DD Black White [191-200] (Patreon)

Chapter 191: Qian Renxue

News that Skywater Academy lost a Soul Sage in the new contamination zone spread like wildfire throughout Heaven Dou City—a bombshell.

This was intentional on Feng Ying's part.

He hoped to attract more powerful soul masters to the contamination zone—only then might there be a chance to rescue Shui Ming'er, if she was still alive.

Though he knew this hope was slim, at the very least, they could avenge her.

On the top floor of a large, three-story restaurant, a handsome blond youth stood by the window, calmly watching the busy street below.

He exuded natural elegance and nobility in every movement.

Beside him stood a thin, middle-aged man in golden armor, asking in a deep voice, "Young master, should I go clear out that contamination zone? Such a special contamination zone might produce rare treasures."

This blond youth was Xue Qinghe, crown prince of the Heaven Dou Empire—Qian Renxue in disguise.

She shook her head slightly. "No need, Uncle She. You're not suited for this. Others will handle it—we'll just watch."

She wasn't interested in any treasures that might show up after clearing the contamination zone.

As both crown prince and heir to Spirit Hall, she'd seen all kinds of treasures; such things held little appeal.

"Hmm?" Suddenly, Xue Qinghe's gaze caught sight of a passing figure on the street, and a trace of surprise flashed in her eyes.

"Young master, what is it?" The slightly chubby, Porcupine Douluo, Ci Xue, asked.

Xue Qinghe's face showed interest. "I saw an intriguing person. Uncle Ci Xue, please invite him over—and be polite."

She was clearly more interested in the person than the contamination zone.

"Understood!"

Porcupine Douluo instantly locked onto the person with his Titled Douluo-level spiritual power and vanished in a blur.

…

Lu Jingming sensed a powerful gaze locking onto him and instinctively turned to the restaurant he'd just passed.

He was used to being stared at because of his looks and aura, but this was different—he was being targeted by spiritual pressure.

"A Titled Douluo!" Lu Jingming immediately recognized the strength of this spiritual power.

There were only a handful of Titled Douluos in Heaven Dou City—Poison Douluo, Sword Douluo, Bone Douluo, maybe Clear Sky Douluo. Who was interested in a mere Soul Emperor like him?

"Young man, my young master would like to see you. Please come with me."

Seeing the Porcupine Douluo block his way, Lu Jingming realized—he'd forgotten about the two hidden Titled Douluos in Heaven Dou City, and this was one of them.

"What if I say no?" Lu Jingming tilted his head, a faintly amused and provocative look in his eyes.

Porcupine Douluo regarded him with surprise. He'd deliberately released some soul power to intimidate, but it seemed to have no effect.

Looking carefully, Porcupine Douluo understood why his young master was so interested in this ordinary white-haired youth.

It wasn't only Lu Jingming's extraordinary looks—his noble, confident bearing and inner pride were on par with Xue Qinghe.

That was rare, considering his young master's background as both Spirit Hall heir and imperial crown prince.

"If that's the case, you'll have to forgive my rudeness," Porcupine Douluo said. If not for Xue Qinghe's explicit instructions, he would've just seized Lu Jingming.

Since Lu Jingming refused, he'd have to use force.

"Interesting—let's go." Just as Porcupine Douluo was about to act, Lu Jingming suddenly smiled and agreed, nearly making the Douluo stumble.

"Good kid, follow me!" Porcupine Douluo twitched but wasn't angry. After all, this was someone his young master was interested in.

Lu Jingming followed, eyes narrowed in curiosity.

Meeting the future Angel God, Qian Renxue, wasn't a bad idea—it might be entertaining.

They crossed the bustling street, entered the three-story restaurant, and went to the luxurious top-floor suite.

As soon as he entered, Lu Jingming saw Xue Qinghe—elegant, noble, yet gentle.

Looking at Xue Qinghe, Lu Jingming marveled inwardly: hard to believe under this male disguise was a stunning beauty.

Qian Renxue was a prodigy—able to hide for years as Xue Qinghe, with wisdom and patience. But at crucial moments, she always seemed to make mistakes.

Spirit Hall's downfall was largely due to Qian Renxue's love-stricken nature and occasional lapses in judgment.

With nearly twenty Titled Douluos and seventy percent of the continent's ten thousand soul masters, Spirit Hall was overwhelmingly powerful.

Yet, because they played it too safe, they let their enemies grow—and ultimately lost.

Lu Jingming knew that Spirit Hall, with its power and prestige among commoners, was truly the uncrowned king of the Douluo Continent.

Yet such a mighty force ultimately fell.

If anyone else had led Spirit Hall, victory would have been almost certain. But, unfortunately, two love-struck women ended up in charge.

"This young man, forgive me for the sudden invitation. I just saw you in passing, and your extraordinary presence made me want to make your acquaintance."

Xue Qinghe smiled, stood, and gestured politely.

Lu Jingming knew this was just a facade; the real Qian Renxue was cold and aloof.

"So it's the Crown Prince. May I ask why you wanted to see me?" Lu Jingming sat down without ceremony, picked up a cup of tea, and took a sip.

He'd seen Xue Qinghe brew it himself—why not enjoy it? He wasn't afraid of poison.

Seeing this, a glint flashed in Xue Qinghe's eyes. "Don't misunderstand. Since you know my identity, you must know I enjoy meeting talented people. At a glance, I could see you are exceptional—I'd like to make friends. May I ask where you're from?"

Xue Qinghe wasn't surprised Lu Jingming knew his identity—he was famous in Heaven Dou City and throughout the continent.

"So, you're recruiting me? But I'm from the Star Luo Empire!" Lu Jingming teased, bored and looking for fun.

He wasn't lying; in the parallel world, he would indeed be from the Star Luo Empire.

Xue Qinghe froze, not expecting such a direct answer, nor that Lu Jingming would declare himself from a rival nation.

Knowing Lu Jingming wasn't lying only made him more interesting.

Everyone knew Heaven Dou and Star Luo Empires were rivals, often at war if not for Spirit Hall's mediation.

Yet, Lu Jingming was more composed than the prince himself—Xue Qinghe didn't believe that was mere arrogance.

He was sure Lu Jingming wasn't stupid—no idiot could have that aura. His curiosity only deepened.

"I've told you my identity, but may I ask your name? You look young—no elders with you?"

Xue Qinghe began to probe.

With Porcupine Douluo and Snake Lance Douluo at hand, she was sure there were no other strong backers nearby.

Chapter 192: Princess Xue Ke

"My surname is Lu, given name Jingming. As for elders, I'm confident enough in my own strength."

Lu Jingming smiled, making a casual gesture as if holding the universe at his fingertips.

Xue Qinghe was briefly taken aback, then chuckled.

Given Lu Jingming's age, probably not yet an adult, how strong could he really be?

But the aura couldn't be faked, and his clothes and storage soul guide were all of the highest quality—on par with royal standards.

Yet, the surname Lu... Xue Qinghe searched his memory but couldn't recall any major family named Lu in the Star Luo Empire.

He guessed Lu Jingming must be from some hidden Sect or sect—a common occurrence on the vast continent.

After a brief but deep conversation, Xue Qinghe confirmed Lu Jingming was traveling alone, with no guards.

From his speech and knowledge—even of secrets known only to top forces—Xue Qinghe was convinced Lu Jingming had a powerful, ancient background.

For example, when Xue Qinghe mentioned an obscure topic only top powers would know, Lu Jingming responded fluently.

That alone proved Lu Jingming's extraordinary upbringing—almost certainly from a hidden Sect in the Star Luo Empire.

Of course, with Spirit Hall behind him, Xue Qinghe didn't think anyone could surpass his own backing.

But that didn't stop him from wanting to win Lu Jingming over—having another potential ally was always good.

Especially after Porcupine Douluo reported that Lu Jingming shrugged off his soul power pressure.

Even if it wasn't full strength, a Titled Douluo's pressure was not something an ordinary youth could ignore.

For Lu Jingming to do so at such a young age showed his confidence had solid backing.

As they chatted over tea, the door was gently knocked.

"Come in!" Xue Qinghe frowned, then quickly regained his gentle demeanor.

A girl with short golden hair entered—the epitome of youthful beauty.

She blurted, "Big brother Crown Prince, I heard there's a contamination zone outside the city, and lots of people are going. I want to go too!"

But when she spotted Lu Jingming, she paused, then blushed, quickly saying, "Sorry, I didn't know you had a guest."

"It's fine, little sister. This is Lu Jingming, my friend—not an outsider," Xue Qinghe said, skillfully closing the distance.

Though they'd just met, he made it sound like they were old friends.

"Mr. Lu, I was rude just now!" Xue Ke recalled her behavior and blushed deeper.

She had been trained in royal etiquette and now greeted Lu Jingming with elegant manners.

"No problem, Your Highness. Your straightforwardness is refreshing," Lu Jingming replied.

He knew Princess Xue Ke was beloved in Heaven Dou Empire—even Qian Renxue, disguised as Xue Qinghe, treated her as a real sister.

He was curious how Xue Ke would react if she ever learned Xue Qinghe's true identity.

Of course, he wouldn't stir up trouble just for fun.

"Since you're my brother's friend, there's no need for formality—just call me Xue Ke," she said sweetly.

Xue Qinghe was surprised—Xue Ke was spoiled by the emperor and could be willful. Few people got special treatment from her.

But seeing Lu Jingming's looks, he understood—even he'd been stunned at first sight.

Xue Ke wasn't just a superficial admirer of beauty, but with Lu Jingming's status and looks, it made sense.

"What have you heard, little sister?" Xue Qinghe asked.

"I heard Skywater Academy lost a Soul Sage in the contamination zone, and the Royal Academy's three deans are involved. Even Ning Sect Master is interested. That's why I wanted to see for myself—I've never seen a contamination zone."

Xue Ke clung to Xue Qinghe's arm, acting cute, making him helpless.

"Since even my teacher is going, let's go have a look. Lu Jingming, would you like to join us?"

"Of course—how could I miss such excitement?" Lu Jingming replied.

He knew things would only get more interesting at the contamination zone.

"Alright, let's go find teacher. Contamination zones can be very dangerous; we must be careful," Xue Qinghe said with a smile.

He knew Porcupine Douluo and Snake Lance Douluo couldn't act openly, or else risk exposing themselves.

It was safer to stick with the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect group, protected by Sword Douluo and Bone Douluo.

Soon, Xue Qinghe led Lu Jingming and Xue Ke to Ning Fengzhi, who was about to set out with the Sword and Bone Douluos.

Porcupine Douluo and Snake Lance Douluo didn't follow—they couldn't hide from Sword and Bone Douluo.

Xue Qinghe explained his intention to join, and Ning Fengzhi readily agreed. "Very well, let's go together."

Ning Fengzhi was satisfied with Xue Qinghe as a student.

He'd taken him in as a long-term investment—if Xue Qinghe became emperor, the sect would reap immense rewards.

Originally, he hadn't wanted to get too involved with the empire, but the Clear Sky Sect's actions had forced him to bind the sect more closely to the empire to resist Spirit Hall.

When the previous Spirit Hall Pope was killed by Clear Sky Douluo, Spirit Hall retaliated.

The three great Sects—the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect, Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Sect, and Clear Sky Sect—formed an alliance.

But at the last minute, Clear Sky Sect backed out, closing its doors and abandoning its allies.

This left the other two to face Spirit Hall alone.

Thus, Ning Fengzhi had no choice but to take on Xue Qinghe as a disciple, deepening ties with the empire.

Lu Jingming looked at Ning Fengzhi, the elegant, white-robed man, with a hint of irony.

Ning Fengzhi's luck was truly poor—first betrayed by Clear Sky, then mistaking Xue Qinghe's identity.

The sect pinned all its hopes on Xue Qinghe, never knowing he was actually Qian Renxue.

Ning Fengzhi's judgment was questionable—trusting Clear Sky, taking in Xue Qinghe, later siding with Tang San—each decision seemed flawed.

In the end, the sect paid a heavy price: Sword and Bone Douluo died, and the sect was decimated.

Even a thousand years later, the sect was little more than a footnote—its only legacy was Ning Rongrong becoming a god, but the Nine Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda's line was lost.

And gods couldn't intervene in the mortal realm, so Ning Rongrong's ascension brought no real benefit.

After their investment in Xue Qinghe, the eventual emperor Xue Beng had no reason to favor the sect.

In short, every choice the sect made was a net loss—Ning Fengzhi's judgment was truly questionable.

Despite their early advantage, losing Sword and Bone Douluo left them weak in a strength-based world.

As for hoping Tang San would repay them—he didn't even care about his own Tang Sect legacy, let alone the sect's fate.

In fact, the secret inheritance was left in the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well's immortal herbs—and Lu Jingming now had those records, though he wasn't interested.

