Chapter 161: Expulsion
The grand finale, the last match of today's competition, marked the conclusion of this year's Spirit Master Tournament. After this, the tournament would go dormant for several years once again.
The Spirit Hall Team, widely regarded as the strongest team in this tournament and past champion of multiple intercontinental elite Spirit Master competitions, boasted three Spirit Kings and the reputation of being the "Golden Generation."
However, to everyone's shock, this championship-dominating team seemed on the verge of defeat today...
In the final match, Tang San displayed extraordinary power. Although he was merely a Spirit Ancestor, he managed to defeat the formidable Yaomei—an opponent comparable to a Spirit Sage—with a single punch. It was terrifying, overwhelmingly strong.
Initially, Shrek Academy had been entirely suppressed, struggling against their opponents. Yet, within just one minute, the tide shifted so dramatically that the Spirit Hall Team's seven members were poised to lose.
Everyone in attendance was in disbelief, including Poison Douluo and Yu Xiaogang. None of them had expected such a turn of events. It was utterly shocking.
Chen Xuan felt suspicious. Something was off. Tang San's strength today was unreasonably exaggerated. After all, his spirit power was only at rank 42. Even with the Eight Spider Lances' external spirit bone providing a 50% boost, it should have been difficult to compete with Yaomei, let alone defeat her and both Hu Liena and Xie Yue effortlessly.
"Could someone have interfered?" he speculated, though he found the idea implausible.
If someone had tampered with the match, Spirit Hall's Supreme Pontiff, Bibi Dong—one of the continent's top powerhouses—would surely have noticed.
"Unless…" Chen Xuan looked up at the vast blue sky. "Unless they're not from this world."
He lacked sufficient information to uncover the truth.
Not long after, a final resounding impact echoed from the arena, followed by silence.
The referee sighed repeatedly as he walked onto the stage with a look of disappointment.
With a bitter expression, he reluctantly announced, "The Spirit Hall Team is eliminated. I hereby declare the victor of this match: Shrek Academy!"
Tang San's performance today was almost as if he were on steroids—ferociously strong, beyond reason, and highly abnormal.
"We lost?"
This outcome struck Spirit Hall like a bolt from the blue. No matter how hard they tried to rationalize it, none of them could have predicted such a scene: the Spirit Hall Team, undefeated in countless competitions, losing today.
Whether in terms of lineup, spirit power, or fusion techniques, the Spirit Hall Team held every advantage and should have crushed Shrek Academy. But the reality before them was undeniable: the three members of the Golden Generation had indeed lost.
The shock left many in a daze, unable to process what had just happened.
"Did... we just win?"
Flender, Liu Erlong, and Qin Ming were dumbfounded. It took a long time for them to recover and accept the truth.
"Tang San, I knew I wasn't wrong about you!" Yu Xiaogang's face lit up with a gratified smile. "As my disciple, you've proven yourself capable of turning the tide and snatching victory from the jaws of defeat even in adverse situations."
"Well done, Tang San! I knew you could do it!" Dai Mubai laughed heartily.
At this moment, the most bewildered person was none other than Chen Xuan. The victory was far too easy. In the original timeline, even with the devastating Netherworld White Tiger, Shrek had only managed a narrow victory. Furthermore, Tang San's external spirit bone had been shattered by Yaomei back then.
"Come down and join the award ceremony, Chen Xuan." Flender, overjoyed by their victory, didn't want to dwell on his grudge against the young man.
Liu Erlong gave Chen Xuan a cold, mocking glance before pushing Yu Xiaogang's wheelchair toward the stage.
"Some people are just too arrogant, thinking the world stops without them," Yu Xiaogang raised his voice, clearly targeting Chen Xuan and venting his pent-up anger. "Even without him, Shrek can still claim the championship."
Yu Xiaogang's tone was filled with disdain as he took this moment to showcase his teaching prowess. Without his careful guidance, how could Shrek Academy have reached this pinnacle?
The three of them had long been dissatisfied with Chen Xuan. They had tolerated him only because they needed his strength. Now that the competition was over, this troublemaker—who frequently defied his elders and humiliated Yu Xiaogang—was no longer welcome.
Yu Xiaogang had already made up his mind. He would expel Chen Xuan in front of everyone. From this moment onward, Shrek Academy would no longer recognize him as a student.
The Golden Iron Triangle's hierarchy was clear, with Yu Xiaogang occupying the corner of wisdom. Neither Flender nor Liu Erlong would oppose his decision; in fact, they would support it.
Chen Xuan noticed their shifting attitudes. He had expected this all along. Yu Xiaogang, who had been stifled for so long, finally had an opportunity to gloat—how could he not seize it?
"This is a so-called 'wise man'?" Chen Xuan muttered to himself, his tone laced with irony.
It seemed everyone's intelligence had taken a nosedive. In a battle so lopsided, where three Spirit Kings failed to put up a fight and Shrek's Spirit Ancestors won so easily, wasn't anyone suspicious of the oddity?
Yu Xiaogang, self-proclaimed as both a theoretical and strategic genius, found nothing unusual. Instead, he acted as if it were entirely reasonable. Was he blinded by his eagerness for credit, or was his so-called wisdom merely a facade?
Chen Xuan leapt down from the high platform as the rest of Shrek's team, including the substitutes, gathered. Only he remained apart.
Looking at the group below, Bibi Dong's expression turned cold, her eyes brimming with killing intent. Yet outwardly, she maintained a composed smile, congratulating them: "Congratulations on your victory. These three pieces of ten-thousand-year spirit bones belong to Shrek Academy, the final victors."
She waved her scepter, sending three radiant beams of light toward Shrek Academy. They carried the precious spirit bones, which landed before the team.
"So these are ten-thousand-year spirit bones…" Tang San's eyes gleamed with greed. The Spiritual Wisdom Skull, aged over 50,000 years, seemed tailor-made for him.
The others also stared at the spirit bones with fervent eyes, barely able to contain their excitement. These treasures, more valuable than gold and nearly impossible to obtain, were enough to stir any spirit master's deepest desires.
Even Dai Mubai, accustomed to grandeur, found himself breathing heavily.
For Ma Hongjun, Oscar, and Tai Long—who came from humble backgrounds—this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Their exhilaration was palpable.
"Absorbing this spirit bone will surely enhance my power immensely," Tang San thought, his breathing quickening.
The memory of Chen Xuan's devastating kick, which had shattered half the bones in his arm, lingered vividly. He had vowed that day to seek revenge. To him, Chen Xuan was a target of hatred—someone who had humiliated his teacher, stolen Xiao Wu, and repeatedly embarrassed him. His desire to kill Chen Xuan had been festering for a long time.
