."

Elder Xuan said coldly, "Whether I believe it or not, you won't live to see that day."

Jing Hongchen casually said, "Whether I can see it or not is not important. As long as this certainty will eventually appear in my Sun Moon Empire, that's enough. It will definitely appear in my Sun Moon Empire. Xingluo, Tianhun, Douling, and even your Shrek Academy are far behind in terms of soul tools."

Elder Xuan laughed, "Oh? Is it that far off? I don't think so. Let's talk about defeating Shrek Academy when you can rely on the difference in soul tools. In the recently concluded All-Continent Advanced Soul Master Academy Tournament, we only fielded half of our main force. Yet we still won the championship. This proves that, at least so far, your advantage in soul tools is not decisive."

To Elder Xuan's surprise, Jing Hongchen nodded seriously after hearing his words. "You are quite right. I received a message from your esteemed academy expressing your willingness to exchange and learn with our Sun Moon Royal Soul Master Academy. I was truly delighted at the time. However, I don't know why your academy ultimately changed its mind. If it's because of the unpleasantness at this year's Continental Advanced Soul Master Academy Tournament, I think it's unnecessary. Our Sun Moon Empire has that much magnanimity. A competition is a competition. We won't treat unexpected events during the competition as acts of hatred."

Elder Xuan asked, "Is this the purpose of your visit?"

Jing Hongchen said, "That's part of it. There's another reason: I want to retrieve the Sword of Judgment. This Sword of Judgment is my masterpiece, and it holds great significance for me. I hope you can return it."

Elder Xuan nodded seriously and said, "Alright. As long as you can restore our academy's student Ma Xiaotao to normal, I will return the Sword of Judgment to you."

As Elder Xuan said this, he was secretly plotting how to extort money from him.

……

Chapter 213 Mirror of the Mortal World

As Elder Xuan said this, he was secretly plotting how to extort money from him.

Jing Hongchen's face darkened, and he said, "Elder Xuan, you can't say that. Several of our academy's elite students have also died at the hands of your students. We haven't asked for any compensation."

Elder Xuan said calmly, "Can your academy's students compare to Xiao Tao? Ma Xiao Tao is the successor to the next dean of our academy's Martial Soul Department. She's not even twenty years old yet, possesses cultivation approaching that of a seven-ring Soul Saint, and has a top-tier Beast Martial Soul. In a one-on-one situation, she's invincible among her peers across the entire continent. Of course, Shrek Academy won't force you to give her what she has. It's just that Xiao Tao's situation is special; her Martial Soul has undergone a negative mutation, and she remains unconscious. Once we find a way to cure her from that sword, we will definitely return that so-called Sword of Judgment to you."

Jing Hongchen frowned and said, "There's no room for discussion?"

Elder Xuan did not speak again, but simply looked at him calmly.

After pondering for a moment, Jing Hongchen said, "What if I exchange it for something of equal value?"

When Jing Hongchen couldn't see, Elder Xuan's eyes darted around, and finally a cunning look appeared in his aged eyes as he said, "I said that I left that sword behind to study Xiao Tao's mutated martial soul. Actually, it's not impossible to exchange it back. It all depends on your sincerity."

Jing Hongchen seemed to have some reservations, and said in a deep voice, "Could you let me see that student from your academy?"

This time, it was Elder Xuan's turn to hesitate. After all, Shen Yumo had cured Ma Xiaotao. If he were to witness this, wouldn't that give him even more reason to return?

Just then, Old Master Mu's voice came out, "Okay, bring him to the second floor."

Upon hearing this voice, Jing Hongchen's expression immediately turned stern, and he quickly stood up.

Although he did not appear with the Body Sect earlier, he clearly saw the battle between Elder Xuan and Poison Undying from afar, as well as the situation where Poison Undying was intimidated by the golden light in Shrek Academy.

Although Jing Hongchen's cultivation level hadn't reached that of a Super Douluo, his insight was extremely sharp. He immediately realized that the outside world's perception of Shrek Academy had been wrong. The strongest person at Shrek Academy wasn't the Gluttonous Douluo Xuan Lao, but someone else entirely. And that person was someone even the sect leader of the original story, Du Busi, had to give way to—what kind of strength was that? Therefore, he secretly infiltrated Shrek Academy after the people from the original story's sect had left, rather than appearing openly like the original sect leader.

Mingde Hall Master Jing Hongchen said in a deep voice, "Elder Xuan, and this unknown senior, have at least three trigger-activated level nine soul tools on me. If I am attacked, the power of these three level nine soul tools is enough to raze the entire Shrek City to the ground. And no force can stop it."

In terms of age, he was about the same as Yan Shaozhe, so it was normal for him to address Elder Xuan and Elder Mu as seniors. His revealing of his abilities at this moment was clearly a sign of weakness.

This is Shrek Academy, and as far as Jing Hongchen knows, there are probably more than five Super Douluos here. No matter how powerful his soul tool is, his cultivation level is only ninety-three. In close combat, he has no chance against so many Super Douluos. However, he has indeed come prepared, and he believes that Shrek Academy won't actually attack him. That wouldn't be in accordance with Shrek Academy's consistent principles.