Chapter 193: Jingliu Fandom

"Boy, you practice swordsmanship—who is your teacher??"

Though Ning Fengzhi was a bit curious about Lu Jingming, whom Xue Qinghe had brought along, he merely glanced at him with mild interest. Xue Qinghe had always had a habit of gathering and cultivating talent, so Ning Fengzhi only marveled at Lu Jingming's appearance and paid him no further attention.

However, Sword Douluo frowned deeply, his gaze fixed intently on Lu Jingming.

He sensed a sword intent from Lu Jingming that felt eerily familiar. He was certain Lu Jingming not only practiced swordsmanship but had achieved a significant level of mastery.

To produce such a young sword expert, his teacher must surely be a peerless master of swordsmanship. Sword Douluo already had a suspect in mind.

Upon hearing Sword Douluo's inquiry, both Xue Qinghe and Ning Fengzhi looked surprised, their attention turning curiously to Lu Jingming.

For Sword Douluo to show such interest, Lu Jingming was clearly not ordinary.

"As expected of Sword Douluo—indeed, I do practice swordsmanship. As for my teacher, her title is Snow Moon."

Lu Jingming made no attempt to hide anything. In this world, he had nothing to fear, and no need to conceal.

As soon as he spoke, Sword Douluo's body trembled violently. In an instant, he appeared before Lu Jingming, excitedly asking: "Boy, quickly tell me, where is your teacher now?"

Upon hearing "Snow Moon," Xue Qinghe's eyes filled with confusion, while Ning Fengzhi and Bone Douluo looked at Lu Jingming in disbelief.

Sword Douluo's hunch had come true—there really was a Douluo titled Snow Moon? How had they never heard of her?

Though the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect's intelligence network couldn't cover the entire continent, they had many informants in the Heaven Dou and Star Luo Empires.

Yet, they'd never received a single report about a Snow Moon Douluo, rumored to be even stronger than Sword Douluo himself.

Titled Douluos were as rare as phoenix feathers and unicorn horns; how could such a strong figure leave no trace?

"My teacher—you'll meet her sooner or later, but not now." Lu Jingming gently shook his head.

Jingliu would not be entering this world for a while, but as long as Sword Douluo didn't die unexpectedly, they were bound to meet someday.

"True enough." Sword Douluo nodded, a bit dejected.

He had always considered himself the continent's top swordsman, and had never heard of such a master before his encounter in the simulated universe. Only then did he realize there were always greater heights to reach.

A reclusive figure like Snow Moon Douluo was certainly not someone one could just meet at will.

Sword Douluo didn't doubt Lu Jingming's words. Not only had he named Snow Moon Douluo's title, but the sword intent he carried was unmistakable.

Though the sword intent differed from Snow Moon's, it was clearly of the same lineage.

As the owner of the Seven Kill Sword intent, Sword Douluo could sense this unique resonance between sword practitioners.

Having confirmed Lu Jingming's identity, the gazes of Ning Fengzhi and the others changed instantly.

Compared to being just Xue Qinghe's friend, they now regarded Lu Jingming with much more warmth and interest.

After learning the details from Ning Fengzhi, Xue Qinghe looked at Lu Jingming with a mixture of amazement and doubt.

Even Spirit Hall had no intelligence on Snow Moon Douluo, and even her own grandfather had never mentioned her.

Lu Jingming found it amusing. He hadn't lied, but had intentionally left things vague, letting Sword Douluo and the others fill in the gaps themselves—it was rather entertaining.

With this new identity, he received very different treatment.

Learning that Lu Jingming was traveling alone, Ning Fengzhi even warmly invited him to visit the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect.

The group took the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect's carriage, heading toward the outskirts of Heaven Dou City.

Along the way, they saw many people heading in the same direction, toward a point of contamination outside the city.

It was clear that with the Soul Master Tournament drawing academies to Heaven Dou City, the contamination spot had attracted much attention, and many wanted to join the fun.

Danger wasn't a concern; after all, three deans from the Royal Academy were present, along with many strong soul masters, and even Poison Douluo was rumored to have arrived. With such a strong lineup, what could go wrong?

With a month to go before the Soul Master Tournament, most people were idle. Visiting the contamination spot was just for excitement; if lucky, they might even slay a negative-energy monster and gain a treasure.

In the carriage, Lu Jingming recognized many familiar faces along the way.

Of course, he knew them, but they didn't know him.

"Brother Lu, you seem interested in the Soul Master academies. If you like, I could arrange for you to enter the Heaven Dou Royal Academy, or even become a main member of this year's Heaven Dou Team, to compete in the tournament a month from now," offered Xue Qinghe with a smile, noticing Lu Jingming's attention on the passing academies.

"No need, Brother Xue. For me to compete in this year's tournament would be bullying," Lu Jingming replied, shaking his head with a smile.

At his Soul Emperor level, joining the tournament would just be one-sided domination, like playing a game on easy mode—no fun at all.

Unlike in his original world, where representing St. Freya Academy in the tournament brought benefits and prestige to Haiyuan City, here, even winning the championship and a few soul bones meant little to him.

Thus, he wasn't interested in the tournament here.

As for the change in how Xue Qinghe addressed him, that was at Xue Qinghe's own request. Upon learning Lu Jingming had a powerful Titled Douluo behind him, Xue Qinghe became even more eager to befriend him.

At this moment, only Lu Jingming, Xue Qinghe, and Xue Ke were in the carriage.

Ning Fengzhi and the others were in another carriage—six people in one would be too crowded, though this carriage was large enough.

Ning Fengzhi thought the younger generation had more to talk about and supported Xue Qinghe's efforts to befriend Lu Jingming.

Xue Qinghe was his disciple and the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect's investment target; naturally, he hoped Xue Qinghe could gain more support.

"Simulated universe, contamination spot, Snow Moon Douluo, Sword Uncle, Bone Uncle... This world is becoming more and more unfamiliar. What path should our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect take in the future?"

In front of Sword Douluo and Bone Douluo, Ning Fengzhi dropped his dignity as sect leader and revealed his vulnerability.

The pressure on him was immense.

Since Clear Sky sect withdrew from the alliance, the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect had suffered greatly under Spirit Hall's pressure.

Ning Fengzhi was capable, but even he was worn out.

The Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon sect faced similar struggles.

Despite having the world's strongest beast and support-type spirits, as upper-tier sects, only they knew how difficult their true situation was.

"Don't worry, Fengzhi—we're still here," said Sword Douluo and Bone Douluo, exchanging a glance and offering what comfort they could.

They could fight, but when it came to strategy and planning, that was up to Ning Fengzhi.

"Sigh, Spirit Hall... At least Rongrong's martial soul evolved, bringing renewed hope to our sect."

Just thinking about Spirit Hall gave Ning Fengzhi a headache.

As a top power, he didn't know Spirit Hall's full strength, but even the tip of the iceberg was terrifying enough.

His only comfort was that Ning Rongrong's martial soul had evolved into the Nine Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda, breaking the old limit.

Even at Soul Sage rank, the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda could elevate Sword Douluo and Bone Douluo's power by a full level. If there was ever a Titled Douluo-level Nine Treasure Pagoda support, their strength would be unimaginable.

Martial Souls could be passed down by bloodline.

If Ning Rongrong could pass her bloodline on, the Nine Treasure Pagoda would one day fully replace the Seven Treasure Pagoda, raising the world's top support martial soul to new heights.

Thinking of this bright future, Ning Fengzhi felt his blood surge, and the pressure eased a bit.

"Speaking of which, this young Lu looks about Rongrong's age. I wonder how strong he actually is?" Ning Fengzhi mused aloud, as he was only a Soul Sage himself and couldn't gauge Lu Jingming's depth.

Bone Douluo frowned. "That kid is strange. Even with my cultivation, I can't see through him."

Sword Douluo said gravely, "I can't judge his specific level, but he's definitely a monstrous talent. As Snow Moon Douluo's disciple, and having grasped sword intent, I doubt any peer can match him."

Sword Douluo already revered Jingliu, becoming a Jingliu fan himself. Though he couldn't see through Lu Jingming's hidden cultivation, just knowing he was Jingliu's disciple convinced him Lu Jingming was no weakling, especially with sword intent.

That was the only clear advantage Sword Douluo could sense.

"Oh, Sword Uncle, how does he compare to the Shrek Academy's little monsters?" Ning Fengzhi asked, perking up.

After all, with the immortal herbs, the Shrek Seven Devils were undisputed geniuses of their age.

"At their current level, there's no contest—sword intent is on another plane," Sword Douluo shook his head.

Sword intent, once appearing at the early stages, was a dimensional blow to soul masters of the same level.

Even at his own level, using sword intent made a huge difference—let alone below Soul Sage.

"Looks like Rongrong and the others finally have a worthy opponent, but it's a pity Lu won't compete," Ning Fengzhi smiled, shaking his head.

"Speaking of Rongrong, Shrek Academy seems to be here too," Bone Douluo suddenly said, glancing out the window at a group also heading out of the city.

Chapter 194: Black Angel and Black March 7th

"Dean Flender, are we really going to join the fun? I heard this contamination spot is dangerous—didn't Skywater Academy lose a Soul Sage there?" Oscar asked nervously.

As a food-type soul master, he had no combat power and felt uneasy about going somewhere so dangerous.

"What's there to fear, Little Ao? So many people are going, and Teacher Erlong is with us," Dai Mubai laughed, patting Oscar's shoulder.

"Boss Dai, I'm not scared, just worried something might happen before the tournament," Oscar quickly retorted, catching Ning Rongrong's gaze. He didn't want to be seen as a coward.

"Mubai's right. Unless we run into a Titled Douluo, there's nothing to be afraid of with your Teacher Erlong here," said a voluptuous, Erlong, also patting Oscar's shoulder.

With the Golden Iron Triangle together, even a Titled Douluo wasn't impossible to handle.

"Hey, that's the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect's carriage—my father and the others!" Ning Rongrong suddenly spotted two carriages in the distance, her eyes lighting up with delight.

The carriages approached.

"Rongrong!"

"Father, Grandpa Sword, Grandpa Bone, you're all here!" Ning Rongrong cheered, flying into Ning Fengzhi's embrace.

"sect leader Ning, it's been a while," Yu Xiaogang and the others greeted Ning Fengzhi respectfully.

The carriages stopped. Hearing the commotion, Xue Qinghe opened the door and stepped out calmly.

"Rongrong, long time no see."

"Brother Xue, you're here too!" Ning Rongrong was surprised.

"My little sister wanted to see the excitement, same as you," Xue Qinghe explained with a smile.

"Xue Ke is here too?" Ning Rongrong looked toward the carriage. As the sect's beloved princess, she knew Xue Qinghe and was familiar with Xue Ke, though their personalities were too different to be close.

"It's you!" But when she saw Lu Jingming get off with Xue Ke, her eyes widened in shock.

Her exclamation drew everyone's attention.

They followed her gaze to Lu Jingming. Ma Hongjun and Oscar reacted the same, all looking stunned.

"What, you all know Brother Lu?" Xue Qinghe asked in surprise.

"I'm curious too—how do you all know me?" Lu Jingming feigned confusion.

He knew exactly how they knew him, but what did a virtual body in the simulated universe have to do with him? He had no intention of revealing his smurfing activities.

"This…" Ning Rongrong and the others were momentarily speechless, looking at Lu Jingming with mixed feelings.

Especially Yu Xiaogang, whose face turned pale as paper, looking like his worldview had shattered.

He had once convinced himself Lu Jingming only existed in the simulated universe, but now the real person was in front of him—meaning his cherished theories were about to be challenged.

With Xue Qinghe and Ning Fengzhi watching curiously, Ning Rongrong explained everything that happened in the simulated universe.

When they heard how Lu Jingming's avatar had single-handedly defeated the Shrek Seven Devils, and had an abnormal soul ring configuration, Ning Fengzhi and the others looked at him in shock.

"Heh, looks like we're destined to meet," Lu Jingming chuckled, also sensing a hostile gaze.

He looked over to see Tang San staring at him, clearly still upset about what happened in the simulated universe.

Lu Jingming twitched—this guy really liked to hold grudges.

It was just an avatar in a simulation! And to them, it shouldn't have anything to do with the real him.

Dai Mubai, Zhu Zhuqing, and even Xiao Wu had no hostility—only Tang San was different.

Tang San's personality really was vindictive.

Not only Lu Jingming noticed, but also Sword Douluo, Xue Qinghe, and the others.

Thinking of what Ning Rongrong had just said, they were speechless. Wasn't this a bit petty?

Ning Fengzhi frowned as well—he hadn't expected Tang San to be so narrow-minded.