As Shrek's members silently gazed at the spirit bones, each harbored their own ambitions.
Though seething with anger internally, Bibi Dong feigned magnanimity and smiled. "The spirit bones are yours to distribute as you see fit. We will not interfere."
"Teacher."
"Master!"
Tang San, Ma Hongjun, Dai Mubai, and the others all turned to Yu Xiaogang. Such a monumental decision naturally fell to him.
Yu Xiaogang's lips curled into a faint smirk. He glanced at Chen Xuan with a look of disdain before handing all three spirit bones to Tang San.
Before anyone could react, he turned to the crowd and declared, "The distribution of the spirit bones can wait. I have an important announcement."
His words caught everyone off guard, from Tang San and Dai Mubai to Ning Fengzhi and the Spirit Hall members. All looked on in confusion, wondering what Yu Xiaogang was planning.
Standing tall and proud, Yu Xiaogang faced Chen Xuan and proclaimed loudly, "Taking advantage of this occasion, I hereby announce: due to Chen Xuan's disruptive behavior, blatant disrespect for teachers, and repeated provocations, Shrek Academy has decided, after unanimous agreement among its faculty, to expel him. From this moment on, Chen Xuan is no longer a student of Shrek Academy."
Chapter 162: Within Spirit Hall
"Chen Xuan, from today onward, you are expelled from Shrek Academy. Do you have any objections?"
"I agree."
"I second that."
Before Yu Xiaogang could finish his sentence, Flender, Liu Erlong, Tai Long, Oscar, and the others all spoke in unison. Their interruption clearly reflected their long-standing resentment and dissatisfaction with Chen Xuan.
"What?"
"Expelling Chen Xuan?"
The rest of Shrek Academy's members widened their eyes in shock. Amidst their triumph, Yu Xiaogang suddenly announced, in front of so many people, the expulsion of Chen Xuan.
Some were pleased, while others were confused, unable to understand why Yu Xiaogang had made this decision. Jiangzhu hesitated, wanting to speak but ultimately holding back. With both the dean and vice-dean, as well as the main team members, agreeing to the decision, what could a substitute member like her say?
Zhu Zhuqing, however, remained calm and unsurprised, as if she had anticipated this outcome. Coming from a royal family, she had seen countless schemes and intrigues. To her, these petty machinations were child's play.
She wasn't worried about Chen Xuan. There was no need to be. She knew his capabilities well; he didn't rely on anyone, and whether or not he remained with Shrek Academy wouldn't affect his development. If anything, expelling Chen Xuan was Shrek's loss.
"What on earth is Shrek doing?"
Within the competition area, many spectators watched this scene unfold. Some were puzzled, but most found it absurd. To them, Shrek Academy using such a grand stage as the Pope's Hall to announce the expulsion of a student was nothing short of foolish. It was as if they believed this would leave a significant impact on everyone present—utter nonsense.
In Spirit Hall, Bibi Dong smiled. She had initially worried that Chen Xuan might be too loyal to Shrek to join Spirit Hall, but Yu Xiaogang's actions had inadvertently eased her concerns.
The Golden Generation—Xie Yue, Yan, and Hu Liena—were utterly speechless. They had never encountered such shameless behavior before. To them, Yu Xiaogang seemed to lack any sense of propriety, acting as though the Pope's Hall was his personal stage.
In truth, none of them cared about Shrek expelling someone. Real strong individuals didn't depend on any single force. But Yu Xiaogang seemed oblivious to this as he basked in the attention.
He wanted this effect. He intended to publicly humiliate Chen Xuan.
Tai Long, grinning smugly, mocked:
"Chen Xuan, all your skills came from Shrek's teachings. Without the guidance of the master and the deans, you're nothing!"
"You're ungrateful, arrogant, and insubordinate, often clashing with your teachers and injuring classmates. You brought this upon yourself," he sneered.
Yu Xiaogang took over, his tone cold and disdainful:
"Chen Xuan, oh Chen Xuan, if only you had known better. Your behavior left us no choice. Shrek Academy cannot tolerate a pest like you!"
Yu Xiaogang felt utterly satisfied, as if a great burden had been lifted. Finally ridding himself of this thorn in his side filled him with glee.
"Are you done?" Chen Xuan's face remained expressionless.
Yu Xiaogang's triumphant smile froze, his brows furrowing.
"What do you mean by that?"
Flender and Liu Erlong also frowned. They had expected Chen Xuan to react with anger or beg for forgiveness, yet his calm demeanor was baffling.
Tai Long, face flushed with rage, couldn't stand Chen Xuan's indifferent expression. His anger flared as he shouted:
"Chen Xuan, stop pretending to be so aloof! Do you think you've become some enlightened sage free of desires?"
"I know you're hurting inside, just putting on a strong front. Stop acting like nothing's wrong. Who are you trying to fool?"
"Idiot." Chen Xuan's cold voice dripped with disdain. He felt nothing but disgust for these people.
"Who are you calling an idiot?" Tai Long roared, clenching his fists, seemingly ready to fight.
"Chen Xuan, you shouldn't insult people like this. Please apologize to Tai Long," Qin Ming pleaded earnestly.
Yu Xiaogang sighed dramatically and said, feigning regret:
"Chen Xuan, I know you're angry about being expelled, but you must take responsibility for your actions. Heaven sees all."
"Enough of your nauseating pretense," Chen Xuan sneered. "Do you actually believe you're some wise master? Stop trying to guess others' thoughts with your underdeveloped brain. It just makes you look even more arrogant and clownish."
"Ridiculous! You're just pretending not to care. Leaving Shrek must be devastating for you!" Yu Xiaogang retorted angrily.
Tang San, silent until now, finally spoke up, his voice filled with anger:
"Chen Xuan, you can insult others, but you cannot insult my teacher! Apologize immediately!"
Chen Xuan laughed coldly.
"Apologize? For what? For stating the truth? Or for exposing the glaring reality that makes you so furious?"
"You're just a bunch of hypocrites," Chen Xuan continued. "Some rely on their students' accomplishments to boast about their so-called theories being the best on the continent. Laughable. You can't even teach properly, yet you call yourselves masters and sages. Shameless."
"You—!" Yu Xiaogang's face turned beet red, his greatest pain—being stuck at Spirit Rank 29—thrust into the spotlight.
Flender, looking grim, shouted:
"Enough, Chen Xuan! Yu Xiaogang may not excel in spirit power, but he has trained Tang San and others well. There are no useless spirits, only useless spirit masters!"
Chen Xuan's eyes gleamed as he smirked.
