DD Spiritual Sword [525-527] (Patreon)

Chapter 525: Ning Rongrong's Display of Power

At the gates of Seven Treasure City, Xue Beng and the three education commissioners looked toward the streets inside the city, taking in the scene of peace and tranquility. The commissioners couldn't help but sigh. This place really is a land of paradise.

No matter how fierce the wars and chaos outside, it seemed this place was untouched, like a utopia apart from the world.

A young squad leader at the city gate, Xiao Yi, looked at the four and asked, "You seem to be outsiders. Are you here to visit Seven Treasure City?"

Meng Shenji responded, "No, we are here on behalf of the Heaven Dou Empire to discuss important matters with Sect Leader Ning. I am Meng Shenji, a commissioner from Heaven Dou Imperial Academy. Brother, is there anything we need to know about entering the city right now? Or is it that due to the war outside, outsiders aren't allowed in?"

"So it's Senior Meng Shenji. I apologize for the offense," Xiao Yi replied respectfully. "Rest assured, we haven't closed the city gates. Seven Treasure City has always allowed free entry. I stopped you because of your fine attire—I thought you might be nobles from the Heaven Dou Empire. Our city's policies are very different from the empire's. If nobles and commoners have conflicts without reason, nobles are punished just like anyone else. I was just afraid you might not know this rule, so I stopped you to remind you."

Upon hearing this, Xue Beng frowned slightly. The two leaders of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect, one was Xue Qinghe's former teacher, the other his sworn brother. They shared Xue Qinghe's ideals. Xue Beng really couldn't understand. Nobles and soul masters were the mainstream of this world—why did these people care so much about powerless commoners?

"Alright, we understand. Thank you," Meng Shenji nodded to Xiao Yi and walked into the city.

Xue Beng was displeased. Usually, when he walked down the street, commoners would respectfully stand aside and bow, only daring to lift their heads after he had completely passed by. But here, people went about their business—shopping, chatting, as if they hadn't even noticed him.

This was completely normal in Seven Treasure City. Not to mention Xue Beng—even if Tianlin himself walked here, people would react the same way, though perhaps with a bit more enthusiasm, maybe asking if he needed to take home some groceries. Some children might pester him to teach them swordsmanship. After all, the residents at the city gate were originally villagers from Seven Treasure Village, many of whom were Tianlin's elders or juniors.

Ever since the outbreak of all-out war after the Grandmaster's death a year ago, Tianlin had brought all the villagers from the base of the mountain to live in the city, to protect them from the ravages of war.

Xue Beng wanted to lose his temper, but Bai Baoshan hurriedly stopped him. "Your Highness, calm down. This is not Heaven Dou City. We're here to ask for help, not to offend the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect again."

"Hmph, a bunch of people with no sense of hierarchy. One day, I'll set things right," Xue Beng muttered angrily.

"Hierarchy? Who says we don't have one?" A pleasant female voice came from ahead. "My Sword Brother said, 'Those with virtue and manners are above, those without are below. The low should bow their heads in shame before the high.' Isn't this similar to your empire's rules? Only the standards for judgment are different."

"Ning Rongrong!" Xue Beng was stunned by the beauty before him. Compared to years ago, Ning Rongrong had shed her youthfulness, her figure graceful, her demeanor serene, and she exuded an even nobler aura than himself. Especially the trident mark on her forehead, which added a sense of mystery.

Behind her followed another beautiful young woman with long blue hair and a cool temperament—Shui Bing'er.

As soon as Xue Beng and his group entered the city, disciples of the Speed Clan reported to Ning Fengzhi, who then sent Ning Rongrong and Shui Bing'er to greet them—clearly meant to annoy Xue Beng.

Xue Beng felt a surge of heat in his heart. He had planned to propose to both women back in the day, but thanks to Jun Tianlin's interference, both had slipped from his grasp.

"I just received a message from the Speed Clan that the three commissioners and Prince Xue Beng are here to visit. As Young Sect Leader, I've come to greet you," Ning Rongrong bowed to the commissioners, then looked at Xue Beng. "Your Highness, wasn't the lesson my Sword Brother gave you enough last time? If you keep staring at me like that, don't blame me for gouging out your eyes!"