If it weren't for Tang San's immortal herb gift that evolved Ning Rongrong's martial soul, he'd want her to stay away from Tang San.

Now, he hesitated about investing further in Tang San. Could his sect really benefit from someone like this?

Realizing everyone's gaze, Tang San quickly reined in his hostility and stopped looking at Lu Jingming.

Aside from the more sensitive few, others didn't notice the awkwardness.

Ning Rongrong went up to Lu Jingming, asking curiously, "Lu Jingming, is your soul ring configuration really the same as in the simulated universe?"

"The simulation creates data avatars based on the real person—what do you think?" Lu Jingming replied with a question.

"So it's true! How did you do it?" Ning Rongrong pressed.

Even with immortal herbs, none of them could match the ridiculous configuration he had.

Tang San's fourth ring was already miraculous at ten-thousand-year level, but Lu Jingming's avatar had two purple and one black.

"Rongrong!" Ning Fengzhi frowned, his tone stern.

Such things were core secrets, not to be casually asked.

"It's simple: just have a strong enough body and spirit," Lu Jingming replied easily.

Ning Rongrong rolled her eyes—that was no different from saying nothing. Everyone knew you needed strength and spirit to absorb soul rings.

She didn't pursue it further.

With Ning Rongrong's presence, Shrek Academy joined the group.

Given how much Ning Fengzhi, Sword Douluo, and Bone Douluo doted on her, they wouldn't let her out of sight in a dangerous place.

Shrek had too many people for the carriage, but soul masters could travel as fast as carriages anyway.

Soon, the group left the city and entered the wilds, where the trees grew thick and lush.

In the wild, the carriages couldn't continue, so everyone walked.

As they approached the target valley, a chilling, evil aura swept over them, making everyone shudder.

Arriving at the valley, shrouded in black mist, most were left speechless.

"So this is a contamination spot? Looks terrifying!" Ning Rongrong instinctively moved closer to Sword Douluo and Bone Douluo, feeling safest beside the two Titled Douluo.

"Something's not right!" Ning Fengzhi frowned. The sect had cleared contamination spots before, but none had ever felt this terrifying—not even those with a wider area or stronger monsters.

"How could this be? It wasn't like this when we left!" Not far away, Shui Bing'er and the Skywater group stared in shock—the contamination area had doubled in size in less than two days.

Something was very wrong; the spread was abnormal, unlike any other contamination spot.

"Whatever the cause, we must investigate—this valley is too close to Heaven Dou City," said Meng Shenji, the Royal Academy's dean, gravely.

"With Poison Douluo here, no monster can make trouble," said Bai Baoshan, the second dean, glancing at the white-haired old man escorted by a green-eyed, purple-haired girl.

Dugu Bo ignored the deans and turned to his granddaughter with a smile. "Little monster, I knew you wouldn't miss the excitement."

"You're no different, old monster," joked Tang San, stepping forward.

Many were shocked—Poison Douluo was notorious, yet here a Soul Ancestor joked with him as an equal.

The three deans looked grim. It was because of Dugu Bo that Tang San and the others left the academy.

Now, Dugu Bo's relationship with Tang San was even closer, while they looked like the villains.

"Your Highness, sect leader Ning—" the deans quickly greeted Xue Qinghe and Ning Fengzhi respectfully.

Although Ning Fengzhi wasn't as strong, his status was at least equal to a Titled Douluo, if not higher.

And Xue Qinghe was their rightful liege.

"Old poison, looks like your strength has grown!" Sword Douluo commented, noticing Dugu Bo's hair had turned from green to white, and his soul power was even stronger.

A group of notable figures now gathered to exchange greetings, while Feng Ying and Huo Lin from the other academies grew anxious but dared not interrupt.

They were desperate to find Shui Ming'er, but the valley looked like a devil's den, and they didn't dare rush in.

"Teacher, we must act quickly!" Xue Qinghe pointed to the rapidly withering plants.

The contamination area was expanding at a visible rate.

Staying in this zone, Xue Qinghe felt restless, almost compelled to release his spirit and purify everything.

But he knew he couldn't—making it hard to bear.

Others also noticed the alarming spread.

If left unchecked, in a few months, the contamination could reach Heaven Dou City.

If the capital fell, it would be catastrophic.

No one hesitated. They all released soul power for protection and entered the valley.

Xue Ke, though weak in battle, could use her soul power for resistance—as long as she avoided fighting, she'd last longer than those in the front lines.

Soon after entering, black-armored Golden Guards began to appear.

Most were weak and easily handled by academy students.

There were at least a hundred people present, the weakest being Soul Elders, so fighting these mindless creatures was no challenge.

The most aggressive were from Skywater, Blazing Fire, and God Wind academies, worried for their missing teammate.

Feng Ying and Huo Lin even joined in, eager to push forward.

As they pressed deeper, white-robed and black-robed figures appeared—ambush experts, causing some injuries among the unprepared.

Luckily, each academy had Soul Emperor or Soul Sage teachers, so there were no casualties yet.

Without the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect and Poison Douluo present, many would have already retreated.

After all, they were just here for excitement and possible loot.

Lu Jingming found the variety of monsters—black-armored soldiers, and others reminiscent of underworld spirits—rather amusing.

Suddenly, a strange but somewhat holy chant echoed out, and a massive angelic phantom appeared.

This angel was beautiful, but shrouded in black-red killing intent, the holy light forming a sharp Soul Douluost.

The paradoxical sight made everyone's pupils Soul Douluoct—someone exclaimed, "Angel Martial Soul!"

Xue Qinghe looked at the girl within the angelic light: golden armor, holy radiance, but blood-red eyes and a face covered in cracks—blonde, double-winged angel, likely from the angel legion.

She had two yellow, two purple, and one black ring—at about twenty years old, a Soul King. He couldn't recall such a person, especially from the angel clan.

But Lu Jingming recognized her instantly—wasn't that Yu Mengdi, now appearing as an elite monster!

A Soul King-level foe was too much for regular students. Huo Lin leapt forward, his Flame Lion martial soul roaring.

He punched, his fiery fist colliding with the angel's golden sword light in a deafening blast, the shockwave spreading.

Huo Lin held nothing back, his soul rings shining, his clawed hand piercing the angel's heart.

As the black mist dispersed, the angelic phantom collapsed.

Huo Lin now held a golden holy sword—a level-5 soul tool from Yu Mengdi's drop.

But at that moment, a black-red golden whirlwind roared in and trapped him.

On a nearby hill, a black-clad figure appeared—Hei Ye Wuqing, a Soul Emperor.

Feng Ying, surrounded by wind, drew his blade and launched a giant green wind slash at Hei Ye Wuqing.

"Brother, will Teacher Huo Lin be okay?" Huo Wu asked, worried, as she blasted an ambushing enemy.

The black whirlwind looked deadly—even Soul Sages would be hard pressed to survive.

"Roar, martial soul avatar!" Before Huo Wushuang could answer, Huo Lin roared—a giant flaming lion broke free from the whirlwind and attacked Hei Ye Wuqing.

Caught unprepared, Hei Ye Wuqing was engulfed in flame, leaving behind a glowing soul bone—a rare find.

Huo Lin, shocked at his luck, pocketed the soul bone. The find energized everyone—Soul Sages went wild seeking negative monsters, especially those above Soul King.

Among them were Flender and Zhao Wuji. Flender, especially, used his speed to grab the best loot, unchallenged due to his connections.

Liu Erlong stayed close to Yu Xiaogang, knowing his weakness.

Their aggressive hunt soon drew deeper threats.

A pink-haired girl appeared, six rings—two purple, three black, one red—and fired an icy blue arrow that exploded into a rain of ice.

A blizzard and hailstorm descended—most people panicked.

Even the strong struggled to shield their weaker comrades; some unlucky ones were frozen solid.

Chapter 195: Black Jinhsi

Booms echoed as the ice storm raged. The region was frozen over in seconds.

Academies suffered as even their strong struggled to defend.

Luckily, the attack was scattered, so only a few were frozen—fate unknown.

"A Soul Douluo-level skill from afar—could this be the core of the contamination spot?" Bai Baoshan shielded with his Sky Star Furnace, looking grave.

Such power from a distance meant the attacker was at least a Soul Douluo.

"That must be it—let's move quickly!" Meng Shenji decided, dark energy rising from his martial soul: Black Demon, a control martial soul.

But these mindless monsters couldn't be controlled, so he could only rely on raw power.

The three Royal Academy deans led the charge; the rest followed.

So far, none of the three Titled Douluo had acted, but with them present, everyone felt secure.

When Lu Jingming and the others reached the core, they found Meng Shenji and the others staring in shock.

They followed their gaze—and gasped.

The broad valley floor was filled with black-armored soldiers wielding soul tools, thousands at least, red eyes glowing in the gloom.

Even Dugu Bo frowned—if these were living people, he could slaughter them alone. But as negative-energy constructs, his poison was useless.

"Aunt?!" Shui Bing'er and the others soon spotted Shui Ming'er, encased in a black ice statue.

Her long blue hair had turned black; her eyes, once sapphire, were now voids.

Seven rings shone as she unleashed her martial soul avatar, transforming into a massive, black Phoenix.

Huo Lin and Feng Ying, restrained by emotion, were hard pressed against the merciless, blackened Shui Ming'er.

"Old monster, not joining in?" Tang San called, vines binding monsters.

"Fine, let's end this. Yan-yan, wait here—Grandpa's off to deal with the core monster, maybe grab a good drop."

Dugu Bo shot into the sky, his green aura clashing against a white-haired, twin-tailed girl—Black Jinhsi.

She radiated both holy gold and black mist, her six rings—two purple, three black, one red—shocking all.

"A hundred-thousand-year ring?!"

Even among the Titled Douluo present, none had such a ring.

"Die!" Furious, Dugu Bo unleashed his Titled Douluo power, the Jade Phosphor Serpent Emperor manifesting and blasting green light at Black Jinhsi.

She responded with the power of time—her attack instantly reached its peak.

Gold and green light clashed, turning the sky gold and green.

"They're evenly matched!" Ning Fengzhi and the others were shocked.

Dugu Bo, not a strong attacker among Titled Douluo, had recently broken through, but still—fighting a Soul Emperor to a standstill?

Lu Jingming alone understood—it was Jinhsi's time manipulation and ultimate light that made this possible.

Dugu Bo's poison was useless, and his attack power was weak. This outcome was expected.

Others, ignorant of "ultimate attributes," only saw a Soul Emperor fighting a Titled Douluo evenly.

Thus, they looked at Black Jinhsi with awe and fear, and at Dugu Bo oddly.

The energy clash cleared the black mist, sunlight revealing everything—including a black throne with a white-haired, handsome youth sitting atop.

He lounged with eyes closed, face on hand, utterly at ease and arrogant, undisturbed by all the commotion.

Below the throne stood several figures, each radiating power equal to Black Jinhsi.

"Brother Lu!" Xue Qinghe's pupils contracted, then he looked at Lu Jingming in shock.

"Eh!" Xue Ke exclaimed, eyes darting between Lu Jingming and the throne—apart from the facial cracks, they were identical!

"Interesting, isn't it?" Lu Jingming smiled.

"It seems this contamination spot's core is modeled after you!" Ning Fengzhi quickly regained his composure.

It was rare, but not impossible—after all, even a Sword Douluo-based monster had appeared before.

Still, Ning Fengzhi looked at Lu Jingming with deep suspicion.

If the monsters were modeled after him, just how strong was the real Lu Jingming?

Lu Jingming himself was curious—if the black version had all his abilities, he'd be a perfect final boss.

He could attack, defend, heal, and control—a true all-rounder.

Even Sword Douluo could hardly kill him for good, especially with allies like Black March 7th, Black Jinhsi, Black Firefly, and especially Black Robin.

He doubted this impromptu team could pass the dungeon.

Others noticed too, glancing nervously at Lu Jingming—the mysterious youth always with the prince and sect leader.

But there was no time to ponder.

Black March 7th, with the same six-ring configuration, condensed a chilling ice arrow and fired at Bai Baoshan.

The air froze, a blue light flashed, then the delayed sonic boom.

Bai Baoshan reacted instantly, shielding with the Sky Star Furnace.

But it was like an asteroid hit—the impact hurled him into a cliff, and icy cold swept over, freezing him solid.

Meng Shenji and Zhi Lin, feeling the chill, turned and saw Bai Baoshan encased in a mountain of ice.

Everyone swallowed hard in fear.

Some instinctively shielded their teammates; some even turned to flee—they'd only come for loot, not to die.

"Sect leader Ning, please help!" Meng Shenji called in panic.

"Teacher!" Xue Qinghe's face darkened—he couldn't afford to lose his top aides.

Just then, a silver-haired girl, wrapped in black-red flames, appeared in midair.