"Oh, I see now. So, it's not 'no useless spirits, only useless spirit masters.' It's 'no useless spirits, only a useless Yu Xiaogang.' Got it."
Laughter erupted in the crowd. Some openly chuckled, amused by Chen Xuan's retort.
"You!" Flender's face turned ashen with anger.
The black-robed bishop slammed his sword into the ground, his voice stern:
"No fighting in the Pope's Hall. Violators will be executed!"
Bibi Dong watched silently, a faint smile on her lips.
"Chen Xuan," she finally said, her voice calm but firm, "as of today, you belong to Spirit Hall. You will remain in Spirit City and join the Golden Generation. Additionally, a spirit bone has been prepared for you."
Her words were like a thunderclap. The entire crowd stared in shock, their disbelief palpable.
Shrek's members were dumbfounded, their emotions a storm of betrayal and confusion as all eyes turned to Chen Xuan.
Chen Xuan, however, remained calm, though he couldn't help but think:
This woman is up to something.
And he was right. Bibi Dong's smile deepened, her plans falling into place.
Chapter 163: Isolation
Chen Xuan was already a member of the Spirit Hall?
As this revelation spread, it sent ripples of shock through the crowd, leaving many stunned by the unexpected turn of events.
For the Shrek Seven Devils, the news hit like a tidal wave crashing against their hearts, leaving them utterly shaken.
Almost immediately, everyone's expressions darkened to an extreme degree.
To Shrek, the Spirit Hall was akin to their mortal enemy. And now, they were being told that one of their own had turned out to be a lackey for the enemy.
"You traitor!"
Tang San's voice was hoarse with rage, his killing intent palpable. To him, the Spirit Hall was his greatest nemesis, the source of his deepest hatred. After all they'd done to insult his teacher, now they had even managed to infiltrate Shrek itself?
"Traitor, go to hell!" Tang San's eyes were ice-cold as he raised his hand, firing a burst from his Zhuge Divine Crossbow.
With a sharp click, seven arrows shot forth, their tips gleaming with a sinister purple glow, clearly coated with poison.
"Well done, Bibi Dong!" Chen Xuan did not respond to the others but instead coldly fixed his gaze on that woman.
With a swift motion, Chen Xuan raised his hand behind him. A crackling sound echoed as arcs of lightning surged forth from his palm, shattering the seven arrows into fine dust in an instant.
"Tang San, are you trying to rebel?"
A black-clad bishop intervened, unleashing a torrent of soul power. An oppressive force descended from above, palpable and crushing.
Boom!
The soul pressure slammed down, cracking the ground beneath it. Tang San coughed up blood and dropped to his knees.
"Your Grace, please have mercy!" Flender, Liu Erlong, and the others hurriedly pleaded, fearing for Tang San's safety.
"What are you trying to do, Bibi Dong?!" Yu Xiaogang bellowed, his face contorted with rage. Tang San was his most beloved disciple, and if anything happened to him, he would risk his life to seek justice.
Bibi Dong casually waved her hand, signaling the black-clad bishop to step back and giving Yu Xiaogang a semblance of face.
"Hmph, there won't be a next time. Death awaits if it happens again!" the black-clad bishop snorted coldly, reluctantly withdrawing his oppressive aura.
"Little San, are you alright?"
Flender and Liu Erlong quickly helped Tang San up, wiping the blood from the corner of his mouth with worry etched across their faces.
Xiao Wu, however, didn't pay attention to Tang San. Instead, she walked up to Chen Xuan, her eyes filled with pain. Hesitantly, she asked, "Is… what they said true?"
Her voice trembled slightly, her gaze pleading, hoping that it wasn't the truth.
"I have my reasons." Chen Xuan sighed softly. Though reluctant, he could only give this response.
He knew exactly what this meant to Xiao Wu, but the truth was inescapable, and he could not bring himself to lie.
Regret soon overtook Chen Xuan. He felt bitter and pained, realizing at that moment that he had fallen into Bibi Dong's calculations from the very beginning.
At this time, Xiao Wu's expression showed a fleeting moment of despair. Her body trembled, nearly losing her balance.
Zhu Zhuqing stepped forward to support her close friend. Casting a glance at Chen Xuan, her eyes were filled with disappointment and confusion, but she ultimately chose not to say anything.
Chen Xuan's heart was in turmoil, his emotions in chaos. Only now did he realize that revealing his affiliation with the Spirit Hall at such a sensitive time would inevitably lead to wild speculation. His previous refusal to compete would now be seen in a new and damning light.
Bibi Dong was clearly unafraid of him feigning allegiance to the Spirit Hall. By orchestrating this situation, she ensured a complete fallout between Chen Xuan and Shrek. Now, even if he wanted to return to Shrek, it was impossible.
"Chen Xuan, you… sigh…" Jing Ling and Huang Yuan sighed one after another, at a loss for words.
At this moment, Flender, Liu Erlong, Yu Xiaogang, Tang San, Tai Long, Oscar, and Dai Mubai all wore grim expressions. Their eyes were filled with killing intent, as if they wished to eliminate this traitor on the spot.
Xiao Wu, Ning Rongrong, Zhu Zhuqing, and Jiang Zhu also distanced themselves from him, harboring a sense of rejection.
There was no doubt—Bibi Dong's plan had succeeded. In her grand design, after this incident, Chen Xuan would have no choice but to rely on the Spirit Hall.
Hu Liena, ever the troublemaker, cast a seductive smile at Chen Xuan. Waving her hand, she teased, "Little Brother Chen, come here. From now on, we're family."
She smiled coquettishly, her gaze alluring. Licking her crimson lips, she brazenly attempted to seduce Chen Xuan.
Bibi Dong smiled in satisfaction, observing the scene with a look of control and triumph. Everything unfolded as planned, leaving her reveling in the sense of omnipotence.
On the tournament stage.
"Little San, this Wisdom Skull Bone is perfect for cultivating spiritual power. It suits you well." Yu Xiaogang retrieved the championship prize and began distributing the three spirit bones.
Looking at the spirit bones, Dai Mubai felt a twinge of desire but ultimately refrained. The attributes weren't suitable for him, so he chose to let his companions have the opportunity.
Oscar also declined, stating that as a food-type auxiliary spirit master, attack-type spirit bones were of little use to him.
Xiao Wu, being a hundred-thousand-year Soft Bone Rabbit in human form, naturally could not absorb spirit bones either, so she also gave up the opportunity.
Finally, under the master's allocation, the Wisdom Skull Bone, which was over fifty thousand years old, went to Tang San. The other two spirit bones, each over thirty thousand years old, were awarded to Zhu Zhuqing and Ma Hongjun.
