DD Spiritual Sword [429-431] (Patreon)

Chapter 429: Cross-Generational Friendship — Shui Bing'er and Yang Wudi

At Heaven Dou Royal Academy, it's been a year since the last tournament ended, but many students are still basking in the joy and pride.

Indeed, not only are they not ashamed, they actually feel very honored. Even though they didn't win the championship, they managed to secure second place, suppressing Star Luo Royal Academy.

No one considers that all their achievements are entirely due to Shui Bing'er's efforts. Even the students they sent out, as long as they didn't drag her down by being instantly defeated, perhaps they stood a real chance at victory with her.

"A bunch of useless people—proud of what should be shameful!" Huo Wu gritted her teeth as she watched the group of decadent nobles.

"Little sister, don't speak recklessly!" Huo Wushuang hurriedly tried to stop her. This wasn't their original Blazing Academy; that campus had long since been taken over by a branch of the Spirit Hall Academy. Now, they were under someone else's roof, surrounded by imperial nobles. Offending anyone here would be unwise.

"Hmph. Wushuang, Huo Wu isn't wrong. This time, we got screwed over by Jun Tianlin. If not for him, we wouldn't have thought so highly of this academy and come here. If we'd known, we'd have gone to that Shrek place instead." Feng Xiaotian firmly sided with Huo Wu. As vice-dean of the Elemental Academy, he was extremely frustrated with the students' lack of spirit, even blaming Tianlin for it.

"Where's Bing'er?" Xue Wu suddenly realized Shui Bing'er was missing. The few of them were a small group who still held onto their original intentions in this flamboyant academy, just like the original Emperor Battle Team.

"Sis has been constantly harassed by the Crown Prince and is hiding again," Shui Yue'er said helplessly.

Currently, Shui Bing'er was the number one goddess in the academy—stunningly beautiful, with a top-tier martial soul and extraordinary talent. She led the academy all the way to the finals of the Soul Master Tournament. The number of students pursuing her could line up from the Heaven Dou city gate to the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect.

The most aggressive pursuer was none other than the current Crown Prince, Xue Beng.

Tang San and Tang Hao had not been heard from for nearly three years. Anyone with sense could guess something must have happened to them. Even if Tang San was cultivating in seclusion, he'd have sent a letter. And Tang Hao, who only went to hunt soul beasts, hadn't returned even once in three years.

Both the imperial family and the Clear Sky Sect were anxious, sending out countless people to search. But, they had already been killed and disposed of by Tianlin. No matter how hard anyone searched, they'd never find them.

To Xue Beng, these two were vital—not just as a bridge between the Heaven Dou Empire and Clear Sky Sect, but as formidable fighters. Tang San had the potential for a Title Douluo, while Tang Hao was already one of the top Super Douluo.

Not to mention, Tang San's hidden weapons were the core of the Tang Army. Although he left basic blueprints like the Zhuge Crossbow and Silent Sleeve Dart with Tai Tan, the Tang Army equipped only with these could barely handle Soul Kings and below. Against higher-level enemies, their effectiveness was greatly reduced.

When the Grandmaster first suggested fighting against Spirit Hall's Soul Master Corps, the real hope was on Buddha Fury Tang Lotus and Rainstorm Pear Blossom Needles.

Unless Spirit Hall's top fighting force was neutralized, nothing else would matter.

But only Tang San had the blueprints for these advanced hidden weapons. Even if Tai Tan was a divine craftsman, he couldn't make them without Tang San.

Xue Beng was never one to wait around. Since Tang San was likely in trouble, he sought other allies—the deans of the Elemental Academies, all at the Soul Douluo level, capable of fighting the new Five Sects' leaders from Spirit Hall.

The students were all extremely talented; the top few were not much weaker than the old Emperor Battle Team. Especially Shui Bing'er: beautiful, cool, and more gifted than Feng Xiaotian—she was destined to become a Title Douluo.

Xue Beng intended to win her over just as he had with Tang San. Since Tang San was male, brotherhood was ideal. For a beauty like Shui Bing'er, marriage was the most secure way.

In this, Xue Beng was somewhat like Tianlin—they both liked recruiting outside talents. The difference was Tianlin wanted them to join voluntarily, while Xue Beng was less scrupulous.

Shui Bing'er was sensible. Though she disliked Xue Beng, she never decisively rejected him—doing so would embarrass the Crown Prince, and since they were under the imperial family's protection, they couldn't afford to offend Heaven Dou royalty.