She was encased in a fiery mecha, six rings shining.

"Bone Uncle!" Ning Fengzhi paled—if another dean died, relations with the empire would suffer.

With a thunderous roar, Bone Douluo intercepted, bone shield clashing with flaming fist, a shockwave surging out.

Bone Douluo was left with a burn on his hand—a trivial injury, but telling.

Even Ning Fengzhi gasped.

He knew how tough Bone Douluo was; their sect's prestige was built on Sword and Bone Douluo's power.

But now, even he was injured by a Soul Emperor—had that punch hit Meng Shenji, he'd be dust.

"Thank you for saving me!" Meng Shenji breathed a sigh of relief. He doubted his trump card could have saved him from that attack.

Chapter 196: Super Break—Falling Star

"You go save them, leave this to me!"

Bone Douluo looked down at Black Firefly with a grave expression. Normally, even a standard Titled Douluo would find it hard to break his defense, yet a Soul Emperor like Black Firefly managed to do it. Is this the terror of a 100,000-year soul ring? Bone Douluo didn't believe a single 100,000-year ring could drastically close the gap between a Soul Emperor and a Titled Douluo, so there had to be other reasons—like martial soul or something else.

He glanced at the distant sky where Dugu Bo and Black Jinhsi were fighting fiercely. Though Dugu Bo currently had the upper hand, defeating Black Jinhsi completely in a short time didn't seem easy.

Teleportation, time slow, state reset, foresight—Black Jinhsi's bizarre abilities in battle made Dugu Bo increasingly alarmed.

He felt extremely stifled. His pride, the deadly poison, was useless against Black Jinhsi, who was formed from negative energy.

His attacks couldn't instantly kill Black Jinhsi, and with any opening, she could reset her state.

In terms of speed, Black Jinhsi could also move within the gaps of time—her speed rivaled teleportation. She could even predict his attacks and next moves to a certain degree.

Dugu Bo had already suffered several losses from this, with many attacks predicted and several sword lights solidly hitting him.

Those sword strikes were extremely strange—each looked like a casual swing, but four slashes would strike from different angles at once, making them unavoidable.

If not for his absolute advantage in soul power, if this was a same-level fight, he'd have been killed by what looked like an ordinary sword swing!

In this era, anyone who could become a Titled Douluo was a chosen one, each with a sense of pride.

But Dugu Bo had to admit, the little girl opposite him had talent far above his own.

If they were the same rank, he might not even see her back.

He understood negative-energy monsters were usually stronger than their originals, but if a copy was this strong, how could the original be weak? Besides, the 100,000-year soul ring was real—if the clone had it, so did the original.

He was filled with doubt, unable to comprehend where such an outrageous Soul Emperor came from, one that was copied by this contamination point.

Dugu Bo even began to doubt whether the Douluo Continent of his memory was fake.

He'd lived on this land so many years, but never met such a ridiculous Soul Emperor.

Overall, Black Jinhsi's power was at the Soul Douluo level, but she was just too troublesome. For Dugu Bo, fighting her was even harder than fighting other Titled Douluo.

While Dugu Bo was locked in a tough fight, trouble was brewing for Bone Douluo as well.

A layer of fiery red markings appeared on his body at some point.

Though the marking did not affect Bone Douluo immediately, no matter what he tried, he couldn't remove it.

Next, Black Firefly shot into the sky like a cannonball, her 100,000-year red ring glowing brilliantly, then she viciously kicked down at Bone Douluo.

Her third skill "Death Star Overload" added a fire weakness to Bone Douluo, while her sixth skill "Super Break—Falling Star" turned her into a meteor, delivering a devastating blow to her target.

Though Bone Douluo didn't know what the red marking did, danger bells rang in his heart and he almost instinctively activated his martial soul avatar.

A bone dragon dozens of meters long appeared, surrounded by thick black light, forming an unbreakable defense.

The meteor, wreathed in black-red flames, trailed a cloud of sonic booms as it crashed into the massive bone dragon.

At that crucial moment, the red Stigmata on the dragon's body flared. The black soul power barrier, once unbreakable, shattered like paper.

Black Firefly's devastating kick landed solidly.

Instantly, black-red flames spread, wrapping the bone dragon and turning it into a fire dragon before smashing it into the ground.

With a huge boom, a shockwave rippled out for hundreds of meters, sending dust everywhere and blotting out the sky.

"Uncle Bone!" Ning Fengzhi's eyes widened in disbelief.

In his mind, Bone Douluo's defense was unmatched— even Sword Douluo would struggle to break it.

But what happened before him shattered this belief.

The famed defense master, level 95 peak Douluo, was forced into his martial soul avatar, and his defense was broken so easily.

Compared to Ning Fengzhi's shock, Sword Douluo was much calmer.

Though shocked, he knew Bone Douluo's true strength well.

He understood that Black Firefly's attack was powerful and surprisingly broke Bone Douluo's defense, but to truly injure him badly was impossible.

Indeed, a deafening dragon roar sounded as the bone dragon flapped its wings, stirring up a tempest.

At the same time, sharp bone spikes erupted from the ground, turning hundreds of meters around into a white-bone hell.

Black Firefly, unfazed, punched out—terrifying flames turned the ground beneath her into magma, blocking the bone spikes.

As a killing machine made of negative energy, her instincts were terrifyingly sharp, instantly neutralizing Bone Douluo's fierce assault.

Plus, her original self was a battlefield veteran, with extreme combat experience.

However, the huge gap in soul power was still a chasm hard to cross.

While her unexpected attacks and debuff skills let her temporarily suppress Bone Douluo, unless she could kill him instantly, once he recovered, her defeat was only a matter of time.

But in this contamination point, what she least lacked were companions.

And being a being of pure killing instinct and no intelligence, she had no concept of one-on-one combat.

So, a silver dragon spear, trailing air currents, whistled down like lightning onto the bone dragon's head.

Crack!

With a crisp sound, the dragon bone struck by the spear shattered instantly.

At the same time, Bone Douluo felt his life force and soul power being crazily drained by the silver spear.

Fortunately, in his martial soul avatar, his huge form meant a few bones breaking wasn't fatal.

But it was horrifying enough.

If that spear had hit his head, even his strongest part, he doubted he could withstand it.

Watching from afar, Lu Jingming's mouth twitched. This planet's will was really extravagant—even artifacts could be copied.

The silver dragon girl in martial soul attachment state was surrounded by elemental orbs, spinning rapidly and radiating dazzling light.

She, too, had two purple, three black, and one red ring, and was fighting Bone Douluo alongside Black Firefly.

The Silver Dragon martial soul was the pinnacle of true dragon martial souls.

Even though Bone Douluo's spirit was a mutated bone dragon, able to control space, under the Silver Dragon's pressure, his power was still suppressed.

Thus, a peak Douluo was temporarily held off by two Soul Emperors.

Not only that, but Black March 7th in the distance fired arrows, creating a stalemate.

"Uncle Sword!" Ning Fengzhi frowned tightly. Things had developed far beyond his expectations.

This contamination point was too strange. The negative-energy monsters, by level, matched a new contamination point, with the strongest being Soul Emperor—no Soul Sages appeared.

But their actual combat power was unbelievable.

Who would have thought Soul Emperors could go toe-to-toe with Titled Douluo, even holding their ground? This was unimaginable before.

Sword Douluo had held back, secretly protecting Ning Fengzhi, Xue Qinghe, and others in case of emergencies.

He could also tell that while the battle was stuck, over time, Dugu Bo and Bone Douluo would eventually win.

But Ning Fengzhi felt they couldn't just wait.

The Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda burst into seven-colored light, sending beams onto Dugu Bo, Bone Douluo, Sword Douluo, Meng Shenji, and others.

As sect master, Ning Fengzhi was far stronger than Ning Rongrong.

He had already reached the Seven Aperture Exquisite Heart realm, able to use seven skills on seven targets at once.

With the Pagoda's buffs, Dugu Bo felt all his stats—soul power, spirit, attack, defense—rocket upward.

"Hahaha, so this is the world's best support spirit! I've finally experienced it myself."

Dugu Bo laughed heartily, finally enjoying what Sword Douluo and Bone Douluo usually had.

At the same time, his eighth ring shone, unleashing his eighth skill, "Time Freeze."

A green ripple spread, instantly reaching Black Jinhsi.

Even though time-control skills didn't scare Black Jinhsi, since she too could manipulate time, Dugu Bo knew this—and had held back this skill until now.

But with the Pagoda's boost, its power was greatly increased.

Even Black Jinhsi involuntarily paused for a moment.

In that fleeting instant, Dugu Bo unleashed his skull bone skill—Medusa's Stare.

A petrifying gaze shot out, hitting the immobilized Black Jinhsi.

Gray petrification quickly spread, turning her completely to stone, causing her to fall from a hundred meters up.

Fully petrified, she was doomed to shatter.

Though her actual combat power was high, her soul power was only Soul Emperor level, and with Dugu Bo's buffs, she stood little chance.

Not only Dugu Bo, but Bone Douluo's aura also soared with the Pagoda's support.

Countless bone spikes rained down like a storm, forcing Black Firefly and Black Gu Yue into retreat.

With the tide turning, morale soared.

Soul rings shone like stars, lighting up the valley.

Soul skills erupted in a dazzling display, sweeping away the black-armored soldiers.

But while others cheered, Lu Jingming's gaze locked onto Black March 7th and Black Robin.

Others might not know their skills, but Lu Jingming did.

Sure enough, Black March 7th's fifth ring glowed as she fired an arrow at petrified Black Jinhsi.

The ice-blue arrow struck Black Jinhsi, melting into her body. The petrification vanished instantly.

This was March 7th's fifth skill, "Pure White Prayer," which not only dispelled debuffs but also gave strong defense.

Meanwhile, Black Robin's head glowed with a heavenly ring as white wings spread.

With a melodious song, soul power notes appeared, falling on Black Jinhsi, Black Firefly, and others.

She used three skills: "White Wing Song," "Feather Aria," and "Heaven Ring Sound," boosting all teammates—better than the Seven Treasure Pagoda.

Then her fourth skill, "Thousand-Tone Concerto," turned all fifth rings blood-red, upgrading them to 100,000-year rings.

Her fifth skill, "Stellar Fugue," hit Black Gu Yue and others, raising their power so quickly that all broke through to Soul Sage, gaining a seventh red ring.

Finally, her sixth skill, "Harmonic Hymn," linked everyone in a soul power network.

If anyone used soul power, 10% of the cost would be restored by teammates.

With such powerful support, the blackened group all advanced to Soul Sage, displaying terrifying dominance.

Dugu Bo, as a hundred-meter green scaly snake emperor, was pinned by Black Jinhsi's time dragon.

A giant mecha over fifty meters tall, wreathed in black-red flames, wielded a green giant sword, leaving a shocking sword scar on Bone Douluo's dragon body.

The beautiful but blackened Silver Dragon still radiated noble aura, clawing at Bone Douluo's wings as if to tear them off.

The battle changed rapidly: from Ning Fengzhi's Pagoda boost, to Black Robin powering up Black Jinhsi's side, all advanced to Soul Sage and used spirit avatars—in just a few minutes.

"Fengzhi, be careful!" Sword Douluo could no longer sit still—he called out, drew his Seven Kill Sword, and vanished.

The moment he disappeared, the white-haired youth on the Black Throne opened his eyes.

Seven Kill Sword intent condensed into a blood-red sword, instantly appearing before Black Robin.

Sword Douluo knew Black Robin's support had reversed the battle; his first target was her.

After all, her support had surpassed Ning Fengzhi's; everyone had to accept this fact.

Just as the sword flashed, Black Castorice, who stood near Black Robin, also opened her eyes.

She swung a purple-black scythe, sending a purple blade against the blood sword.

Sword and scythe clashed, unleashing a shockwave as Sword Douluo reappeared.

He looked at the girl who blocked his attack, then at the purple airflow binding his legs, frowning.

Black Castorice had used her second skill, "Nether Domain," spreading a deathly field that weakened all his stats.

In this domain, the effect of the Seven Treasure Pagoda was greatly reduced.

Sword Douluo formed a sword with his fingers, gathering the Seven Kill Sword and aiming at Black Castorice, sword intent and killing intent surging.

But then, a black spear with black-red lightning and terrifying spear intent struck like lightning.

Sword Douluo's face changed, hurriedly blocking with his sword.

The spear tip hit the sword, black-red lightning raging as sword and spear intent clashed, even freezing the space around them.

Black Castorice and Black Robin retreated instantly, leaving the clash zone.

With Black Robin's support, Black Lu Jingming now had two purple, one black, and four red soul rings.

The sixth and seventh rings had golden lightning Stigmatas, very striking.