"Master, Third Brother, I'll repay this tenfold in the future!" Ma Hongjun, moved to tears upon receiving the spirit bone, swore passionately, declaring his gratitude in exaggerated terms.
"Thank you, Master." Zhu Zhuqing's voice was cold and her demeanor aloof. Even in expressing gratitude, her tone lacked warmth.
With that, the three spirit bones were distributed among the trio. The Shrek team had claimed victory in the tournament, and this year's Spirit Master Competition concluded successfully.
And thus, it ends.
Chapter 164: I Can Tell You're Not Human at a Glance
"Is everything divided up?" A cold voice rang out.
Bibi Dong's expression turned cruel as she pointed at Xiao Wu and commanded, "Yue Guan, Gui Mei, capture that rabbit for me!"
In an instant, the expressions of everyone from Shrek darkened. What did she mean by this?
Grandmaster furiously questioned, "Bibi Dong, what do you intend to do?!"
Chrysanthemum Douluo and Ghost Douluo, undeterred by his words, unleashed their soul power at the Angel Statue. Their figures flickered, becoming two streams of light that shot down toward Shrek's direction.
Sword Douluo and Bone Douluo intervened just in time, positioning themselves in front of the Shrek group to block Chrysanthemum and Ghost Douluo.
"Your Majesty the Pope, could there be some misunderstanding here? It would be wise to clarify before taking action," Ning Fengzhi said, descending gracefully in his white robes to stand up for Shrek.
As the head of one of the Three Upper Sects, Ning Fengzhi's intervention disrupted the Spirit Hall's plan, causing Bibi Dong's expression to darken. She glared venomously at Ning Fengzhi, her icy gaze laced with warning.
"Ning Sect Master, as the leader of a sect, I advise you to tread carefully. If you continue to meddle, you will make the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect an enemy of the Spirit Hall," she warned coldly.
Ning Fengzhi's face turned pale, and he swallowed back the words he had intended to say. This warning from the Pope was no trivial matter.
Although the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect was one of the Three Upper Sects with a solid foundation and thousands of disciples, it was no match for the Spirit Hall, the domineering overlord. It was not worth destroying his sect for one girl.
After all, this sect did not belong to him alone.
Sword Douluo wanted to argue, but Ning Fengzhi stopped him with a sigh, deciding to step back from the matter.
With no resistance from Sword Douluo or Bone Douluo, Chrysanthemum Douluo and Ghost Douluo joined forces, making them unstoppable this time.
"Wait!"
Suddenly, Yu Xiaogang's sharp voice echoed as he stepped forward, pulling out a token from his robes and displaying it to the Spirit Hall members.
"I am also an elder of the Spirit Hall! I have the right to know the truth! Bibi Dong, you may capture someone, but explain yourself first. Why are you targeting my student?"
The sight of Yu Xiaogang revealing his Elder Token didn't surprise the Shrek group. Even after learning that Grandmaster was an elder of the Spirit Hall, no one accused him of betrayal.
Tai Long, Oscar, and the others found it reasonable and even admired Grandmaster for achieving such a position. As for Chen Xuan, no comparison could be made between the two.
"Your Majesty, I believe I have the right to know the truth!" Yu Xiaogang demanded.
Bibi Dong frowned, her dissatisfaction evident. The Elder Token she had once given him was now being used to challenge her, leaving her heart bitter.
With a cold tone, she replied, "Xiaogang, there is no need to question me. Why don't you ask your student if she is a soul beast transformed into human form?"
"What did you say?!"
Her words sent shockwaves through the Shrek group. Yu Xiaogang, Liu Erlong, and Flender were stunned, their faces filled with disbelief. Only Tang San remained unsurprised.
"Could it be... is there truly an unseen hand at work?" Chen Xuan murmured, gazing at the dim sky.
The Yearning Heartbroken Red flower had stayed with Xiao Wu, unlike in the original timeline. Yet her soul beast identity was still exposed.
Chen Xuan doubted himself, torn between the illusory timeline and the real world. The two were fundamentally different.
"Xiao Wu, is this true?" Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing were pale, their expressions incredulous as they looked at Xiao Wu, unwilling to believe it.
Even Dai Mubai couldn't accept it. How could a longtime companion turn out to be a soul beast?
Unable to hold back, he questioned her, "Xiao Wu, what's going on?"
Tang San patted Dai Mubai's shoulder and sighed. "Boss Dai, don't ask. Xiao Wu... she's not human."
Having her identity exposed, Xiao Wu remained calm, showing no panic. Instead, her delicate face turned icy, exuding a chilling aura like eternal frost. She glared at Bibi Dong with eyes filled with killing intent.
Sensing her murderous gaze, the Pope sneered disdainfully. "I could tell you weren't human at a glance. If I'm not mistaken, you're one of the survivors from back then, aren't you?"
Xiao Wu's cold stare remained fixed on her, her silence brimming with fury.
Bibi Dong frowned, displeased. "Yue Guan, Gui Mei, why are you still standing there? Capture this rabbit!"
"If you want to take her, you'll have to step over my dead body!" Tang San stepped forward, his love for Xiao Wu unwavering, even knowing she was with child.
Dai Mubai joined him, standing protectively in front of Xiao Wu. "Shrek is always a team. As the eldest brother, how could I retreat at a time like this?"
Following them, Zhu Zhuqing, Ning Rongrong, Jiang Zhu, Ma Hongjun, Oscar, and Tai Long all stepped up, resolutely shielding Xiao Wu.
"We elders aren't dead yet! You little ones, get back!" Flender roared.
At that moment, Liu Erlong and Qin Ming pushed Yu Xiaogang forward to face Bibi Dong.
Seeing everyone standing before her, Xiao Wu's eyes brimmed with tears of gratitude.
Chen Xuan, however, stayed back. Instead of joining Shrek against the Spirit Hall, he closed his eyes, sensing the Flying Thunder God mark. It had not been removed.
He decided to go along with the situation, staying on the Spirit Hall's side to strike from the shadows. Only from the darkness could he disrupt their plans, deal lethal blows, and eliminate certain threats.
Those who showed killing intent toward him would not be spared. Otherwise, they would become future dangers, especially individuals like Tang San and Yu Xiaogang.
"Your Majesty?" Chrysanthemum Douluo cautiously reminded Bibi Dong, mindful that someone in Shrek still held an Elder Token.
Bibi Dong's face darkened, her anger at Yu Xiaogang reaching its peak. After saving his life and letting him return to Shrek, this was how he repaid her.
Her gaze turned even colder. Finally, she gave Yu Xiaogang one last look and shouted fiercely:
"All of you, listen to my order! Capture the rabbit, and anyone who stands in the way—kill them without mercy!"