As she spoke, Ning Rongrong's aura suddenly exploded, an overwhelming pressure instantly rendering Xue Beng and the commissioners immobile.

Bai Baoshan was shocked: "How is this possible? Isn't Ning Rongrong a support-type soul master? Why does she have the aura of an assault-type? And her level is above mine—how old is she? Another monster like Tianlin?"

"Rongrong, calm down. If someone needs a lesson, let your Brother Yu Feng handle it. No need to dirty your hands," said Yu Feng, who appeared silently behind the four, four razor-sharp Windbell Bird feathers pointed at the back of their heads.

"Brother Yu Feng, don't be rude to the commissioners—they are your elders and Sword Brother's as well," Ning Rongrong said.

"Yes!" Yu Feng understood immediately. He hadn't really intended to attack the commissioners, only to give a show of force.

All four feathers now pointed at Xue Beng—two at his temples, two at his brow and the back of his head. At Ning Rongrong's command, they would pierce his skull.

"Miss Ning, please calm down. I meant no offense—just momentarily lost myself, captivated by your beauty. I won't do it again," Xue Beng quickly apologized. He was skilled at this—he'd groveled for years just to survive.

Ning Rongrong smiled slightly, and Yu Feng immediately withdrew the feathers, moving to stand behind her.

"That speed! Even Yu Feng's strength is now on par with ours," Meng Shenji thought, not angry but extremely gratified, since Yu Feng was also a graduate of their academy.

Moreover, he hadn't felt any killing intent from Yu Feng, even when the feathers were pointed at him—the hostility was all directed at Xue Beng, proving the child hadn't forgotten old kindness.

He wished he could see the other children too. If only Oslo hadn't died young, seeing the original team fight together against the Spirit Empire would've been his life's greatest honor.

Ning Rongrong said to the commissioners, "Since Prince Xue Beng realizes his mistake, I won't pursue it. But this is Seven Treasure City—please don't act like a crown prince here."

"I'm here on my father's orders to receive you. Please follow me to the Seven Treasure Grand Hall."

Ning Rongrong turned and led the way. Xue Beng finally breathed a sigh of relief. Zhi Lin commented, "What a display of power. The sect is clearly showing us the strength of their younger generation. Today's negotiations won't be easy—even Tianlin may not agree to send troops for our sake."

Bai Baoshan and Meng Shenji nodded. That was only natural. Even if Tianlin was present, the commissioners were respected, but nothing more. They had no right to interfere with the sect's policies.

Chapter 526: Negotiations – Let the Music and Dance Continue

Xue Beng followed Ning Rongrong into the Seven Treasure Grand Hall, where music and dance filled the air. Ning Fengzhi had deliberately created a relaxed, pleasant atmosphere—making Xue Beng and the commissioners feel he truly had no intention of joining the war, only seeking self-preservation.

With Chen Xin and Tianlin present, even the Spirit Empire couldn't touch them. They had already begun to enjoy life.

Thinking of the royal family's troubles, Xue Beng's anger surged. The sect had both martial and scholarly talent—Jun Tianlin and Ning Fengzhi—yet never thought to contribute to the nation, only to protect themselves.

"Greetings, Sect Leader Ning," Xue Beng forced himself to be polite. "You certainly seem at ease, enjoying song and dance while war rages outside."

"Hehe, no need for such formality, Your Highness. Please, sit," Ning Fengzhi invited him. "I have nothing to do—since the empire now has the support of the number one clan, the Clear Sky Sect, my sect has retreated to the sidelines."

"Sect Leader Ning, you shouldn't say that. With great power comes great responsibility. The Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect is now recognized as the number one sect. The Spirit Empire commits countless atrocities and unjust wars. Only you, Sword Douluo, and the Holy Demon Douluo can oppose them," Xue Beng said.

"Oh, really? But I heard that it was the Clear Sky Sect who killed a Spirit Empire honorary elder without cause. They only seek revenge for their own. Since the empire is allied with the Clear Sky Sect, it's only natural to become a target. How can you say the Spirit Empire is in the wrong? The feud between the Spirit Empire and the Clear Sky Sect is not for us to meddle in," Ning Rongrong said, sitting in the vice sect leader's seat. "Here's a suggestion: why don't you hand over the Clear Sky Sect? If the Spirit Empire gets their heads, they'll have no more excuse to fight. If they still cause trouble, I'll persuade my father to help you—then you'll have just cause."