The four blood-red rings made Sword Douluo's eyelid twitch. He glanced at Lu Jingming by Ning Fengzhi.

"Brother Lu, aren't you a sword cultivator?"

Xue Qinghe looked at Lu Jingming, who was holding a black spear wreathed in black-red lightning and fighting Sword Douluo.

"I do practice swordsmanship, but I never said my martial soul was a sword," Lu Jingming replied helplessly.

He'd always practiced swordsmanship, but who said a swordsman's spirit had to be a sword?

"Brother Lu, you really give me endless surprises!"

Xue Qinghe looked at Black Lu Jingming's strange 100,000-year soul ring, especially the golden lightning, his expression flickering.

As a descendant of the Angel God with a god-given spirit, Xue Qinghe knew many secrets.

For example, after a soul master reached rank 100 and became a god, the tenth ring was a god ring—gold in color.

Seeing Black Lu Jingming's strange rings, his first thought was god rings.

But quickly ruled it out—if it were a god ring, Sword Douluo couldn't block that spear.

So he guessed Lu Jingming's backers, like Spirit Hall, had divine inheritances.

Otherwise, such extraordinary rings and their strange effects were hard to explain.

He also deduced that everyone appearing at this contamination point was likely Lu Jingming's companions.

After all, at the contamination point in Star Luo Empire, a copy of Ning Fengzhi appeared with Sword Douluo as the core.

With this precedent, both Xue Qinghe and Ning Fengzhi concluded the same.

Moreover, Black Robin's support suggested Lu Jingming's true ring configuration was two purple, two black, two red.

This only confirmed Xue Qinghe's suspicions that Lu Jingming's backers were on par with Spirit Hall and Sea God Island, with gods behind the scenes.

Otherwise, without divine help, how could Lu Jingming absorb such rings? Even he, with innate rank 20 soul power and a god-given spirit, supplied with endless treasures, had never absorbed out-of-level rings.

Of course, he didn't need to—just starting the god trial would upgrade his rings naturally.

"Brother Lu, what do you think we should do next?"

Xue Qinghe frowned at Lu Jingming.

Since this was Lu Jingming's own copy, he surely knew its strength.

Lu Jingming stroked his chin and said frankly, "Sword Douluo is extraordinary, and with his soul power, he can defeat that blackened me, but it'll be hard to truly kill me."

Chapter 197: Star-Cutting Universe—Great Glazed Sword

Hearing this, Xue Qinghe and Ning Fengzhi were shaken. Even the original Lu Jingming said so—Sword Douluo likely couldn't kill Black Lu Jingming.

Without killing the contamination point core, it was meaningless—negative energy would endlessly revive the black-armored soldiers to attack again.

Sword Douluo truly couldn't kill Black Lu Jingming; the Black Abyss White Flower had cellular-level regeneration, plus Black Robin's sixth skill could continually restore teammates' soul power.

This contamination point's endless negative energy constantly replenished Black Lu Jingming—Lu Jingming couldn't imagine how to kill him.

Moreover, Black Castorice had a death immunity skill (with cooldown), enough to reverse the battle at a critical time.

Black Jinhsi's third skill, "Time Reversal," could turn back time—a form of resurrection.

Black March 7th's sixth skill, "Eternal Winter Pact," could resurrect a teammate dead less than ten minutes, at the cost of half her soul power.

But most troublesome to Lu Jingming was himself.

He had already given his second martial soul, White Flower, six soul rings—all 100,000-year rings from the World Tree Stigmata.

The second ring's "Holy Remains Resonance" was especially unique—linking all teammates in a life network.

As long as one person in the network survived, the others could not die—unless someone could instantly kill everyone at once.

Sword Douluo clearly couldn't do that; his only fate was being drained to death.

In this contamination point, everyone suffered ongoing negative energy and emotional erosion—no one could fight for long, not even Titled Douluo.

Abundance-type abilities were just that troublesome: no matter how strong the opponent, they couldn't wipe out someone with such powers.

And in Douluo Continent, there was no way to seal recovery skills.

Some soul tools had similar effects, like the God-Sealing Platform, but in this era, such tools didn't exist.

Thus, the current situation was nearly unsolvable.

Even if Lu Jingming brought his original team, fighting the blackened group head-on would become a long war of attrition, with the outcome depending on who lasted longer.

Plus, this contamination point's negative energy was their home field.

In short, the planet's will had created an enormous problem.

Unless Qian Daoliu arrived to erase this point, if more were copied, Heaven Dou City—closest to here—would be doomed.

But getting Qian Daoliu to act was unlikely unless Qian Renxue asked in person.

Moreover, only Lu Jingming knew how powerful the next copied people could be; others had no idea.

So, though they felt a crisis, it wasn't yet urgent.

Even if they took it seriously, the Heaven Dou Empire would likely refuse to ask Spirit Hall for help.

Even if they did, Angel Douluo Qian Daoliu might not act immediately.

By now, everyone had retreated from the Titled Douluo-level battlefield.

Huo Wu, Shui Bing'er, and other students had long since withdrawn, watching from afar and ready to flee.

After all, the battle was far beyond their level—even watching up close was dangerous.

Thus, all academy teachers protected their own students, ready to run if things went south.

The two Soul Douluo, Meng Shenji and Zhi Lin, boosted by the Seven Treasure Pagoda, were busy too.

Zhi Lin went to assist Dugu Bo, while Meng Shenji worked to rescue Bai Baoshan from being frozen.

After all, as Soul Douluo, they weren't easy to kill—Bai Baoshan was frozen but not killed instantly by Black March 7th's arrow.

Zhi Lin's massive Sky Blue Vine martial soul became a vine dragon, joining Dugu Bo's green scaled snake emperor in a brutal fight with Black Jinhsi's time dragon.

As a Soul Sage with extreme light attributes and a 100,000-year ring, Black Jinhsi controlled time. Now, with her martial soul avatar and Black Robin's buffs, her combat power rivaled Titled Douluo.

The battlefield was ablaze, dragons roaring, lasers flying—thousands of meters ruined, the land even more corrupted.

Bone Douluo's bone dragon also struggled, attacked by the Silver Dragon and giant mecha.

If not for his defense and space powers, he'd be badly hurt.

Black Firefly's attacks ignored his defense, restraining him, and Black Gu Yue's space control limited his own space skills.

Still, relying on his deep soul power and the Pagoda's boost, Bone Douluo could last, though looking battered.

Sword Douluo was also fighting all-out; his sword qi changed the valley itself.

Black Lu Jingming went all out, using his soul bone skill "Dominion" to create a black gravity orb, pinning Sword Douluo.

Then his "Heaven-Shaking Phenomena" skill shattered the void, pulling a meteorite to smash Sword Douluo.

At the critical moment, Sword Douluo unleashed his martial soul avatar—the Seven Kill Sword became a hundred-meter giant sword, blood-red sword qi rising.

With this, he broke free and clashed with the meteor head-on.

Boom!

The meteor shattered, raining fiery debris.

The aftermath threatened to kill many students, even though it was just residual power.

At this moment, Lu Jingming, holding a black spear with two purple, two black, two red rings, stabbed the spear into the ground, releasing a black barrier that shielded Xue Qinghe, Xue Ke, and Ning Fengzhi.

The flaming debris dissolved harmlessly upon touching the barrier.

"Thank you, Brother Lu!" Xue Qinghe, seeing Lu Jingming's soul rings, looked satisfied and thanked him sincerely.

Right now, only Lu Jingming could ensure their safety.

"It's nothing. But we need to prepare to retreat."

Lu Jingming shook his head.

Unlike him, Black Lu Jingming would hide nothing, nor care about the Black Abyss White Flower's deadly power.

He suspected Black Lu Jingming could also use self-fusion skills.

The power of the Thunder Stigmata and World Tree Stigmata would surely be revealed in battle.

With Black Robin's buffs, how could Black Lu Jingming lose?

Though only temporarily boosted to Soul Sage, with his foundation, that was enough to challenge Titled Douluo. If he used all his cards, he could even fight Super Douluo, and his survivability was terrifying—even Limit Douluo might not kill him if he wanted to escape.

Of course, Black Lu Jingming would not run—so only Qian Daoliu might erase this contamination point.

"Sorry to trouble you, Brother Lu. My sister and I will rely on you for our safety," Xue Qinghe said, looking at the battlefield.

Ning Fengzhi was fully focused on maintaining the Pagoda's boost—if he failed, the situation would worsen instantly.

"Sun and Moon Shine, Golden Rotation!" At this moment, Shrek Academy's Yu Xiaogang, Flender, and Liu Erlong stood in a triangle, radiating strong soul power.

A moment later, golden light exploded, a dragon roared, and a golden holy dragon with flames and lightning appeared.

Facing it, Black Castorice stepped on air, swinging her scythe to tear space. A purple death dragon emerged, gathering death power.

The deathly breath became a dark purple cannon, roaring forth.

The golden dragon also breathed lightning-flame breath, the beams clashing and creating a huge energy storm.

"Not good, the teachers can't hold on!" Tang San saw the golden breath failing before the death dragon's.

If it hit, everyone would die.

"Martial soul Avatar!"

Zhao Wuji, sensing danger, transformed into the Giant Bear, leaping at Black Castorice.

But suddenly, icy cold filled the air—a crystalline ice mirror appeared near Zhao Wuji.

Black March 7th stepped out from the mirror, right behind Zhao Wuji.

Sensing danger, Zhao Wuji was terrified.

Black March 7th now wielded two ice swords, sword intent freezing everything.

Her swordsmanship, close to Jingliu, drew Sword Douluo's attention.

Compared to Lu Jingming, March 7th's sword intent, able to freeze all and cut stars, was even closer to Jingliu.

Her "Star-Cutting Universe—Great Glazed Sword" was learned from Jingliu, and though lazy in practice, with her talent she was now proficient.

The star-shattering sword intent, mixed with black-red destruction, bore down.

Though a copy, Black March 7th's sword intent was more extreme and destructive.

The sword light split the air, clashing with the rules of the world, erupting in black-red lightning.

Zhao Wuji barely managed to guard his chest, turning to meet the fatal blow.

The Vigorous Vajra Bear was famed for defense, and Zhao Wuji was called the Immovable King.

But at the same level as Soul Sage, with this sword containing Jingliu's essence, he couldn't block it.

With a terrifying sound, Zhao Wuji was sent flying, blood spraying.

He flew straight toward Black Castorice.

Shlick!

The deathly purple scythe pierced his chest.

Zhao Wuji stared wide-eyed at the scythe, feeling his life and soul being devoured by death power.

"Teacher Zhao!" Tang San and the others screamed in grief.

Ning Rongrong, Zhu Zhuqing, Xiao Wu, and the girls covered their mouths, weeping.

Roar!

Flender and the trio, fused as the golden dragon, were enraged by this.

Their anger boosted them, and the golden breath surged, barely holding back the death dragon's breath.

Black Castorice, expressionless, flicked the scythe, and Zhao Wuji's body fell.

As his martial soul avatar faded, he crashed to the ground.

"Teacher Zhao!" Dai Mubai and the others rushed but were met by Black March 7th's merciless slash.

A black-red sword energy ripped the earth, slashing at Shrek's group.

"Not good, Rongrong!" Ning Fengzhi cried out.

Sword Douluo, distracted, was struck by Black Lu Jingming's lightning Stigmata, forming an electromagnetic acceleration field.

The black spear, accelerated, became a meteor and hit Sword Douluo.

The terrifying force, plus high-voltage lightning, far exceeded his expectations.

The railgun sent Sword Douluo flying for thousands of meters until he crashed into a mountain, causing a mushroom cloud.

"Go!" Seeing the carnage, everyone fled with their surviving students.

As the deadly sword energy neared Shrek, Tang San and others tried desperately to block it.

But all their skills—fire, vines, light—were shredded like paper.

Despair appeared on their faces.

At the last moment, Xiao Wu stepped in front of everyone.

Her fourth soul ring glowed, golden light enveloping her, and Invincible Golden Body activated.

Boom!

She blocked the sword energy with her glowing hands; black-red lightning exploded.

The Invincible Golden Body gave her three seconds of immunity, barely enough to block.

"No, Xiao Wu!" Tang San paled, shouting.

He knew Invincible Golden Body cost huge soul power, and as a Soul Ancestor, Xiao Wu couldn't last three seconds against that sword energy.

Indeed, as she blocked, her soul power drained rapidly, the golden light dimming.

Within a second, it was about to shatter.

Xiao Wu's face grew paler.

Soon, she'd be cleaved in two, and the others shredded.

At this critical moment, a dark-gold hammer smashed the black-red sword energy, saving Xiao Wu and Tang San's group.

"That's...? The Clear Sky Hammer—Father!" Tang San was overjoyed.