Chapter 165: Tang Hao Appears
Outside the Supreme Pontiff's Hall, over ten streaks of red light soared through the sky, rapidly approaching the arena. These were weapon martial soul masters flying on their swords.
Dugu Bo's expression grew heavy as he watched soul masters flood in, sealing off the area. It was clear this would be a tough battle.
Xiao Wu, the 100,000-year Soft Bone Rabbit in human form, had her soul beast identity exposed, drawing mortal peril. Yet, Shrek's companions chose to stand by her, sharing her fate.
"It seems the medicinal herb Similar Heartbreak Red concealed her aura. If not for that, I would never have allowed her to come to this city," Dugu Bo sighed.
He was also puzzled—Tang San had known of Xiao Wu's soul beast identity for a long time. Why would he still bring her to Spirit City?
Unfortunately, with enemies pressing in, now was not the time to ask.
"As a guest elder of Shrek Academy, how could I stand idly by?" Dugu Bo walked toward the Spirit Hall's forces, his hands clasped behind his back.
Boom!
A muffled thunderous sound erupted from his body as surging soul power shot skyward. A green, ghostly light materialized, manifesting a massive azure serpent coiling above his head—his Jade Phosphor Serpent martial soul fully activated.
"Old monster!" Tang San's eyes moistened as his heart surged with emotion. He hadn't expected that in this dire moment, when even Ning Fengzhi had retreated, the "old poison" would step forward.
Dai Mubai, Oscar, and Ma Hongjun were equally moved. It was in times of adversity that true loyalty shone through.
"Shrek is always one team—we live and die together!" Dai Mubai shouted, resolutely facing Spirit Hall.
"Well said. With us old-timers here, the tragedies of the past will not repeat themselves." Yu Xiaogang grasped Liu Erlong's hand. Both wore solemn, unyielding expressions.
"How touching," Bibi Dong sneered coldly at the pair. She hadn't expected Yu Xiaogang to go against her for these people.
"Capture the girl. Anyone who resists—kill without mercy!"
Bibi Dong's face was icy as her terrifying soul power erupted. Nine soul rings materialized around her, the final one as red as blood, emanating the aura of a 100,000-year soul ring.
A massive soul pressure descended, creating a gravity-like field that instantly immobilized Dugu Bo, Yu Xiaogang, and Liu Erlong.
Dugu Bo's face turned pale as he bent under the pressure, unable to stand straight. He was a titled Douluo, yet now he couldn't even resist. It was clear how formidable Bibi Dong's soul power had become.
As Bibi Dong suppressed them, Chrysanthemum Douluo and Ghost Douluo seized the opportunity, activating their martial soul avatars and attacking Dugu Bo.
"Old poison, prepare to die!" Chrysanthemum Douluo's sharp, androgynous voice rang out as a massive chrysanthemum bloomed behind him. Each petal glistened coldly, as sharp as blades.
Above, five weapon martial soul masters dived from the skies, streaking like meteors toward the Shrek group.
"Xiaogang, can you still use your martial soul?" Flender and Liu Erlong, their foreheads beading with sweat, urgently asked.
If they didn't use their martial soul fusion skill, it would be disastrous.
"Of course I can!" Yu Xiaogang knew the gravity of the situation and quickly summoned his martial soul. The trio activated the Golden Iron Triangle fusion technique.
Standing in a triangular formation, they released their martial souls. Golden soul power surged as three beams of light shot into the sky, merging into a massive golden dragon that coiled in the air.
With a loud explosion, the five flying martial soul masters were sent tumbling like kites with broken strings, falling beyond the arena.
Nearby, Sword Douluo finally acted, unsheathing his sword and slashing toward Ghost Douluo, alleviating some of Dugu Bo's pressure.
Ning Fengzhi, however, did not realize that this very action would become the key point in the tragedy of his sect's extermination.
Bibi Dong's eyes were as cold as ice as she swung her scepter. A purple light expanded in the air, crashing down onto the Golden Iron Triangle below.
The golden dragon disintegrated, exploding into a rain of light. Flender and Liu Erlong groaned as they were flung back, vomiting blood and suffering severe injuries.
Yu Xiaogang, along with his wheelchair, was also thrown through the air before crashing heavily to the ground. Unconscious, he was only revived after Oscar fed him several recovery sausages.
Despite her command to kill without mercy, Bibi Dong had clearly held back. Otherwise, how could a mere soul master's body survive an attack from a super Douluo?
With the Golden Iron Triangle neutralized, Ghost Douluo activated a ten-thousand-year soul skill, transforming into a black mist and targeting Xiao Wu.
Tang San summoned the Clear Sky Hammer, charging forward with the 500-pound silver hammer in hand.
A mere soul elder opposing a super Douluo was like an egg striking a stone—utterly futile.
"A chrysanthemum and a ghost think they can harm my son? Get lost!"
A low, commanding voice suddenly rang out from the skies. Though quiet, it carried an overwhelming authority, striking everyone's hearts like a bomb.
Boom!
The voice, imbued with immense soul power, blasted Chrysanthemum Douluo and Ghost Douluo backward, preventing them from advancing further.
The two Douluo's faces turned pale, their flesh trembling as the voice disrupted their blood flow.
Everyone present was stunned. Two titled Douluo, pillars of Spirit Hall, had been repelled by a mere voice. The strength of the newcomer was unimaginable.
Hearing the familiar voice, Tang San's eyes welled with tears. His body trembled as he raised his head, gazing skyward with hope and excitement.
Flender and Yu Xiaogang also trembled, simultaneously breathing a sigh of relief. With the Clear Sky Douluo here, Tang San was safe.
"This is my moment," Chen Xuan muttered with a smile, finally seeing the opportunity he'd been waiting for.
Reaching into his storage soul guide, he retrieved a 200-pound azure-gold spear and gripped it tightly.
No one noticed him—not even Hu Liena beside him. Everyone's attention was fixed on the sky.
If Yu Xiaogang had glanced over, he would have recognized the azure-gold spear as the one used in an assassination attempt long ago.
Beneath the clouds, a black figure emerged, walking on air. His deep eyes, like abyssal voids, swept over the Spirit Hall below.
His aura was so oppressive that everyone in Spirit Hall felt their hearts tighten. Those below the titled Douluo level could barely breathe under the pressure.
The man was a scruffy middle-aged figure, tall and broad-shouldered. Dressed in ragged black robes, his hair was a messy bird's nest. He resembled a beggar, yet no one dared underestimate him.