"You know the truth behind the Clear Sky Sect killing the Grandmaster, Miss Ning. No need to play dumb," Xue Beng said angrily. Handing over the Clear Sky Sect was impossible—it would leave the empire with no titled Douluos, making them easy prey.

He was also implying he knew the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect was the real culprit, even if he had no evidence.

"Hehe, Your Highness loves riddles. I'm too simple-minded to understand. But I heard from my husband, the root cause was the Clear Sky Sect trying to frame our sect. If you trace it back, Tianlin killed the Tang father and son because Tang Hao killed Oslo, and slaughtered soul beasts for their bones, violating the laws of all the factions. In the end, it's the Clear Sky Sect's fault."

Now you want us to save a faction that tried to frame us? You must be joking!

Shui Bing'er mocked, "Rongrong, that's Prince Xue Beng's usual tactic—distorting the facts. Didn't he do the same when he tried to force me to marry him?"

"Shui Bing'er, you!" Xue Beng slammed the table in anger.

"Your Highness, this is not your palace—don't act up here. Or do you want to threaten my daughter again?" Suddenly, a spear pointed at Xue Beng's back—it was Yang Wudi's Soulbreaking Spear.

He still bore a grudge for failing to kill Xue Beng in the palace years ago.

The dancing maids froze in fear, but Ning Fengzhi gently comforted them, "Don't be afraid—this has nothing to do with you. Continue the music and dance!"

"Father!" Shui Bing'er was delighted to see Yang Wudi stand up for her. She had never felt such fatherly protection before.

"Brother Yang, please stop!" Bai Baoshan quickly summoned his Heavenly Star Furnace to block the spear. One was the strongest offense, the other the strongest defense—if they fought, it would be hard to tell who'd win.

"Hmph, then tell Xue Beng to watch his tone. If he scares my daughter, I'll kill him on the spot, no matter his status," Yang Wudi snorted, but withdrew the spear. Ning Fengzhi had told him to just scare, not kill, Xue Beng today.

Xue Beng broke into a cold sweat, suddenly remembering that Shui Bing'er was no longer a rootless nobody—she now had family backing her and wasn't afraid of him.

Meng Shenji, an old fox, saw through it. The sect was making it clear they didn't want to join the war, hoping to drive the empire's delegates away.

But no matter the humiliation, they had to endure it. If the sect didn't help, the empire was finished.

"Sect Leader Ning, I know you're disheartened by the empire's actions, but the people are innocent. The Spirit Empire, under the guise of revenge, has caused countless refugees. If you don't act, the empire will fall—and if it does, the Star Luo Empire will be alone. Once the Spirit Empire unites the land, they won't tolerate your sect either," Meng Shenji pleaded. "I know with Tianlin and Sword Douluo, they can't destroy you, but they can use public opinion or economic means to hinder your development. Will you start another war then?"

Ning Fengzhi sneered, "Limit us with public opinion and economics? Haven't you already done so? The Spirit Empire and your empire—what's the difference to us?"

"That..." Meng Shenji was at a loss. Indeed, what difference did it make?

"That was my fault," Xue Beng said, regaining his composure. "Because of the incident with Shui Bing'er, I ordered restrictions on your sect out of anger. That was impulsive. I hope, for the sake of my youth and ignorance, you'll let it go. I'm willing to compensate your sect and Miss Shui Bing'er."

Chapter 527: Ning Fengzhi's Three Conditions

"Compensation? And how do you plan to compensate?" Ning Rongrong asked with interest. After so long with Tianlin, she too had learned to enjoy squeezing benefits.

Ning Fengzhi actually had other goals today, but extra rewards were always welcome.

"For the economic losses your sect suffered this past year, the Heaven Dou Empire will repay double. For the emotional harm to Miss Shui Bing'er, I'll offer two ten-thousand-year soul bones as compensation." Xue Beng was going all out—money was one thing, but when he proposed to Shui Bing'er before, the betrothal gift was only one soul bone; now he was offering two.

"Very well, since the Crown Prince is so sincere, the matter is settled. Sect Leader, Rongrong, my anger is gone—thank you for standing up for me," Shui Bing'er said, knowing when to stop. The compensation was generous, and today Ning Fengzhi had bigger business to attend to.