He already knew from Tai Tan that Tang Hao was his father, so recognized the hammer instantly.

"Xiao San, take your friends and run!"

A slovenly man with a beard, holding the giant black hammer, looked warily at Black March 7th and Black Castorice.

Though a level 95 peak Douluo with a 100,000-year ring, Tang Hao was badly wounded from his fight with Qian Xunji and years of drinking.

Right now, even Sword Douluo would be hard to beat—facing Black March 7th and Black Castorice, he dared not relax.

"Clear Sky Avatar!" Tang Hao instantly summoned his avatar.

A humanoid phantom wielded the massive hammer, spreading the Deathgod Domain, dark gold and blood red covering the sky.

The giant hammer fell, stirring a storm, the pressure making space tremble.

Chapter 198: Holy Spear Reversal!

Facing Tang Hao's Clear Sky Avatar, Black March 7th's expression was cold, her swords raised, sword intent tearing space. The cold of Six-Phase Ice spread, freezing space and momentarily halting Tang Hao.

At the same time, Black Lu Jingming, after blasting Sword Douluo with his railgun, conjured his Black Abyss spear.

In his right hand appeared a white lance, six blood-red rings with green divine patterns entwined, radiating life energy.

"Twin Martial Souls!" Everyone gasped, shocked.

Xue Qinghe and Xue Ke looked at Lu Jingming in disbelief.

Lu Jingming's mouth twitched—Black Lu Jingming was acting decisively, about to use martial soul Fusion Skill.

His Black Abyss White Flower had a 100% fusion rate, so this skill's power would be unimaginable.

Just like the Golden Triangle—99% fusion rate, but two Soul Sages plus Yu Xiaogang could rival Titled Douluo.

Now, a Soul Sage–level Black Lu Jingming would use self-fusion; if he unleashed the Holy Spear Reversal, no one could escape.

Black Abyss White Flower's Holy Spear Reversal could precisely lock onto any target at a distance, and its withering power could erase them completely.

This was Lu Jingming's current strongest move—a sure-kill technique!

"Careful, I have self-fusion—if he uses it, no one can block it!" Lu Jingming warned.

He couldn't tell who Black Lu Jingming's target would be; if it was them, he could only protect himself—Xue Qinghe, Xue Ke, and Ning Fengzhi would likely die.

Everyone knew how terrifying fusion skills were.

"Uncle Sword, Uncle Bone, Poison Douluo, Clear Sky Douluo—careful, it's a martial soul fusion skill!"

Hearing Lu Jingming's reminder, Ning Fengzhi shouted in alarm.

Everyone froze, turning to Black Lu Jingming, holding black and white holy spears.

It was two different martial souls, each with unique rings—definitely Twin Martial Souls.

Yet no one had heard of Twin Martial Souls using fusion skills.

"I am the devouring black, I am the nurturing white, born before creation, existing after annihilation."

Black Lu Jingming raised the spears; with icy words, the two merged into the complete Black Abyss White Flower.

The chilling incantation made everyone shiver.

Not only did this negative-energy copy speak for the first time, but the withering power exuded was like facing death itself.

"Holy Spear Reversal!"

With those cold words, a devouring black light locked onto the most prominent figure—Tang Hao.

After all, he was using his avatar, brandishing the giant hammer, making him an obvious target.

Locked on, Tang Hao felt a flood of death crisis—there was nowhere to hide.

Even if he abandoned Tang San and tried to run, he couldn't escape the shadow of death.

In such a desperate moment, Tang Hao's face twisted. Unable to dodge, he chose to face it.

"Great Sumeru Hammer, Ring Explosion!"

Tang Hao roared, detonating his first ring. Massive soul power surged, making the hammer even more fearsome, now crackling with thunder.

The devouring black light tore through space, everything in its path vanishing.

It reached Tang Hao in a blink.

Muscles taut, old wounds reopened, blood trickled from his mouth, but he had no time to care—he swung the hammer with all his might.

Boom!

The black light and hammer clashed, freezing time and space for a heartbeat.

But in the next instant, a deafening explosion split the sky, even the clouds divided.

The withering black light kept erasing the hammer's power.

Sensing this, Tang Hao detonated his second, third, and fourth rings in sequence, using Ring Explosion to keep up.

The Great Sumeru Hammer was a godly technique, and Ring Explosion could let the user vastly exceed their normal power for a short time.

Tang Hao had once relied on it to escape from Qian Daoliu.

Now, facing the fusion skill, he had no choice but to use it again.

Though he'd be left extremely weak, if he didn't, he'd die.

If killed by a Soul Sage's fusion skill, his reputation would be ruined.

So he didn't hesitate.

Though wounded, as a level 95 peak Douluo, with Ring Explosion, he finally managed to block Holy Spear Reversal.

"Father, careful!"

Tang Hao had just blocked the attack with five exploded rings when Tang San's terrified cry sounded.

He tried to explode his sixth ring, but a graceful, chilly figure—Black Castorice—appeared before him.

Her fifth ring shone, deathly power gathering in her gorgeous purple scythe.

Fifth skill: "Phantom Butterfly's Caress"—death power condensed in the blade, fatal on contact.

A flash, purple butterflies fluttered, and blood splattered.

Tang Hao barely avoided a fatal blow with Ring Explosion, but his chest was still sliced deeply.

Terrifying death power invaded, impossible to expel.

Boom!

Tang Hao, enraged, swung the hammer, shattering the air and blasting Black Castorice away.

"Go!"

Tang Hao grabbed Tang San and Xiao Wu, fleeing desperately.

The golden dragon grabbed Dai Mubai and others, flying from the valley.

"Time Freeze!" Dugu Bo, seeing the chance, used his eighth skill again, freezing Black Jinhsi and rushing to lead his group away.

Sword Douluo, battered by Black Lu Jingming's railgun, struck at Black Gu Yue and Black Firefly to force them back, letting Bone Douluo warp back to Ning Fengzhi.

"Fengzhi, let's go!"

Bone Douluo, burned all over, waved his hand, warping the group away.

Sword Douluo, after a delaying strike, turned into sword light and retreated at top speed.

Meng Shenji saved Bai Baoshan, fleeing as well.

Black March 7th fired one last arrow, but it was blocked by Zhi Lin's vine dragon.

Most strong fighters managed to escape, leaving only a few unlucky souls behind.

In moments, the contamination point core was deserted except for a dozen corpses.

Most were lower-level Soul Emperors, but some, like Soul Sage Zhao Wuji, were unlucky too.

Once everyone escaped, they fled for dozens of kilometers before stopping.

They were all terrified by the negative-energy monsters at this point.

After resting, they recovered from their panic.

Seeing fewer than a hundred left from over a hundred at the start, all battered, everyone was still in shock.

Their confidence at the start was now a stark contrast to their current state.

If not for the Titled Douluo taking most of the fire, none of them would have survived.

"Uncle Sword, Uncle Bone, are you okay?"

Ning Fengzhi looked worriedly at Sword and Bone Douluo.

"We're fine, just minor injuries. We were careless this time!"

They shook their heads, faces ugly.

Though not seriously injured, this experience felt like a dream.

As a level 95 and 97 peak Douluo, with Ning Fengzhi's buffs, being suppressed by a group of Soul Sages was unbelievable!

Lu Jingming shook his head as well.

He knew that without Black Robin's help, Sword and Bone Douluo should have been able to clear this point with ease.

After all, Black Firefly and others, even if strong, were only Soul Emperor level, at best able to fight Titled Douluo.

But with Black Robin's boost, everyone advanced to Soul Sage, and the situation changed.

In the soul master system, Soul Sage was a critical threshold.

Only by breaking through to Soul Sage could one be considered an advanced soul master, and a force needed a Soul Sage to be considered advanced.

So, the strength leap from Soul Emperor to Soul Sage was enormous.

Soul Emperor–level Black Firefly and others could barely fight Titled Douluo.

But as Soul Sages, they could now suppress Titled Douluo, and even several together could suppress a peak Douluo.

So, seeing Black Robin, Lu Jingming knew Sword Douluo and others would suffer.

Events played out exactly as he predicted.

Tang Hao's appearance was also within his expectations. With Black Robin's boost, there were six Titled Douluo–level copies.

His own copy blocked Sword Douluo; Black Jinhsi pinned Dugu Bo; Black Firefly and Black Gu Yue trapped Bone Douluo.

That left Black March 7th and Black Castorice with only the Golden Triangle able to stop them.

So, Tang Hao, hiding to protect Tang San, was inevitably forced out.

That Tang Hao could block Black Abyss White Flower's Holy Spear Reversal surprised Lu Jingming.

The Ring Explosion was indeed mighty—it let Tang San fight Qian Renxue as a god, and Tang Hao used it to block Holy Spear Reversal.

But Tang Hao was hit by Black Castorice's fifth skill; he was doomed, only a matter of time.

Given Tang Hao's state, how long he could last was unknown.

In this world, only Lu Jingming or Castorice, or a god, could save Tang Hao from the death power.

Castorice wasn't in this world, and Lu Jingming felt little for Tang Hao, so he wouldn't save him.

As for gods, they wouldn't intervene.

So Tang Hao was almost certainly doomed—the death power would gradually consume his life until he died.

…

"Father!" Tang San supported Tang Hao, staring at the deadly wound on his chest, deeply worried.

He sent soul power into Tang Hao, shocked to find the death power devouring both life and soul power.

"It's fine, Xiao San, I can hold it back!" Tang Hao knew his own injuries but showed no fear.

For him, death might be relief—a way to join Ah Yin.

His only worry was Tang San and the Clear Sky Sect.

He felt he'd let the sect and his father down, making him unworthy.

He couldn't avenge himself on Spirit Hall; this was his regret.

If not for Tang San, he might have wasted away already.

Now, even if he didn't want to see Ah Yin, he had no choice.

"Dean Flender, what about Teacher Zhao?" Meanwhile, Ning Rongrong and others thought of Zhao Wuji.

"Sigh, it's all my fault." Flender closed his eyes in pain.

If he hadn't brought them here for treasure, Zhao Wuji wouldn't have died—he was deeply remorseful.

Oscar and the others were also heartbroken; the atmosphere was heavy.

…

"Uncle Feng, Uncle Huo, can Aunt be saved?" On another side, Huo Lin and Feng Ying had brought Shui Minger out.

Now, Shui Minger was sealed in ice by Shui Bing'er.

Unlike the negative energy copies, she had a real body.

After leaving the contamination point, the negative energy around her faded, but her body remained.

"I can sense her soul trapped in her body by negative energy, which is good news. But her heart is shattered and her body is dead; once the negative energy fades, her soul will vanish too."

Meng Shenji, as a spiritual Douluo, checked her carefully, surprised by this unusual state, but could do nothing.

"Ye Lingling, come see if you can heal her!" Though he had little hope, Meng Shenji wouldn't ignore someone in need.

He called Ye Lingling over.

"Eh, me?" Ye Lingling hesitated.

She was only a Soul Elder, and this was a tough task.

"It's fine, just try—we're all here!" Dugu Yan comforted her.

If Ye Lingling could save Shui Minger, it'd be a great favor.

Even if she failed, no harm done—this was just a desperate attempt.

"Alright." Ye Lingling nodded, walked to Shui Minger, and sighed.

With her two yellow and one purple rings, she summoned her beautiful pink-white begonia flower.

Her healing light fell on Shui Minger.

Everyone saw her minor wounds heal quickly.

But, sadly, the fatal chest wound remained unchanged.

The Nine-Heart Begonia was powerful, but with only one skill.

Ye Lingling's cultivation was too low to regrow limbs, let alone a heart.

If she were a Titled Douluo, maybe there'd be a hope.

But Shui Minger didn't have that much time, and even a Soul Sage couldn't regrow her heart.

PS: Since Tang San was playing god and messing around in Jingming's timeline, he was now doing the same to Tang San's era. lmao

Chapter 199: Life Reconstruction

If a Nine-Heart Begonia Soul Master could achieve the miracle of limb regeneration at the Soul Sage level, even the Heaven Dou Empire would have a hard time protecting Ye Lingling and her mother.

Seeing that Ye Lingling, a Nine-Heart Begonia Soul Master, couldn't heal Shui Minger's injuries, disappointment appeared on the faces of Shui Bing'er and the others.

"Sorry, I can't save her. But I know someone who probably can!"

Ye Lingling slowly withdrew her Nine-Heart Begonia Martial Soul. Looking at the sorrowful and desperate expressions of Shui Bing'er and the others, she couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy and gently spoke.

"Really? Who is it? Please, tell us! Whether it works or not, all three of our academies owe you a favor."

Feng Ying, hearing this, felt as if he had grabbed a lifeline in desperation. Hope instantly ignited in his eyes as he looked at Ye Lingling in surprise.