Seeing the familiar figure, Tang San, who had always been strong, couldn't hold back his tears. His lips trembled as he choked out:
"Dad… Dad…"
Unlike Tang San's joy, Bibi Dong's reaction was pure fury. Her eyes burned with hatred as she glared at Tang Hao.
"Tang Hao, how dare you show yourself!" she shouted, her voice seething with rage.
From the clouds, Tang Hao stepped into view, holding a silver hammer in his hand. Its dark glow emanated an oppressive soul power that made the air itself hum.
"Bibi Dong, do you think you can keep me here now?" His voice was calm yet filled with unshakable confidence.
Standing tall in the sky, Tang Hao faced three super Douluo without the slightest hint of fear.
Nine soul rings appeared beneath him, with the final one glowing blood-red, exuding a terrifying aura. This was a 100,000-year soul ring, its energy surpassing even Bibi Dong's.
"This is the true power of the Clear Sky Hammer," Tang Hao declared, pouring all his soul power into his seventh soul skill.
The silver hammer in his hand expanded rapidly, its size growing from two meters to over a hundred meters in an instant. The massive hammer cast a shadow over the Supreme Pontiff's Hall and all of Spirit City.
"Dad, was that meant for me?" Tang San's heart trembled as he realized the words Tang Hao had spoken earlier were directed at him.
"Tang Hao, how dare you!" Bibi Dong screamed, her eyes blazing with fury.
She had guessed Tang Hao's intention—not to attack them, but to destroy the Supreme Pontiff's Hall, the very symbol of Spirit City.
Forced into action, Bibi Dong soared into the sky, with Chrysanthemum Douluo and Ghost Douluo following suit. The three unleashed their defensive soul skills, facing the mountainous hammer descending from the heavens.
"While they fight, the real victor awaits in the shadows," Chen Xuan whispered to himself, gripping his azure-gold spear as he quietly advanced. This was the moment he had been waiting for.
Chapter 166: Seizing the Twenty-Four Bridge Bright Moonlit Night
"Tang Hao, how dare you!"
Bibi Dong roared, her eyes wide with fury. She, along with Chrysanthemum and Ghost Douluo, ascended into the sky to confront Tang Hao's true spirit avatar.
Tang Hao was too clever—he had no intention of attacking anyone. His purpose was clear from the start: to destroy the Pope's Palace, the symbol of Spirit Hall.
The sky darkened, as if shrouded by an immense shadow. A Haotian Hammer over a hundred meters long descended from above like a massive mountain, stirring fierce winds and even twisting the very air.
Inside the Pope's Palace, the remaining five elders could no longer sit still. They unleashed their spirit skills in unison, five golden streaks of light streaking into the sky to resist the colossal hammer descending from the heavens.
"Shadow Clone Technique!" At the same time, Chen Xuan completed a hand seal. With a loud bang, a cloud of white mist rose, and an identical replica of him appeared.
Yu Xiaogang struggled to rise from the ground, suddenly feeling a chill on his back. When he turned sharply, he saw Chen Xuan, eyes sharp and determined, walking toward him with a spear in hand.
"It's you!" Yu Xiaogang exclaimed, his pupils contracting. Even though the spear in Chen Xuan's hand had been upgraded, he recognized it immediately—it was the very weapon that had attempted to assassinate him that day.
Flender, Liu Erlong, Tang San, Dugu Bo, Ning Fengzhi, and the others turned their gazes toward him, only to see Chen Xuan exuding killing intent as he approached with his spear.
"Chen Xuan, what are you doing?!" Flender and Liu Erlong roared. They had heard Yu Xiaogang's account and, seeing the shadow clone, they instantly realized the truth.
At this point, Chen Xuan no longer bothered to feign innocence. "I didn't expect you to have such a tenacious life. I should've taken your head back then."
In that moment, everyone was dumbfounded. The person who had attempted to assassinate the Grandmaster was indeed Chen Xuan.
"You brat, you're courting death!" Hearing Chen Xuan admit it, Liu Erlong was furious. Despite her injuries, she began gathering her spirit power to summon her martial soul avatar.
However, just as she was about to summon the fire dragon, a tremendous shockwave erupted from above, shaking the entire Pope's Palace.
In the sky, Tang Hao's mountain-like hammer clashed with the spirit skills of Bibi Dong and the seven elders, creating a massive collision.
Boom!
At that moment, the world seemed to lose its color. Space twisted, and terrifying energy rippled outward, tearing through the sky and releasing a blinding light that engulfed the entire Pope's Palace.
The heavens truly dimmed. Countless people felt as if they had gone blind, seeing nothing but a vast white expanse. Everything was obscured.
The deafening explosion was piercingly sharp, leaving many in prolonged deafness. Almost everyone froze in place, unable to see or hear.
Xiao Wu couldn't see anything, but soon a gentle spirit power surrounded her, restoring her senses.
At that instant, a familiar voice rang in her ears. Before she realized it, Chen Xuan was already by her side.
"Xiao Wu, hold on to me. I'll get you out of Spirit City," Chen Xuan said urgently. Time was running out, and he couldn't afford to waste a second.
However, Xiao Wu took a few steps back, resisting him, unwilling to leave with him.
"I'm not going! I don't want you to help me! You liar, you scoundrel! You joined Spirit Hall and still said you'd protect me forever. Liar!"
"Trust me. I'll explain everything later, but we must leave Spirit City now, or it'll be too late."
Time was of the essence. Chen Xuan had no choice. He reached out, pulled Xiao Wu into his arms, and carried her in a princess hold. Despite her struggles and kicks, his shadow clone remained unmoved. Using the Flying Thunder God Technique, they vanished instantly, leaving only a flash of yellow light behind.
Chen Xuan's true body stayed behind, choosing to let the shadow clone take Xiao Wu away. This was a rare opportunity, and he intended to eliminate a few people while he could.
"Purple Demon Eyes!" Tang San felt a chill on his back and activated his eye technique. With a layer of purple light covering his eyes, his vision gradually cleared, piercing through the blinding white light.
"Xiao Wu?"
Tang San was alarmed. Xiao Wu had vanished, and within his two-hundred-meter soul perception radius, he couldn't detect her presence.
He quickly noticed Chen Xuan on the other side, holding a spear and staring at him intently, seemingly unaffected by the explosion.
"It's you!"
Tang San's sharp mind quickly deduced the truth. They were the only two unaffected individuals, meaning Chen Xuan must have taken Xiao Wu.
"You despicable villain! What have you done to Xiao Wu? Bring her back!"
Chen Xuan ignored him. Forming a hand seal, the spear in his hand crackled with lightning, its tip becoming even sharper. Tang San failed to notice that under his feet lay a small stone inscribed with black symbols, indistinguishable among the debris.
