Inside the secret chamber under the Crown Prince's mansion, Qian Renxue was a bit surprised to hear Guang Ling's words. She was well aware that Guang Ling had taken on a disciple. She also had some intelligence about Han Li and occasionally received letters from Qian Daoliu that mentioned relevant matters.
However, she hadn't expected Han Li to have reached level twenty already. His talent seemed even more terrifying than Bibi Dong's twin martial soul."
"Grandpa Guang Ling, if I remember correctly, he's only a bit over seven years old, not even eight yet, right?"
A strong sense of curiosity rose within Qian Renxue, mainly because her grandfather had mentioned in his letters that, in terms of both strength and intellect, Han Li would become her most reliable helper in the future.
"Yes, seven years and five months. But he's not just level twenty now; he's already reached level twenty-three. Don't forget, it was he who discovered that whale glue could effectively enhance physical strength in the early stages. This time, his second soul ring absorption reached a staggering 3,500 years. Even if his future cultivation slows down, he'll definitely reach level thirty by the age of nine."
Guang Ling spoke proudly of his disciple.
"That's indeed impressive. His level is almost catching up to mine at the same age."
Although Qian Renxue was praising Han Li, her emotions didn't fluctuate much. Han Li's cultivation speed was indeed fast, but compared to herself at the same age, his level was still a bit behind.
"Haha, if he could catch up to you, Xiaoxue, I'd laugh myself awake in my sleep."
Guang Ling also laughed. Although Qian Renxue's words seemed slightly off, he knew that the person in front of him was inherently a level twenty innate soul power. Her comparing her same-age self to his disciple was already extremely commendable.
Seeing Guang Ling's happy expression, Qian Renxue responded with a smile, "It looks like I need to take some time to return to Wuhun City and see this 'little master uncle' of mine."
"Huh, didn't you already meet him this afternoon?" Guang Ling asked in surprise.
"Met him this afternoon? No, I didn't."
Qian Renxue was also momentarily confused, searching her memory for the people she had met that afternoon.
"No, I was chatting with him before dinner. He said that he went to visit Heaven Dou Imperial Academy this afternoon and met you and Ning Fengzhi's daughter. He also mentioned that he admired your disguise as Xue Qinghe."
Seeing Qian Renxue's expression of genuine surprise, Guang Ling spilled the beans about his conversation with Han Li.
Me and Ning Rongrong? Visiting, Han Li? Xiao Yan?
With Guang Ling's hint, Qian Renxue extracted the corresponding images from her memory.
"So, it was him. I didn't recognize him. Grandpa Guang Ling, your disciple is indeed, uh, cautious. When I asked for his name, he told me he was called Xiao Yan and acted very loyal when I tried to recruit him."
Qian Renxue spoke somewhat helplessly. She had often heard from Qian Daoliu's letters that Han Li's thinking and behavior were somewhat unconventional. But she hadn't expected that he would use a false name and put on an act in front of the Crown Prince while visiting Heaven Dou Imperial Academy.
"Xiao Li's personality is indeed a bit different from the average person. I'll have a good talk with him when I return."
Guang Ling smiled somewhat awkwardly. He hadn't expected Han Li to pull off such a stunt, especially in front of Qian Renxue. The key point was that Han Li hadn't communicated this to him, which made it a bit embarrassing.
However, he recalled what Han Li said afterward and quickly added, "But he did have high praise for you. What did he say again? Oh, right, it was, 'As jade-like as a gentleman, unparalleled in the world.' He also mentioned that you have a great temperament, are very approachable, and have the demeanor of someone in a high position."
"As jade-like as a gentleman, unparalleled in the world. He does have a good eye."
No matter what, Qian Renxue was still just a teenage girl. And now, in front of someone she was close to, she didn't hide her emotions, which had been suppressed for a long time.
Even though Han Li's praise was directed at her disguised identity as Xue Qinghe, she couldn't help but smile. Receiving such an evaluation meant her disguise was perfect.
Hmm, she decided not to hold a grudge against Han Li for deceiving her, considering he was in Heaven Dou City and was simply being cautious, which was entirely understandable.
However, he did make a small mistake. She would find a reason to remove the guards and that staff member from the academy and change the registered name to Xiao Yan to ensure everything was foolproof, Qian Renxue thought secretly.
"Xiaoxue? Xiaoxue?"
Guang Ling waved his hand in front of Qian Renxue's face, wondering what she was thinking about.
"Are you too tired? I'll be in Heaven Dou City for a few more days. Maybe you should rest today, and I'll come see you another day?" Guang Ling suggested, thinking she might be exhausted.
"No, Grandpa Guang Ling, I was just thinking about something. It's no problem." Qian Renxue snapped out of her thoughts and gave a sweet smile.