Ye Lingling hesitated for a moment, then glanced toward Lu Jingming, who was not far away talking with Xue Qinghe.

"Him?" Following Ye Lingling's gaze, Shui Bing'er and the others also saw Lu Jingming, their faces showing confusion.

Back at the contamination point, they'd already witnessed the terrifying power and dominance of Black Lu Jingming. No matter how they looked at him, he didn't seem like a healing-type Soul Master!

Despite their doubts, Shui Bing'er and the others still walked toward Lu Jingming.

"Little brother, as long as you can save Minger, I'm willing to do anything for you."

Feng Ying stepped forward, made his intentions clear, and then showed an unshakeable determination on his face.

"So am I," Huo Lin quickly added, refusing to be outdone.

"Mr. Lu, as long as you can save my aunt, Skywater Academy is willing to pay any price."

Shui Bing'er was just as decisive. They were out of options and had no choice but to trust Ye Lingling's judgment.

"How interesting. How did you figure out I'm a healing-type Soul Master too?" Lu Jingming looked curiously at the cool, blue-haired Ye Lingling.

Neither he nor Black Lu Jingming had ever displayed healing abilities. How did Ye Lingling perceive it?

"I can sense it. Your second Martial Soul is of the healing type. My Martial Soul told me."

Ye Lingling recalled the white lance that appeared when Black Lu Jingming used his Martial Soul Fusion Skill, its overwhelming life aura making even her Nine-Heart Begonia tremble.

She had a strong hunch that the power held by that white lance might even break the curse her clan's Martial Soul bore.

The Nine-Heart Begonia is a top-tier healing Martial Soul, holding a status in the healing field much like the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda in the support field.

However, like the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda, the Nine-Heart Begonia also has a flaw: at most, only two Soul Masters can exist in the same era.

In this generation, only she and her mother possess this Martial Soul; their entire family counts just the two of them.

Yet the aura from that white lance made her Nine-Heart Begonia want to yield in submission.

Such submission only happens when encountering a superior Martial Soul of the same type—like how a True Dragon Martial Soul naturally dominates other draconic Martial Souls. The lance's Martial Soul was simply born superior to her Nine-Heart Begonia.

Hearing Ye Lingling's explanation, everyone was shocked.

Was there really a healing Martial Soul even stronger than the Nine-Heart Begonia?

The Nine-Heart Begonia is so powerful in healing that it's cursed; like the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda, it comes with a flaw.

But now, there appeared someone with a healing Martial Soul even stronger than the Nine-Heart Begonia—how could everyone not be shocked?

At the same time, hope flashed in Shui Bing'er and the others' eyes.

If there was a Martial Soul stronger than the Nine-Heart Begonia, could it really save Shui Minger? With that hope, they all looked at Lu Jingming with expectation.

"Little friend Lu, why not show us your second Martial Soul?"

Ning Fengzhi could barely hide the anticipation in his tone. Twin Martial Souls were rare enough, even rarer were those combining powerful attack and healing abilities.

Lu Jingming pondered, then saw the pleading look in Shui Bing'er's eyes, and finally nodded.

At this moment, he also needed to establish a foundation in this world, and the Elemental Academies were a good choice.

Whether building a chamber of commerce to sell stigmas or promoting soul tools, he'd need many people.

But he couldn't bring a mass of people from another world, so if he could win over the Elemental Academies, all the better.

He never planned to become a great power here—just a chamber of commerce would suffice.

What he sought in this world was the power of reality, not conquest.

However, he did plan to find a suitable partner, and in his eyes, Spirit Hall was an ideal ally: it was strong, would later have a god in residence, and treated commoners fairly, representing the common people.

By contrast, the Heaven Dou and Star Luo Empires, supported by Tang San, represented the aristocracy.

He saw that after Spirit Hall's fall, the treatment of commoners plummeted; compared to this world, it was night and day.

Here, when children reach a certain age, Spirit Hall sends a Soul Master to awaken their Martial Souls for free and provides various subsidies to ensure even low-level Soul Masters have stable income.

Spirit Hall truly covered the entire continent—even the most remote villages would get a visit for free Martial Soul awakening.

Take Su Yuntao, the blind Douluo who awakened Tang San's Martial Soul—if not for Spirit Hall, Tang San would have spent his life as a blacksmith, never awakening his Martial Soul due to Tang Hao's depression.

Without awakening, you can't absorb soul rings. Even with his Mysterious Heaven Record, Tang San would never progress in this world.

It's fair to say Tang San benefited greatly from Spirit Hall's services—free awakenings, gold soul coins, all provided by Spirit Hall.

Yet it was Tang San who ultimately destroyed Spirit Hall.

If he'd replaced Spirit Hall and worked for the people, that'd be one thing, but he just left after destroying them, ascending to the divine realm and ignoring the commoners' fate.

Look at the treatment of commoners ten thousand years later: now you have to pay soul coins for Martial Soul awakening. How many can afford that?

If you can't become a Soul Master, your hard-earned money is wasted.

Many can barely feed themselves, let alone save money.

As time passes, it gets harder for commoners to change their fates.

In Douluo Continent, without awakening your Martial Soul, no matter how talented you are, you'll remain at the bottom of society.

Even a transmigrator like Tang San would have remained a blacksmith his whole life if he couldn't awaken.

If even a transmigrator can't escape, how could an ordinary person?

Having made up his mind, Lu Jingming no longer hesitated.

With a wave of his right hand, a white knight's lance appeared in his grasp—six blood-red soul rings with green divine patterns lined up on its shaft.

Although everyone had seen these six rings on Black Lu Jingming, seeing them again, Ning Fengzhi and the others couldn't help but gasp.

"What a little monster!"

Dugu Bo, now beside Dugu Yan, thought that compared to Lu Jingming, Tang San wasn't even worth mentioning.

"Fourth soul skill: Life Reconstruction!"

As the fourth soul ring on the lance shone, a vast power of creation turned into gentle white light, enveloping Shui Minger.

With the knight's flower's cell-level repair ability, not only could he repair a heart, but even an entire body was possible.

"It's really healing her!"

Watching the previously shattered area of Shui Minger's chest restore itself from nothing, everyone gasped again.

Such astonishing restorative power was unheard of for them—only the legendary gods were said to possess such miracles.

Instantly, everyone thought of Black Lu Jingming at the contamination point.

Since the original could heal so powerfully, the clone likely could too.

They realized they'd underestimated those clones.

Sword Douluo frowned deeply.

Remembering the earlier battle, he actually could have continued fighting and might have found a chance to kill Black Lu Jingming.

But now, he was glad he hadn't—against such an undying opponent, he'd likely be the one to die.

"The body is healed. Now we just need to wait for the negative energy to dissipate and the soul's seal to lift. She'll wake up soon," Lu Jingming said, retracting his lance.

Truthfully, he hadn't expected Shui Minger's soul to have survived in such a state.

But upon reflection, it made sense.

Those corrupted by negative energy often had their souls imprisoned in their bodies, allowing them to constantly supply negative force and emotions.

This way, even as puppets, they could serve as fighting power or speed up the contamination point's negative energy accumulation.

In fact, negative energy would gradually dissipate if removed from the point—something Lu Jingming and the Greater Lord Rukkhadevata had intentionally designed.

Otherwise, if those clones could leave freely, the world would fall instantly.

Even now, this contamination point was strong only because of the planet's will, but it had just been born. The real troubles lay elsewhere.

Lu Jingming knew that in Slaughter City and the ocean, there were two other troublesome contamination points.

"Thank you, Mr. Lu. Skywater Academy will never forget your great kindness," Shui Bing'er said, bowing deeply.

Her bow, though unintentional, showcased her graceful figure.

Though her clothing wasn't revealing, even from above, Lu Jingming could only glimpse a hint of snowy skin—but he had to admit, Shui Bing'er's figure was exceptional for her age.

If he remembered right, she was only sixteen, just a year older than him.

Soul Masters' physiques really did develop faster under the nourishment of soul power.

"By the way, I want to create a chamber of commerce to sell some items. Miss Shui Bing'er, could you help me?"

Lu Jingming smiled, gently helping Shui Bing'er up.

"Of course, please just call me Bing'er, Mr. Lu. You're Skywater Academy's benefactor—there's no need to stand on ceremony."

Shui Bing'er shook her head. Shui Minger was not only her aunt, but a high-level leader at Skywater Academy. Losing her would be a huge blow.

Lu Jingming had saved Shui Minger, making him Skywater Academy's greatest benefactor. Whatever he asked, they'd do their best to fulfill.

"Mr. Lu, both God Wind and Blazing Fire Academies are also willing to help."

Feng Ying and Huo Lin exchanged a look and stepped forward sincerely.

The three Elemental Academies had always been close, and both men were pursuing Shui Minger.

They weren't fools—they knew connecting with someone as mysterious and powerful as Lu Jingming, who had heaven-defying healing powers, could only bring benefits.

Just like Ye Lingling and her mother—no fighting power, but with the Nine-Heart Begonia, they were honored guests of the Empire.

That's the value of healing Soul Masters on Douluo Continent. Rare everywhere, they're respected in any force.

"Brother Lu, you're being too polite. If you need anything, I'll do my best. I have some influence in the Heaven Dou Empire," Xue Qinghe said with a smile, tone slightly reproachful but without a trace of anger.

"Little friend Lu, our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect can also help with the chamber of commerce," Ning Fengzhi added.

The Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect was famous for appraisal and had great business acumen. In wealth, they ranked first among the seven great clans, second only to the empires and Spirit Hall.

"Thank you all!" Lu Jingming accepted Xue Qinghe and Ning Fengzhi's offers.

After all, this world was his laboratory; he didn't plan to conquer it. Building good relations was all gain, no loss.

"Father!" Though some distance away, Lu Jingming's healing of Shui Minger caught Shrek Academy's attention.

Seeing Lu Jingming repair Shui Minger's heart, Tang San's eyes lit up, and he looked at Tang Hao.

If he could reconstruct a shattered heart, could he also heal Tang Hao's injuries?

He wanted to ask Lu Jingming to help, but their relationship wasn't good, and they'd barely spoken.

Swallowing his pride to ask for help was hard.

As he hesitated, Xiao Wu noticed his struggle.

She quietly approached Ning Rongrong and whispered, "Rongrong…"

The Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect seemed to have a good relationship with Lu Jingming, and Ning Rongrong was the only one who'd talked to him before. Xiao Wu hoped she could ask for help.

Ning Rongrong didn't hesitate and ran to Lu Jingming.

"Mr. Lu, could you save Lord Clear Sky and Teacher Zhao?" Ning Rongrong looked at Lu Jingming with hope and pleading in her eyes.

Ning Fengzhi frowned slightly but didn't stop her.

Tang San had helped Ning Rongrong before, and the sect couldn't ignore that. Besides, owing Lu Jingming a favor was fine; reciprocation built stronger ties.

"Clear Sky Douluo's body is corroded by the power of death—there's nothing I can do. As for your Teacher Zhao, if you can get him out and his soul is intact, I can try."

Lu Jingming spread his hands helplessly.

To be honest, it wasn't that he couldn't heal Tang Hao—he just didn't want to do it for free.

Unless Tang Hao offered Ah Yin's hundred-thousand-year soul bone as payment—but knowing Tang Hao's love for Ah Yin, he'd likely never give it up, probably saving it for Tang San.

As for Zhao Wuji, Lu Jingming didn't care. The Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect would pay for his healing, but only if Shrek could get him out of the contamination point.

"This…" Ning Rongrong looked helplessly at Tang San, then hesitated, looking to Sword and Bone Douluo.

Ning Fengzhi could read Ning Rongrong's mind and said, "Rongrong, it's not that Sword Grandpa and Bone Grandpa aren't willing—it's just too dangerous in there."

He wasn't unwilling to do Shrek a favor, but he couldn't risk Sword and Bone Douluo.

Who could guarantee that Black Lu Jingming wouldn't use martial soul fusion again? Even Clear Sky Douluo barely blocked it using his Ring Explosion technique, and still got hit by Black Castorice's fifth skill, corroded by the power of death.

For Ning Fengzhi, their safety was more important than any favor.

Sword and Bone Douluo exchanged helpless looks.

Though confident, after the recent battle, they had no guarantee of survival. The clones were formidable; Black Gu Yue could manipulate space, Black Jinhsi could control time, and one careless move could mean instant death.

"I'll go save Zhao Wuji myself!"

Liu Erlong, hot-tempered and impulsive, wouldn't wait for the Seven Treasure Sect. She turned to rush into the contamination point.

But Yu Xiaogang and Flender weren't so rash—they knew how dangerous it was. Without their Martial Soul Fusion, going in alone was suicide.