Otherwise, they'd be caught between Spirit Hall and the imperial family, with no place left for the Elemental Academy on the entire continent.

So the best she could do was hide, staying out of sight every day so Xue Beng couldn't find her.

"Hmph, toad lusting after a swan! Even if Xue Beng is a prince, he's not worthy of Bing'er," Huo Wu scoffed.

Xue Beng might look wise, but Huo Wu noticed the possessiveness in his gaze. If she weren't already engaged to Feng Xiaotian, Xue Beng might have pursued her as well.

"Where would Bing'er go?" Xue Wu asked worriedly.

"Where else? Somewhere even Xue Beng wouldn't dare bother her," Feng Xiaotian guessed immediately. As vice-dean, he was sharper than most.

…

Midway up Seven Treasure Mountain, Shui Bing'er sat alone at the edge of a cliff, cultivating. The scenery was beautiful and tranquil—she loved it here.

"Hey, Miss Shui, hiding out here again?" A hearty voice called from behind.

She turned to see Yang Wudi, carrying a basket of herbs.

Yang Wudi often gathered herbs on the mountain, so over time, the two became familiar. After two years, they'd become close friends despite the age gap.

Yang Wudi greatly admired Shui Bing'er; her gentle personality, kind heart, and potential far surpassed his granddaughter Bai Chenxiang—even Ma Hongjun, without immortal herbs, couldn't match her.

"Senior Yang, you're gathering herbs yourself again?" Shui Bing'er smiled.

"Of course. Gathering and refining herbs is my greatest passion. I won't leave it to others." Yang Wudi sat beside her and opened his basket. "By the way, Miss Shui, I have something good to show you."

He took out a snow-white, silkworm-shaped plant.

"Senior, what is this?" Shui Bing'er asked curiously.

"This is a Snow Silkworm, an herb I've cultivated with the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well over the last two years. Miss Shui, I remember your Ice Phoenix martial soul is hard to control, right? When you go all out, it's easy to hurt others. That's why, even in the finals, you only used about seventy percent of your strength. If not, even the Golden Generation of Spirit Hall Academy might not be able to handle your Ice Phoenix even if they ganged up on you." Yang Wudi praised without reservation.

Shui Bing'er was a bit embarrassed. "That's too much, Senior."

"No need to be modest. I'm telling the truth. Spirit Hall's people bullied you with numbers and took advantage of your kindness. I can't stand it, so I've decided to use this Snow Silkworm as the main ingredient to refine a Snow Spirit Pill for you. After taking it, your martial soul's strength might not change much, but I guarantee you'll be able to control it perfectly." Yang Wudi promised.

Shui Bing'er was overjoyed. "Senior, do you really mean it?"

Being able to control her Ice Phoenix martial soul was her long-held dream.

"Of course. It won't take long—just a month, and I'll have the pill ready for you."

Chapter 430: Coveting Shui Bing'er — Xue Beng's Goal

With Yang Wudi's promise, Shui Bing'er was in high spirits. If she could freely control her Ice Phoenix, she'd become even stronger. She and Feng Xiaotian were the only two in the Elemental Academy with the potential for Title Douluo. To truly escape their current situation, they had to reach that level.

If she could fully control her Ice Phoenix, she could put her all into cultivation and battle, speeding up her journey to Title Douluo.

By the time she returned to the academy, it was already night. She thought she wouldn't run into Xue Beng, but as soon as she entered, she heard that annoying voice: "Bing'er, where have you been? I've been waiting since morning!"

Xue Beng had actually waited at the academy all day. Back then, he'd played the role of a weakling for years just to survive and wait for an opportunity—his patience was definitely at Title Douluo level.

Shui Bing'er's expression turned awkward. She wanted to get angry but didn't dare, so she bowed and greeted him, "Greetings, Your Highness. I was just out for a stroll. I didn't know you were waiting for me. Please forgive me for making you wait."

"Also, since I often go out, I may not be in the academy. To avoid wasting your time, please just send a servant with any important matters in the future—there's no need for you to come personally."

She was already hinting at rejection.

"Bing'er, you're too polite. As long as I get to see you, I don't care how long I have to wait," Xue Beng replied sincerely. "I've already decided to spend my life by your side. If you're willing, you'll become the Empress of Heaven Dou Empire one day. No servant is worthy of speaking to you."