Of all the Worshipes in the Hall of Worship, besides her grandfather, Guang Ling had the closest relationship with her. While the others were very fond of her as well, they were more reserved. Only Guang Ling would "secretly" accompany her to play when she was younger, which was why she was so happy to see him. Unfortunately, she had grown up and was now undercover, unable to be as carefree as before.
"Xiao Xue, if you ever get tired of this, just come back. No one will blame you. You should be as radiant as an angel, and it's alright if you don't carry out this mission."
Guang Ling sensed a deep-seated loneliness in her eyes and spoke directly.
Hearing Guang Ling's words, Qian Renxue's eyes became a bit moist. She could tell he was sincere.
She quickly turned her head to control her emotions. After a moment, she turned back with a smile, trying to appear relaxed. "Don't worry, Grandpa Guang Ling, I can do this. This is the last plan my father left, and I don't want to give up easily. Besides, I also want to prove to that woman that this plan is not worthless."
Seeing her determination, Guang Ling sighed and changed the topic to something lighter. Laughter occasionally echoed in the secret chamber as they chatted.
It wasn't until the sky outside began to lighten that Ci Xue re-entered the chamber to remind them the time was up. Qian Renxue reluctantly escorted Guang Ling to the door.
Despite not sleeping all night, Qian Renxue showed no signs of fatigue. Instead, she seemed more energetic than before, and her mood visibly improved.
"Alright, Your Highness, I'll be leaving now. Over the next few days, I'll be taking Han Li around Heaven Dou City, so I won't be coming to see you. Take care of yourself. And remember what I said, no one will blame you, understand?" Guang Ling pulled up his hood again and spoke softly before leaving.
"Yes, I understand, Worship Guang Ling."
This time, Qian Renxue did not let her emotions show. She had already reverted to her Xue Qinghe persona. In front of Ci Xue and She Long, as proud as she was, she would neither want nor allow herself to display any weakness. She was the pride of the Qian family and the future master of the Martial Soul Hall.
"Alright, I'll be off then. Before I leave, I'll have someone send a message over."
After speaking, Guang Ling turned towards Ci Xue and She Long.
"You two, protect Her Highness well."
"Yes, Fifth Worship," Ci Xue and She Long nodded heavily.
With that, Guang Ling said no more. Taking advantage of the early dawn, he concealed his presence and headed towards the Spirit Hall.
Qian Renxue, or rather Xue Qinghe, did not pay attention to the two titled Douluo and stood in the courtyard for a long time until the servants cautiously came to remind him that it was time for his morning routine.
Only then did he turn around, smiling as usual to the servants, and began a new day.
Inside the Spirit Hall, as sunlight streamed in, Han Li woke up right on time.
He had to admit, the quality of sleep last night was quite good.
After a simple wash, Han Li slowly performed a set of moves from the improved "Phoenix Dance of Nine Heavens," feeling his body rejuvenate, putting him in a good mood.
By the way, he had suppressed his perception last night, so he didn't know when his master had returned or if his indirect flattery had been conveyed.
Just as he thought of this, there was a knock on his door. Outside was Guang Ling, carrying breakfast.
Opening the door, Han Li greeted his master, who also seemed to be in a good mood.
"Good morning, Master."
"Good morning. How are you finding the accommodations?" Guang Ling asked casually.
"Not bad."
Han Li took the breakfast from him, ushered him in, and set the food box on the table, opening it as he spoke. "I tried last night. Today, let's head in that direction."
As he spoke, he pointed toward the direction of the Sunset Forest.
Guang Ling followed his finger and thought for a moment. "The Sunset Forest?"
"Very likely. Only a place like a soul beast forest could hide such treasures."
Han Li took a bite of a bun, swallowed it, and then responded.
"The Sunset Forest is just over a hundred miles from Heaven Dou City, not far. We'll walk there, and it can count as your training for the day. By the way, do you still have enough food in your wristband?" Guang Ling thought for a moment and looked at Han Li, who was eating.
Han Li glanced at his storage wristband and replied, "It's enough. Lasting a week is no problem. Besides, we won't lack food once we're there."
"Alright, let's head out as soon as you're done eating," Guang Ling decided cheerfully.
"Alright."
Han Li began to eat faster.
After quickly finishing their meal, they went to greet Sebastian, instructing him to stay on standby. The two of them then changed into clothes that would help conceal their identities and headed out of the city.
After walking a while outside the city, Guang Ling sped up slightly. When he turned to look back, he expected to see Han Li struggling to keep up, but to his surprise, Han Li was following easily, appearing relaxed and even taking the time to enjoy the scenery along the way.
"Hmm?"
Guang Ling watched for a while and noticed that Han Li was different from him. Instead of wrapping his legs with soul power, Han Li's feet emitted a slight soul power fluctuation every time he landed. Moreover, there were faint red and blue flashes accompanying the fluctuations.
Guang Ling slowed down and walked alongside Han Li, casually pointing to his feet.
"What's with your feet? Is this a new acceleration technique? Not bad."