Meanwhile, the terrifying clash above concluded. Bibi Dong, Chrysanthemum Douluo, and Ghost Douluo were sent flying by Tang Hao's hammer, crashing into the stage and leaving a massive crater in their wake.
Despite the seven titled Douluo's efforts to protect the Pope's Palace, it was still damaged. The Angel Statue was no longer intact, its surface riddled with cracks, as if ready to collapse.
High above, the massive hammer disappeared. Without hesitation, Tang Hao dove down to rescue Tang San and Xiao Wu.
"Stop, you brat!" Tang Hao roared, losing his composure.
He saw Chen Xuan appear behind Tang San in a blink, using a spatial movement technique. Worse, Tang San hadn't even reacted.
"Stop!"
Tang Hao's roar was futile. Chen Xuan sneered, "Stop? As if I'd listen to you."
Raising his spear, Chen Xuan aimed it at Tang San's head and thrust it forward.
"No!"
"Stop!"
"Tang San!"
Tang Hao, Dugu Bo, Yu Xiaogang, and all of Shrek Academy cried out. The attack happened too suddenly—they had no time to intervene.
No one expected Chen Xuan to dare assassinate Tang San under the watchful eyes of so many titled Douluo.
Even though he had been expelled, Chen Xuan was once a member of Shrek Academy. Oscar, Tai Long, and the others were filled with hatred and disgust. To them, he was a traitor, biting the hand that fed him.
"Well done. As expected of someone from Spirit Hall!" Bibi Dong, blood at the corner of her lips, smiled bitterly.
Boom!
The arena trembled with a muffled thud, distorting the surrounding air. The power of the strike was unimaginable.
"What's going on?"
Chen Xuan's pupils contracted in disbelief. His spear, glowing with crackling lightning, stopped three centimeters from Tang San's forehead, unable to move closer.
He poured more chakra into the attack. Lightning surged, intensifying the spear's destructive energy, yet it was useless. An invisible barrier blocked his strike.
"Damn it! I knew it wouldn't be this easy!" Chen Xuan cursed. What seemed like a golden opportunity was nothing but an illusion. Tang San was protected by an unseen force, beyond even a titled Douluo's reach.
All of this happened in an instant. From the assassination attempt to its failure, less than a second had passed.
By now, Tang Hao, Dugu Bo, Tai Long, Oscar, and the others had rushed over.
Chen Xuan knew it was time to retreat. If he stayed, Tang Hao would show no mercy.
"These are mine now."
Chen Xuan sneered, snatching the Twenty-Four Bridge Bright Moonlit Night from Tang San's waist. His Mangekyo Sharingan regressed to its three-tomoe form as he deactivated his time-stopping eye technique.
Boom!
The arena quaked, and the Pope's Palace trembled. Tang Hao landed heavily, creating a deep crater. Dust and rubble flew everywhere.
But it was all in vain. Aside from Tang San and a kunai, there was no trace of Chen Xuan. He had vanished without a trace.
Chapter 167: The Return Strike
Outside the Pope's Palace
Ten miles from the competition arena, in a sparsely populated alley, Chen Xuan landed softly, immediately concealing his aura, and dashed into a nearby inn.
It was nearly dinnertime, and the restaurant was bustling with noise and chaos, providing the perfect cover to mask his presence.
Chen Xuan rented a guest room, locked the doors and windows, then took out the Twenty-Four Moonlit Bridges storage device he had seized from Tang San.
Inside the storage space, there were numerous elixirs refined from immortal herbs. These pills were of various kinds and had instant effects—perfect for replenishing his spirit power.
Without much care, Chen Xuan grabbed a few pills and swallowed them in one gulp, beginning to restore himself to peak condition.
Not long ago, he had used his shadow clone technique, which consumed half his spirit power. Combined with his repeated use of space-time abilities, his remaining spirit power was less than fifty percent.
It wouldn't take long—just one or two minutes of preliminary absorption would suffice for him to regain mobility.
Meanwhile, at the Pope's Palace
The competition area lay in ruins. Many buildings had been devastated by the aftershocks of Titled Douluo-level clashes. The arena was full of pits and cracks, a mess beyond repair.
Tang San awoke in confusion, finally breaking free from the Time Freeze. His face was blank—he had completely lost focus earlier and had no idea what had happened.
This realization sent chills down his spine. To lose awareness in such a perilous situation… If someone had wanted to assassinate him, he would already be a corpse.
Tang Hao, seeing that his son was unharmed, let out a long sigh of relief. He knew it was time to leave. If they lingered any longer, even he might not escape unscathed once the others reacted.
"Master, Flender, you have taught my son for many years. I, Tang Hao, owe you a great debt!" With these words, Tang Hao swept Tang San into his arms and vanished without a trace.
From the distant sky came Tang Hao's resounding voice.
"Your Grace, shall we pursue them?" Chrysanthemum Douluo and Ghost Douluo asked. Despite being Titled Douluo, they could not match Tang Hao's speed.
Bibi Dong scanned the area below. The Shrek group was still on the platform, but the rabbit and Chen Xuan were missing.
"Chase them! Seal off Spirit City—that rabbit can't have gone far!" she commanded sharply, issuing a kill order and splitting her forces to hunt Tang Hao and Xiao Wu.
Judging by the earlier situation, the rabbit must have slipped away during the chaos. Given the vast expanse of Spirit City, she refused to believe a mere Spirit Elder could escape in just a few minutes.
Ghost Douluo's raspy voice analyzed the situation:
"The rabbit is likely hiding somewhere in the city, waiting for Tang Hao to rendezvous. By putting pressure on Tang Hao, even if we can't catch him, we can stop him from rescuing the rabbit."
Chrysanthemum and Ghost Douluo didn't hesitate. Activating their spirit powers, they leapt into the air and pursued Tang Hao's trail.
"Send word to Lord Roald to seal the city gates. No suspicious individuals are to leave. Also, mobilize part of the Spirit Saint enforcers to search Spirit City!" Bibi Dong swiftly ordered.
Still, she found it odd—where had Chen Xuan gone? Tang Hao had fled; surely he should have returned by now.
"Understood, Your Grace!" The black-robed bishop received the order and left to make arrangements.
On the Platform
"Dean, Master, what should we do now?" Dai Mubai, Ma Hongjun, Oscar, and the others asked worriedly. They feared Xiao Wu would be captured.
Flender rubbed his temples, his face full of worry. Xiao Wu had left early, but her whereabouts were unknown. He also wasn't sure if Tang Hao could find her in time.
"Let's hope Xiao Wu is safe!"
If he had known today's events would unfold, he would have forfeited the championship title to keep Shrek away from Spirit City.