Even with all three, without Sword Douluo and others to draw fire, rescuing Zhao Wuji was a fantasy.

"Erlong, calm down! We need to plan. If Zhao's soul is still there, we have time."

Flender was anxious too, but reason told him not to be impulsive.

Given Shui Minger's case, Zhao Wuji's soul was probably still in his body.

As long as his body wasn't destroyed again, there was hope—even without Lu Jingming, they still had Yearning Heartbroken Red.

Thinking of that herb, Xiao Wu hesitated. She'd wanted to use it to save Tang Hao.

But she knew if she gave it to Tang Hao, her own soul beast identity would be exposed without its aura-concealing effect.

Despite her hesitation, seeing Tang San's pain, she couldn't bear it and whispered, "San-ge, I have Yearning Heartbroken Red—maybe it can help Uncle."

"It's useless. The power of death keeps devouring my father's life. Yearning Heartbroken Red can only buy time, not cure him," Tang San shook his head.

He'd already thought of it, but after investigating, he found that unless the death force was cleared, restoring life would only prolong the suffering.

So when Lu Jingming said he couldn't help, Tang San didn't doubt it—he understood medicine too well.

That was the root of his despair. Otherwise, with his Ice and Fire Eyes, he could easily find herbs to restore Tang Hao's life force.

Chapter 200: Fu Hua and Kevin

The three great Titled Douluos led a team to the Contamination point but returned in defeat—a piece of news that exploded in Heaven Dou City like a bomb, even alarming Emperor Xue Ye in the palace.

Emperor Xue Ye personally invited Ning Fengzhi to the palace to discuss how to clear this troublesome Contamination point.

Xue Qinghe and Xue Ke also returned to Heaven Dou City, but Lu Jingming did not travel with them, as he still had his own matters to handle.

He planned to use Skywater's power to establish a business chamber, which required direct contact with the academy's upper management.

Although leveraging Xue Qinghe and the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect's power would make things smoother, Skywater would be easier for him to control.

Lu Jingming certainly knew how to choose; while he needed support, he could not let Xue Qinghe or the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect take charge.

Thus, Lu Jingming temporarily set aside his friendship with Xue Qinghe, left behind his little angel, and followed the little ice phoenix to Skywater.

After Xue Ke was sent away, Snake Lance Douluo and Porcupinefish Douluo quietly appeared in Xue Qinghe's room.

"Young Master, this operation was simply too risky. Please allow us to stay by your side at all times in the future!"

They had heard about the dangers at the Contamination point and were cold with fear.

They knew that if anything happened to Qian Renxue at the Contamination point, they would be held responsible no matter what.

"No problem. This time was indeed unexpected, but it won't happen again," Xue Qinghe said calmly.

Although this was dangerous, he had trump cards to save his life. Even if Sword Douluo and the others perished, he was confident he could escape.

"Have you notified Spirit Hall? Will Grandfather act?" Xue Qinghe was more concerned about the upcoming situation than past dangers.

He regarded the Heaven Dou Empire as his own. If the Contamination point wasn't cleared, it would eventually spread to Heaven Dou City—something he could not accept.

"This—" Snake Lance and Porcupinefish Douluo exchanged glances, helplessly replying, "Young Master, the Grand Worship cannot leave Spirit City."

"What happened?" Xue Qinghe frowned, puzzled.

…

Far away in Spirit City, in the Pope's Hall, Bibi Dong held her scepter, staring solemnly at the sky darkened by black clouds.

In the sky, Qian Daoliu, transformed into a six-winged angel and wielding a holy sword glowing with divine light, slashed fiercely, his sword light tearing the sky like lightning.

But in the next instant, the dazzling sword light was instantly shattered by a flaming fist, and endless negative energy covered the sky like dark clouds.

Opposing Qian Daoliu was a white-haired, red-eyed woman.

Clad in flames, surrounded by black aura and with cracks on her face, she still exuded an otherworldly, ethereal aura.

Qian Daoliu, holding his holy sword and flapping his white wings at supersonic speed, became a streak of golden light in the sky.

But his opponent was just as fast, and her combat skills far surpassed his.

No matter fist, movement, or sword techniques, Qian Daoliu was outclassed.

Even when using the Angel God's power to push himself into the demigod realm, he still could not defeat the white-haired woman—Dark Fu Hua.

Beyond the sky, the ground was also fraught with danger.

Black aura surged like a tide, less than a hundred kilometers from Spirit City—the reason Qian Daoliu had to intervene.

Spirit Hall had mobilized all its forces: all seven worship elders, many Titled Douluo elders, and the Angel Legion joined the battle just to contain the Contamination point's spread.

Death soldiers and colossal Honkai Beasts poured from the Contamination point, bringing unprecedented trouble.

Especially the Honkai Emperors—fast, armored, and deadly—required Titled Douluos to fight.

The battle dragged on for a long time; the spread was temporarily contained, and many treasures (including rare soul bones) were gained, but most of Spirit Hall's strength was locked in battle.

Crucially, Qian Daoliu could not defeat the core of the Contamination point—Dark Fu Hua, who controlled consciousness and flame.

As long as Fu Hua remained, the Contamination point would gather negative energy, spawning endless death soldiers and Honkai Beasts.

Qian Daoliu tried everything, even using the Angel God's power to become a demigod, yet still lost to Dark Fu Hua.

They reached a stalemate: Fu Hua would not leave, and Spirit Hall could not retreat, or the Contamination point would spread uncontrollably.

So, Spirit Hall sent experts and troops to clear monsters at the periphery, suppressing the spread.

Qian Daoliu was the only one in Spirit Hall who could hold Fu Hua at bay.

At this point, Dark Fu Hua, with Taixuan's Grasp, compressed her flames and struck—a cry of a phoenix resounded.

A flaming phoenix, shrouded in black, shot out like a meteor and struck Qian Daoliu.

A black-red fireball exploded in the sky.

Qian Daoliu was blasted back like a kite with a broken string, his golden glow struggling to resist the flames.

"Grand Worship!" Golden Crocodile Douluo flew up, worried as he saw Qian Daoliu's aura had weakened—obviously, the last blow was not easy to withstand.

"Retreat for now. Leave the Angel Legion to guard. Do not go deeper," Qian Daoliu said, clutching his chest grimly.

Even facing Tang Chen or Bo Saixi, he had never felt such pressure.

Against Dark Fu Hua, his combat experience and instincts were useless; only his soul power and borrowed divine power kept him going.

But he knew this was only temporary.

If the Contamination point grew, Fu Hua would become stronger, and his defeat would be inevitable.

If he died, Spirit Hall would be doomed. He could not risk himself lightly.

It was not cowardice; he knew his life had a greater mission—until that was done, he could not die.

"Looks like the plan must pause. Xue'er must start the god trial early. I wonder if she's ready…"

Qian Daoliu sighed wearily.

"Grand Worship!" Golden Crocodile Douluo's face changed.

As a loyal elder, he knew that Qian Renxue starting the god trial meant Qian Daoliu, as Angel God's high priest, would have to sacrifice himself.

He wished he could take Daoliu's place, but as a level-98, non-angel spirit, he was not qualified.

"This is my fate. I have no complaints. All for Xue'er, for the Angel God's succession."

Qian Daoliu shook his head, signaling not to say more.

"Even Qian Daoliu can't win? Who is this woman—could she be a god from the Divine Realm?"

In the Pope's Hall, Bibi Dong watched Qian Daoliu's defeat with mixed excitement and concern.

She was never one to shy from chaos, and if Spirit Hall fell, she would not mind.

But until her goals were achieved, Spirit Hall had value; she could not let it be destroyed by a Contamination point.

She ordered Chrysanthemum and Ghost Douluo, "Send more people. Don't let the Contamination point spread. Notify me of any change."

"Yes, Your Holiness!" The two exchanged glances and left.

By rights, they should have joined the battle, but without Bibi Dong's word, they dared not act.

Now that she had ordered, they would not stand by.

Though not as powerful as the worship elders, as peak Douluos, they were still among the top.

…

Meanwhile, in the sinister Slaughter City, a terrifying power erupted.

A massive pillar of flame shot skyward, breaking free of the earth's bounds.

The King of Slaughter, in blood-red attire and bat wings, gripped the Asura Demon Sword, face dark and angry, glaring at the white-haired youth with a flaming sword.

A single casual attack from this youth had destroyed the Slaughter City in an instant, countless lives snuffed out, leaving only ruin and despair.

"Bastard!" The King of Slaughter roared in anger and frustration.

Slaughter City was vital to him—it was his path to inheriting the Asura God's position.

Now, because of the Contamination point, all was lost.

He released a murderous sword light at the youth in an attempt to salvage the situation.

But the white-haired youth, his face cracked, remained expressionless, as if nothing in the world could move him.

Cold radiated from him, and as he raised his blazing sword, fire surged out, turning the Slaughter City into a sea of flames.

Within, countless evil souls were devoured by negative energy, becoming puppets—death soldiers and Honkai Beasts—making the army even stronger.

The flaming sword shone, its fire overwhelming.

The blood-red Asura Sword's brilliance seemed small by comparison, as if it could be swallowed by the flames at any moment.

The two swords clashed—like stars colliding, unleashing vast energy.

Air was sucked out of hundreds of meters around, forming a vacuum.

The King of Slaughter was shocked.

He wielded the Asura God's true artifact; few weapons could match it. Yet this red greatsword blocked it.

Was it a true artifact too?

Suddenly, despite the heat, a chill spread. He looked down to find his feet encased in ice.

Astonished, he wondered how someone could use ice and fire—opposing elements—each so strong.

Black Kevin remained expressionless, eyes void of emotion.

He pressed down with his flaming sword, sending the King of Slaughter flying, the sword aura splitting the city in two.

A gigantic white beast burst from the earth, bringing a blizzard and freezing dozens of kilometers.

Covered in black armor and crystalline ice, shaped like a boar, shrouded in mist—this was Emperor-class Honkai Beast Parvati.

Black Kevin leapt onto Parvati's head, raised his sword, and pointed at the King of Slaughter.

The King roared in anger, Asura God's power erupting, making blood sword light that could split the sky.

Mountains shattered, earth cracked, and a vast area became a battlefield.

Luckily, Slaughter City was remote, so few innocents were affected.

Still, the battle alarmed Spirit Hall and watching soul masters.

…

Out at sea, a realm full of peril and unknowns, a massive sapphire-blue whale over 200 meters long roared, waves surging.

The ocean boiled as blue ripples spread, but a second blue ripple appeared, contending for control.

A vortex formed, binding the whale.

Its opponent was a monster hundreds of meters long with nine water-serpent heads, exuding black aura and malice.

"That's the Deep Sea Demon Whale King! Who could be fighting it and suppressing it?"

Nearby, the Demon Soul Great White Shark Queen Xiao Bai watched in awe.

The Demon Whale King was the ocean's overlord, even Bo Saixi could only repel it with the Sea God's power.

Its body was almost divine, having survived nine tribulations; just one step from godhood.

Unlike Bo Saixi, who needed the Sea God's help, the Demon Whale King could rival Poseidon, though it lost and was blinded in one eye.

Though known as one of three ocean overlords, the Demon Whale King dwarfed the other two.

If not for its rarity, it would be the sole ruler of the sea.

Yet now, this overlord was being overwhelmed, a blue beam piercing its body.

Realizing defeat, the Demon Whale King fled into the depths.

Xiao Bai, terrified, led her clan in retreat to Sea God Island.

If someone could defeat the Demon Whale King, she had to warn the island.

If Lu Jingming were there, he would recognize the Overlord of the Vortex Osial as the victor.

After defeating the Demon Whale King, Osial did not pursue but continued absorbing negative energy.

As the sea flows, so does Osial—a moving Contamination point, always seeking denser negative energy.

Currently, it was moving in the same direction as the fleeing White Shark clan.

On Sea God Island, Sea God Douluo Bo Saixi, with her golden staff, red dress, and silver hair, stood dignified.

Sensing danger approaching, her intuition warned her of a grave threat.

The island, vast and dotted with seven cities, housed thousands of Sea God followers and formidable warriors.

Sea God Island's power was not to be underestimated, with Bo Saixi, seven Sacred Pillar Douluos, and 3,500 trained Sea God warriors—all sea soul masters, far stronger at sea than land-based ones.

Spirit Hall had once tried to take the island and lost, even losing two Titled Douluos.

Even the Demon Whale King dared not attack the island lightly.

But Bo Saixi felt no comfort, sensing the threat from afar.

She noticed the Demon Soul White Shark clan approaching.

Though fierce, the white sharks were the Sea God's mounts and allies.

"High Priest, bad news—the Demon Whale King was defeated!"

Xiao Bai, in human form, hurried to report.