Elder Mu said calmly, "Once you enter my Sea God Pavilion, you are a guest. If I really wanted to harm you, your so-called level nine soul tool might not be able to unleash its power."

Jing Hongchen did not refute, but instead showed a hint of relief, chuckled and said, "I am deeply honored to be a guest of the Sea God Pavilion."

Led by Elder Xuan, he quickly arrived at the second floor.

……

In a hidden little room on the second floor.

Shen Yumo and Ma Xiaotao sat there in silence. Her eyes flickered, her clothes were disheveled, and her beautiful eyes held a complex expression. Sitting next to her was Shen Yumo.

A clear red handprint was imprinted on his handsome face, and his eyes were dull and lifeless.

It's hard to be a good person! It's even harder to be a man!

After this happened, shouldn't I be the one who suffered a loss? I not only cured her of the evil energy, but also successfully helped her purify it into the ultimate fire. Yet, for all of this, I lost my most precious thing and even got slapped. It's utterly shameful for a man...

How could I possibly face the Ice and Snow Emperors, Jiang Nannan and Meng Hongchen?

too difficult……

For a moment, Shen Yumo sighed with melancholy; it was simply asking the impossible...

When Ma Xiaotao heard those helpless sighs, she felt a pang of guilt, but thinking back to the scenes that had unfolded before her, she didn't know what to do.

He opened his mouth to comfort Shen Yumo, but then fell completely silent because of this incident, and the room was filled with an awkward silence...

……

Jing Hongchen's attention was completely drawn to Elder Mu. Elder Mu's aged face showed signs of his declining years, and he exuded no powerful aura whatsoever. However, Jing Hongchen was absolutely certain that it was this old man who had previously frightened away the sect leader! This old man's strength and cultivation were not something that could be discerned by mere sight. He never expected that there would be such a powerful figure in Shrek Academy. He increasingly felt that his caution was justified.

"Hello, may I ask your honorable name, senior?" Jing Hongchen bowed slightly and greeted Elder Mu.

Old Master Mu smiled slightly and said, "My name is Mu En, and I believe there are not many people in this world who still remember my name."

Upon hearing Elder Mu's name, Jing Hongchen's face indeed showed complete bewilderment. In his memory, and in his investigation of Shrek Academy, there was indeed no record of this name. But the more bewildered he was, the stronger his wariness of Elder Mu became.

Elder Mu said to Elder Xuan, "Xuanzi, why don't you take him to check on Xiao Tao's condition? Yu Mo should be there watching over her."

Upon hearing the name Yu Mo, a ripple appeared in Jing Hongchen's eyes.

A level 50 Soul King! His Martial Soul is unknown, his fifth Soul Ring has a lifespan of 100,000 years, and his Soul Skill is a domain-type Soul Skill that is almost like a divine skill!

He displayed an unstoppable aura in the competition, which made people feel fear. In the final battle, he showed ruthlessness by destroying his own soul bone. Who else at this age could do such a thing?

Elder Xuan glanced at Elder Mu, who showed a thoughtful expression before nodding.

"Let me make this clear first. It was my disciple Shen Yumo who went through tremendous effort and risked his own life to save Ma Xiaotao from danger. If you want that knife, it depends on your sincerity. Also, you don't need to worry about her anymore; she's fine now." Elder Xuan stopped walking, his eyes turning cold, but he was already thinking about how to extort her.

When it comes to extortion, Mu En is undoubtedly more cunning. To be honest, Mu En had long had his eye on the soul tool that Jing Hongchen carried.

……

Chapter 214 Exchange Student News

When it comes to extortion, Mu En is undoubtedly more cunning. To be honest, Mu En had long had his eye on the soul tool that Jing Hongchen carried.

As soon as Elder Xuan finished speaking, the surrounding golden light vanished silently, and the protective barrier returned to normal. Elder Mu's golden body flickered and disappeared into thin air. Of course, he wouldn't explain to Jing Hongchen where this miraculous external avatar came from.

Returning to the second floor, Jing Hongchen's eyes had lost much of their brilliance; he felt a heavy weight in his heart. He had always believed that, with his soul tool, he possessed the strength to rival Shrek Academy. But after meeting Elder Mu, he realized that, at least for now, the Sun Moon Empire still lacked in terms of top-tier strength.

Most importantly, he actually had the possibility of redeeming his masterpiece, but he knew it would not be that easy. At the same time, his fear of Shen Yumo grew stronger.

Even a Title Douluo couldn't resolve the evil energy, but Shen Yumo, as a Soul King, had a solution, which once again demonstrated his special qualities!

This person will surely become a formidable enemy in the future!

The two returned to the starting point on the second floor. Elder Mu lay there, unchanged from before, still emitting no powerful aura. Yet, his quiet presence exerted immense pressure on Jing Hongchen, causing fine beads of sweat to appear on the Mingde Hall Master's forehead. Only after seeing Elder Mu did he understand why the Body Sect had left so readily.