Han Li glanced at his sneaky master, not minding his "stealth learning," and chuckled. "Yes, it's an idea I've had for a while. I call it 'Burst Step,' or 'Eight Steps to Catch a Cicada.' The principle is simple: I control fire elements to create an explosion at my feet when I exert force. The energy rebounds off the ground, propelling me forward."
"As for the ice element, it's to protect my lower limbs from injury. Unfortunately, the uneven ground makes it tricky. It would be best on a smooth arena or an ice surface. With my control over the ice element, I wouldn't even need to lift my feet."
"I started experimenting with this after obtaining my second soul ring, which allows me to control elements. It's not perfect yet. My lower limbs can't handle sustained use; I can only use it occasionally for long-distance travel to save some energy. In a real fight, I could probably only use it two or three times before needing a rest."
"Just a little trick, nothing worth mentioning." Han Li waved his hand dismissively, acting as if it were basic practice.
Seeing Han Li's smug expression, with his hands behind his back looking quite pleased with himself, Guang Ling felt the urge to smack him on the head. But he calmed himself, thinking, "He's my disciple, I chose him. Stay calm."
After calming himself, Guang Ling, having understood the principle, wanted to try it himself. He moved a bit away from Han Li and began his attempt.
Adjusting his steps, Guang Ling tried it out, but the result was unexpected.
With a loud "boom," a pit appeared under Guang Ling's foot. However, instead of propelling him forward, all the explosive force impacted the ground, and his shoe was destroyed in the process.
Covered in dust and looking quite disheveled, Guang Ling stood there.
Seeing the amusing result of his master's attempt, Han Li quickly covered his mouth to stifle his laughter. He stopped walking and turned away, trying to compose himself.
Only when he heard Guang Ling's coughing did Han Li turn back, pretending nothing had happened, and walk over.
By then, Guang Ling had changed into a new pair of shoes. With a still-slightly-dark expression and a threatening look, he said, "You saw nothing just now."
Han Li nodded quickly. "Mm-hmm, I saw nothing at all."
Then, he pretended to casually say, "Oh, Master, I forgot to mention earlier. When trying the Burst Step, to prevent the ground from breaking under the force, you can first use soul power to form a mirror-like surface below. This will distribute the force to the surrounding ground, making the recoil easier to control."
Seeing him nodding quickly and even taking the blame for his teaching mistake, Guang Ling was satisfied. He patted Han Li's shoulder kindly, thinking, "This kid can be taught."
The two set off again. Learning from the previous failure and with Han Li's further explanation, Guang Ling finally mastered the output and rhythm after more than ten failures and began running with some semblance of success.
After some attempts, Guang Ling noticed that using the Burst Step did indeed make traveling faster than simply enhancing his legs with soul power. However, this method required much higher pressure on the lower limbs and more precise soul power control.
"In front of others, it's better to use the regular method for traveling. This step technique is easy to learn by others and is more suitable for bursts of speed and combat, catching the enemy off guard. After you obtain a soul bone, or perhaps in future battles, you can disguise it with soul skills as a supplementary attack method. Using it solely for travel is too extravagant and easily exposes it."
After playing with it for a while, Guang Ling slowed his pace and fell back beside Han Li, seriously reminding him.
"Mm, I know. But it's just the two of us here, and this doesn't depend on martial souls, so it's useful for you too," Han Li nodded and smiled.
He had indeed deliberately used it in this situation. His mind was full of ideas, and Burst Step was a practical little trick that wasn't limited by martial souls; it could be used through practice.
Taking advantage of this opportunity, under the guise of training elemental control, he gradually demonstrated some things to Guang Ling. This way, he could increase his master's power while slowly getting him accustomed to his changes.
After all, with the advancement in elemental control, he anticipated using a bunch of so-called little tricks and self-created soul skills in the future. It would be better to ease Guang Ling into it now.
Hearing his words, Guang Ling smiled, patted his head, and said nothing. He continued to practice the newly learned technique, trying to cover his entire lower limbs, enhancing the power of soul power compression explosions for stronger bursts.
Over the past year, he had gradually accepted Han Li's uniqueness. Spending time together day and night, he had long embraced this child, initially assigned to him by the Grand WOrship but later found to have a fun personality.
Although their relationship differed from most master-disciple pairs, so what? Guang Ling didn't need others to comment on how he raised his disciple. Besides, this kid always remembered him when there were benefits, often more considerate than most sons. That's why he was willing to accompany this kid everywhere, despite being in the crucial phase of accumulating soul power to break through to level 98. He truly treated his disciple like a son.
Thus, the master and disciple familiarized themselves with the new skill while traveling, finally reaching the edge of Sunset Forest at one o'clock in the afternoon.
"Master, take me up in the air. I feel something is calling me."
Han Li closed his eyes, pretending to sense something, then opened them and said to Guang Ling.
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