His confession was blunt, leaving Shui Bing'er helpless. "Thank you for your kindness, Your Highness, but I'm fully focused on cultivation now. I'm afraid I'll disappoint you."

"Marriage won't affect your cultivation. If you marry me, you'll have full access to the empire's resources, and as your husband, I'll do everything I can to help you reach Title Douluo sooner." Xue Beng pressed on.

Shui Bing'er didn't want to agree, but couldn't reject him outright and embarrass him. "Please allow me to consider it, Your Highness. It's late, I need to rest. Goodnight."

Delaying and leaving was her only option.

As she was about to leave, Xue Beng suddenly said, "Bing'er, I know you went to Seven Treasure Mountain today. The scenery is nice, but Heaven Dou Mountain is just as good. If it's just for the view, you don't need to go so far. Tell me, and I'll take you around every mountain in the empire."

"You had someone follow me?" Shui Bing'er was finally angry. Even if she was patient, she had her limits.

"How can that be called following? You went out alone; I had to have someone protect you in secret for peace of mind. Besides, you went to Seven Treasure Mountain. In recent years, Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect has grown timid, and rumors say they might surrender to Spirit Hall. I advise you to stay away from them," Xue Beng said shamelessly.

"Thank you for your concern, Your Highness. I know what I'm doing. Goodbye!" Shui Bing'er forced down her anger and left. She knew how much criticism the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect had faced recently.

Even the royal family and all anti-Spirit Hall forces were dissatisfied with them. Despite having two powerful swordsmen, they ignored Spirit Hall's expansion. When their disciples encountered Spirit Hall, they often retreated—cowardice written all over their faces.

In contrast, the Clear Sky Sect was relentless in fighting Spirit Hall, showing the pride of the continent's top sect, which earned the royal family's respect.

Now, in many people's minds, the two sects had completely opposite reputations: Clear Sky was brave and loyal, while the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect was seen as cowardly and two-faced.

Regarding this, Ning Fengzhi always just smiled.

Watching Shui Bing'er leave, Xue Beng snorted coldly, "Doesn't know what's good for her! Elemental Academy survives only because of us. Once she's mine, I'll make sure she knows my power in bed."

"Your Highness, I have an idea that will guarantee you win her over!" said a sycophantic attendant behind Xue Beng.

"Oh? What is it? If it works, you'll be handsomely rewarded," Xue Beng replied, interested. Shui Bing'er wasn't an ordinary girl—she had a powerful elder and was a top talent. He couldn't force her, so he was troubled.

"It's simple: have His Majesty formally propose marriage, and at the same time, spread rumors that Shui Bing'er has already agreed."

Xue Beng's eyes lit up. This was an open scheme. If the royal family proposed and Shui Bing'er's family refused, it would embarrass them. If rumors spread that she already agreed, refusing would become not just an insult, but a crime against the crown. Unlike the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect, Elemental Academy didn't have the strength to resist.

Xue Beng nodded, "Good idea, but you said one thing wrong."

"I don't understand, please enlighten me."

"It's not a rumor—Shui Bing'er agreeing to marry me is a fact. I'm only proposing because she invited me to. Understand?" Xue Beng smiled.

"Yes, Your Highness. I'll make arrangements at once!" The attendant hurried off.

Xue Beng was smug. He wasn't just a lecher—he genuinely valued Shui Bing'er's beauty, but even more so her power.

There were three Soul Douluo behind her—enough to match a Title Douluo. The royal family only had eight Soul Douluo. If he won them over, their top fighting force would increase by nearly 50%.

Not to mention, Shui Bing'er herself was destined to become a Title Douluo. Once he became Emperor, he desperately needed a Title Douluo loyal to the crown. If she was his wife, even better.

Chapter 431: Breakthrough — Level 90

Back in her room, Shui Bing'er sat on her bed, biting her lip to hold back tears. She was strong, but facing Xue Beng's stalking and surveillance, she was powerless. All she could do was train harder, hoping to one day control her own destiny.

Meanwhile, back at the palace, Xue Beng told Emperor Xue Ye he wanted to marry Shui Bing'er and asked him to propose on his behalf.

Xue Ye didn't hesitate—Shui Bing'er had a Soul Douluo-level mother, a noble status, and great talent, making her a worthy match for the prince.

With the emperor's approval, Xue Beng returned to the Eastern Palace and sent people to spread news of his upcoming marriage to Shui Bing'er everywhere.