Ning Fengzhi looked at Shui Bing'er with approval—polite, measured, knowing when to quit. No wonder Tianlin and Old Yang liked her so much.

"Fine, it's your personal matter—you decide," Ning Fengzhi said. "Now, let's talk business. I hear you plan to move the capital?"

The four were shocked. Only a handful knew about the plan to move the capital. How did Ning Fengzhi know?

Ning Fengzhi looked at them. "Don't take others for fools. You know very well—even if our sect helps, we can't hold out for long."

"Let me be blunt. The empire will never truly trust our sect, and likewise, we will never truly trust your empire. So, we will always prioritize preserving our own strength. If we fight the Spirit Empire to mutual exhaustion, what if you seize the opportunity to finish us off?"

"Therefore, we will never go all out. Self-preservation is most important, and with our current strength, we can easily do that."

"I know your real plan: you need time. First, to train more hidden weapon troops to counter the Spirit Empire's soul master army. Second, to wait for Star Luo's pincer attack. So you need to avoid the Spirit Empire's assault and moving the capital is your only option."

Ning Fengzhi was uncharacteristically direct, laying everything bare. Xue Beng had no rebuttal—any denial was pointless. Ning Fengzhi was telling the truth. If both sides exhausted themselves, the empire would swoop in.

"Damn, this guy is sharp—he's figured out our whole plan," Xue Beng thought bitterly. Negotiating when the other side knows your secrets is always a disadvantage.

"Since you already know, I won't hide it. You're right—we need time, and only your sect can buy it for us. I understand your concerns and can accept them. All I ask is that you hold out for six months. Any conditions, name them," Xue Beng said.

Ning Fengzhi smiled. This was what he'd been waiting for. "Very well, Your Highness is straightforward. Here are my conditions: Although we are strong, we have only six thousand soul masters, all up in the mountains. How can we defend against outside threats?"

"So, I have three conditions. First, since you're moving the capital, leave Heaven Dou City to us as our base. Second, when you leave, don't take anything—from the national treasury to the commoners, not a coin. War needs resources. Third, leave us three hundred thousand troops. We can't rely on just six thousand soul masters for war."

"If you can do this, I guarantee—even for a year, the Spirit Empire won't advance another step."

After hearing Ning Fengzhi's conditions, Xue Beng fell into deep thought. He understood all three. He could accept the first two—no city, no resources, no troops, how could the sect fight?

Losing the capital was humiliating, but the bigger picture mattered. As long as they defeated the Spirit Empire later, face could be restored.

But the last condition—three hundred thousand troops! The empire had a million soldiers, had lost three hundred thousand at Jialing Pass, and only had seven hundred thousand left. Giving up another three hundred thousand would leave only four hundred thousand, not knowing how many the sect would lose. If all were lost, even if they defeated the Spirit Empire, Star Luo would swallow them up.

"Hehe, don't worry, Your Highness—I won't let the three hundred thousand soldiers die needlessly. And after we defeat the Spirit Empire, my sect will help deal with Star Luo too. After all, as a sect, a divided continent is better for survival than a unified one, isn't it?" Seeing Xue Beng's hesitation, Ning Fengzhi laughed.

"Fine, I can agree. But I won't hand over command of the three hundred thousand directly. I'll have Marshal Ge Long's deputy help you defend the city. He'll obey your orders during the defense and won't interfere with your decisions," Xue Beng said, unwilling to hand over full military command.

"That's fine. He can be deputy, but I'll appoint the commander," Ning Fengzhi said indifferently. Once the command token was in the sect's hands, it hardly mattered.

If necessary, Tianlin could use temporary mind control to make the marshal hand over command.

If not for the high cost of Tianlin's ultimate mind control—draining spiritual power beyond recovery—Ning Fengzhi might have just suggested controlling Xue Beng and taking over the empire.

But now, with the Evil Sword Immortal lurking, nothing could be done that might weaken Tianlin.

Tianlin had only used this move twice—once on Lofchy from Balak Academy, not knowing the price, and once on Hu Liena to save his family during a soul hunt.

Now, it couldn't be used lightly. A single misstep could doom the continent.

Besides, there was actually another way to control the empire...