It was at this moment that Elder Mu asked a question that was particularly profound.

Elder Mu said calmly, "Could you tell me, in your opinion, which is better, Mingde Hall or Sea God Pavilion?"

Jing Hongchen was slightly taken aback. Elder Mu's question seemed vague, but he immediately understood what Elder Mu meant. Elder Mu was asking him about the advantages and disadvantages between Soul Masters and Soul Instructors, as well as the comparison between Mingde Hall and Shrek Academy.

After a brief moment of consideration, Jing Hongchen said, "Since I don't fully understand the Sea God Pavilion, I dare not make any rash comments. How about we assume that Elder Xuan and I are the victors? Within a hundred meters, Elder Xuan will surely win. But I have the ability to perish together with Elder Xuan. If the distance increases to a thousand meters, I can protect myself and leave. If it's ten thousand meters, I'm confident that I can win the contest as long as Elder Xuan doesn't actively leave the battlefield. If it were a war, our side would surely win."

When she finished speaking, Jing Hongchen's tone was firm, resolute, and unwavering. Even Elder Mu was slightly moved.

"It seems you're very confident," Old Mu smiled slightly.

Jing Hongchen smiled bitterly, "Actually, you should be able to see that I have no confidence at all. In a war, the advantage of soul tools is undeniable. But in a contest of high-end combat power, Shrek Academy's position on the continent is unshakeable. Neither our Mingde Hall nor our Benzuo Sect can shake it."

Elder Mu glanced at him, clearly understanding the meaning behind his words: Mingde Hall is no good, Benshi Sect is no good, so what if Mingde Hall were combined with Benshi Sect?

"Jing Hongchen, I once visited your Mingde Hall. Your development in soul tools has indeed exceeded my expectations. I agree with you on one point: when soul tools no longer rely on the soul power of soul masters, then the profession of soul master will inevitably be replaced, just as soul tools replaced the hidden weapons of the Tang Sect. However, I must add something for you. Even if that day truly comes, the strongest will still be the soul master. Because only a powerful soul master can unleash the full power of a more powerful soul tool. Do you agree?"

Jing Hongchen nodded and said, "Yes, you're right. The stronger the individual's ability, the higher their limit when using a soul tool."

"At least for now, apart from fixed-installation soul tools, we haven't developed a sufficiently powerful soul tool that doesn't require a soul master's power. I can't predict future developments. But the rise of soul masters is inevitable, just like how soul tools replaced cold weapons." His words were earnest, but inwardly he was filled with doubt and uncertainty. Elder Mu had been to Mingde Hall? If such an unpredictable and powerful expert were to…" Cold sweat dripped down his back.

Elder Mu smiled slightly and said, "You can take the Sword of Judgment, but you'll have to exchange it for something. Also, if there's a next time you use a soul tool on Shrek City outside Shrek Academy, then I'll pay another visit to the capital of your Sun Moon Empire."

Jing Hongchen's expression finally changed. Why had he dared to enter Shrek Academy so confidently? It wasn't just because of the few triggerable level nine soul tools he possessed, but also because of his arrangements outside. He hadn't expected that Elder Mu already knew all of this. Recalling Elder Mu's recent display of his avatar, for the first time since becoming the Master of Mingde Hall, he felt fear.

"Elder Mu, you are truly awe-inspiring." Bowing slightly, Jing Hongchen tried his best to suppress his inner shock. "I have another reason for coming here today. Several months ago, Shrek Academy sent a letter to our academy regarding the proposed student exchange, but for some reason it has been shelved. Both our Sun Moon Royal Soul Master Academy and Shrek Academy are top academies on the continent today. I believe this exchange is very necessary and can greatly promote mutual understanding and learning between the two sides."

Elder Mu said calmly, "Exchange and learning are fine. But can you guarantee the safety of my students? And what will our Shrek disciples learn when they arrive at your esteemed academy?"

Jing Hongchen seemed to have anticipated this question and answered without hesitation, "Safety and advancement are guaranteed. I assure you with the honor of Mingde Hall. During their studies at my Sun Moon Royal Soul Master Academy, your students will receive the best guidance. If they are capable enough, they may even be admitted to my Mingde Hall."

Old Master Mu said, "Words are no proof."

Jing Hongchen said, "If you are still not at ease, you can send a teacher from Shrek Academy to accompany you. You can send several."

Elder Mu shook his head and said, "That won't be necessary. Exchange and learning are fine. You send Xiao Hongchen from your academy to Shrek Academy. Then pick up the disciples we sent. I can guarantee that they will be able to study in our inner academy. After the exchange and learning period is over, you will personally send our students back and then pick up your students."

Jing Hongchen immediately shook his head and said, "That's probably not appropriate. Although I trust your character, senior, it's best to be cautious first. What if Shrek..."

Both sides smiled helplessly at this point, as neither dared to give their trust.