Shui Bing'er was not like Tianlin or Ning Rongrong. In this situation, she wouldn't dare confront the royal family. No matter how unwilling, to save face for the crown, she would have no choice but to marry.

Xue Beng was pleased, but his timing was off. Just as he was making preparations, someone who had always opposed him completed a crucial step.

At noon the next day, centering on the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect, the sky—originally clear—suddenly became overcast and it began to rain lightly.

No one thought much of it—a short rainstorm was nothing unusual. But it lasted less than a minute before the sun shone even brighter.

Then a gentle breeze blew, clouds gathered again, thunder rumbled.

On the ground, plants seemed to spring to life, growing rapidly.

Five different elemental phenomena alternated repeatedly—a true spectacle.

In Heaven Dou Royal Academy, Huo Wu looked at the sky in confusion. "What's going on? I've never seen weather like this. What's happening?"

"Is someone breaking through?" Feng Xiaotian's eyes widened. It was said that when a soul master broke through to Title Douluo level, their power would trigger some phenomena.

When Thunder Eagle Douluo Yin Yang broke through, there was thunder. When Ning Fengzhi broke through, a nine-colored light shot into the sky. When Sword Douluo broke through, sword energy split the heavens.

But those only lasted an instant. Now, the phenomena had gone on for over ten minutes and kept changing.

"This seems to be spreading from the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect," Shui Bing'er guessed.

At her words, Feng Xiaotian, Huo Wu, Xue Wu, and the others all thought of the same name.

At the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect, Ning Fengzhi, Gu Rong, Dugu Bo, and Yin Yang walked out of the main hall. Ning Fengzhi said, "Heh, such phenomena—clearly the manifestation of the five elements: water, fire, wind, thunder, and earth. Looks like Xiao Tian succeeded."

Gu Rong nodded. "Yes, gentle rain, warm sun, soft wind, thunder, and the earth's nurturing power—only his martial soul could cause this."

"Soul arises from the heart. This little monster's temperament didn't change even after training in the Slaughter City. If it were someone violent, the phenomena would be storms, blazing sun, hurricanes, thunder, and earthquakes," Dugu Bo laughed.

When he broke through, his poison turned a ten-mile radius into wasteland.

…

"Xiao Tian, you did it! Level 90!" In the secret chamber, the Skydream Iceworm cheered. After two and a half years, with extreme attributes and the Holy Spirit Domain, Tianlin achieved what most Soul Douluo couldn't in twenty years—reached level 90, just a soul ring short of Title Douluo.

"Yes, finally! Skydream, Xiao Bai, once I get my ninth ring, there's nowhere I can't go!" Tianlin was confident, sure he could match even veteran Super Douluo.

"Brat, you finally made it!" In the God Realm, the Asura God looked down with pride. He could see his chance to pass on his godhood and gain freedom was near.

"Then, this is your reward for completing the Fifth Trial!"

He threw a golden god-bestowed soul ring down.

Right then, Tianlin heard the Asura God's voice:[ "Fifth Trial complete. Reward: 15% Asura affinity, now at 55%. Also, a god-bestowed soul ring."]

["Sixth Trial: Changes are happening in the world, especially in Slaughter City. You are granted the Eye of Judgment—see the sins of men. Go to Slaughter City, find the truth, and purge all evil."]

"The sixth trial comes right after the fifth. Looks like Asura God is in a hurry. But he's being generous—Eye of Judgment is interesting. I won't worry about killing innocents by mistake. And the god-bestowed—wait, a god-bestowed soul ring!" Tianlin just realized how generous the god was being.

The year limit of a god-bestowed ring depended on the absorber's body and soul strength. With Tianlin's current state, at least half a million years should be possible.

A golden soul ring appeared before him. Tianlin took it. "So this is a god-bestowed ring? It really does contain divine power—and a lot of it."

"Strange, isn't a god-bestowed ring only supposed to have a tiny bit of divine power? But this ring's power seems way above that," Skydream wondered.

"Whatever. Anyway, Xiao Tian, absorb it! Push yourself to at least 800,000 years. Now that you're level 90, your million-year soul ring and bone are fully unlocked. Your body and spirit are the best in the world."

Tianlin had underestimated himself with 500,000 years—Skydream wanted 800,000.

But that was fine; Tianlin loved a challenge.

He sat cross-legged and began absorbing the ring. Instantly, the golden ring turned red and wrapped around his magic sword, with five golden lines on it.

This god-bestowed ring started at 500,000 years. Now, it depended how far Tianlin could push it.