"It must be Chen Xuan! He must have leaked Xiao Wu's secret as a spirit beast; otherwise, how would Spirit Hall know?" Tai Long growled angrily, his expression fierce.
Oscar and Dai Mubai shared the same hatred for Chen Xuan. To betray Shrek and attempt to kill Tang San—he was nothing but a lapdog for Spirit Hall.
The others joined in condemning Chen Xuan, venting their past grievances against him.
The Master straightened his back and declared,
"We should never have let him join Shrek Academy in the first place. That would have avoided today's disaster."
His tone was calm, but whether intentional or not, it seemed to cast blame on certain individuals.
Perhaps even he had forgotten that the current Shrek Academy was once the Blue Tyrant Academy founded by Liu Erlong. Chen Xuan was never originally a Shrek student.
In fact, Shrek's recruitment of backup team members was personally arranged by Yu Xiaogang to conceal the Seven Monsters' true strength.
"From the preliminary rounds, I could already tell Chen Xuan was evil. That's why I repeatedly benched him," Yu Xiaogang added, speaking as though he truly believed his own words, dismissing any claims of personal bias.
Zhu Zhuqing and Jiang Zhu remained silent, but their impression of Yu Xiaogang had hit rock bottom. They now saw the so-called "Master" as nothing more than a hypocrite.
On the high platform, listening to Shrek's condemnation of Chen Xuan, Bibi Dong furrowed her brows but said nothing.
Although Chen Xuan was now a member of Spirit Hall, she cared more for the Master. Yu Xiaogang's remarks only reinforced her belief that Chen Xuan was an untrustworthy individual.
She understood all too well that someone who could betray Shrek could also betray Spirit Hall. Proper precautions were necessary.
What Bibi Dong didn't realize, due to her earlier clash with Tang Hao, was that Chen Xuan himself had attempted to assassinate the Master.
On the Platform
"Hmm? What's this?"
Tai Long's gaze landed on a shiny object on the ground—a silver dagger-like weapon. Picking it up, he exclaimed in surprise:
"Isn't this the kunai Chen Xuan usually uses?"
"Master, take a look! It seems to be something Chen Xuan left behind." Tai Long handed the kunai to Yu Xiaogang.
The rest of Shrek focused their attention on the gleaming weapon.
Yu Xiaogang nodded.
"Indeed, it's that traitor's tool."
Flender explained:
"This is part of Chen Xuan's spirit ability. He engraves spatial techniques on objects, allowing him to teleport."
Tai Long sighed, feeling regretful.
"If only we could use this tool to track him down. Otherwise, it's too easy for him to get away."
Then, with righteous indignation, Tai Long shouted:
"Chen Xuan is truly despicable! The Master and teachers have taught him for so many years, yet this shameless scoundrel repays kindness with betrayal. To assassinate the Master—he's utterly insane!"
Hearing this, Bibi Dong was stunned, her thoughts racing.
"Chen Xuan… the assassin?"
The revelation left her in shock. Before she could react further, she suddenly sensed Chen Xuan's aura nearby—only 3,000 meters away.
"What?! He's back?"
Her heart skipped a beat, and realization dawned like a lightning bolt. Her face turned pale as she shouted urgently:
"Xiao Gang, move! Leave this place immediately!"
Her uncharacteristic panic stunned everyone present.
Flender and Liu Erlong snapped to attention, their pupils contracting as if they had seen a ghost.
"Tai Long, throw that dagger away now!" they roared, their voices trembling with fear.
But it was too late.
The moment the kunai left Tai Long's hand, golden light burst forth above Yu Xiaogang. Chen Xuan appeared suddenly, his speed beyond comprehension.
Fully restored, he held a green-gold spear crackling with terrifying electric energy.
"Stop!" Liu Erlong screamed desperately, her voice filled with anguish.
Chen Xuan moved like lightning. This time, he aimed for Yu Xiaogang's head, determined to finish the job.
"You dare?!"
"Stop this instant!"
"Chen Xuan, if you act recklessly, I'll make sure you die a thousand deaths!"
Bibi Dong, Flender, Liu Erlong, and the others unleashed their spirit power, using their fastest techniques to intervene.
Chapter 168: The Death of Yu Xiaogang
"Chen Xuan, stop this right now!" Liu Erlong roared hysterically, her voice hoarse with despair.
"Too late!"
Chen Xuan moved like a flash of lightning, striking decisively and mercilessly. His spear thrust downward toward Yu Xiaogang's head.
Yu Xiaogang's face turned pale with terror. Immobilized and unable to move a limb, he could only stare helplessly as the gleaming spearhead magnified before his eyes.
"No! Xiaogang!"
In that instant, Bibi Dong, Flender, Liu Erlong, and the others unleashed their soul power, all dashing frantically toward Chen Xuan in an attempt to stop him.
They pushed their speed to the limit, wishing desperately for a few extra legs to get there faster.
Bang!
A sickening squelch followed. Blood sprayed into the air, staining everything crimson. Brain matter and blood splattered across the ground as Yu Xiaogang's headless body crashed heavily to the earth.
There was no doubt—at such close range, no one could stop it. Yu Xiaogang didn't even have time to utter a sound. His head exploded like a watermelon, brain matter and hair scattered everywhere. Blood spattered Tyrone, leaving him drenched.
Tyrone, never having witnessed such a gruesome scene, fell to the ground in horror, his face ashen, nearly losing control of himself.
"Ahhh!"
"No! Xiaogang!"
Bibi Dong and Liu Erlong screamed, their voices heart-wrenching. Their disheveled hair and wild expressions bordered on madness.
But Chen Xuan wasn't done yet. Wielding his spear like a blade, he swung it in reverse, slashing down with a shimmering green arc of energy—razor-sharp and deadly.
The green light cleaved through Yu Xiaogang's headless corpse, splitting it cleanly in half. Blood and viscera spilled out, staining the earth beneath.
It all happened in an instant. From the moment Chen Xuan appeared to Yu Xiaogang's death, barely two seconds had passed. The brutality of it was jarring, and no one had been prepared for such a sudden turn of events.
Even in death, Yu Xiaogang would never have imagined he'd meet such a tragic and humiliating end.
Chen Xuan contemplated obliterating the corpse further, perhaps with a Fire Release technique to leave nothing behind. He doubted resurrection would be possible after such destruction.
Unfortunately, time was up. Bibi Dong and Liu Erlong were upon him, their strikes deadly enough to end his life. If he didn't flee now, he'd never leave the Pope's Palace alive.
"Life cannot be returned to the dead. My condolences to you all."
Boom!
A massive explosion erupted at the spot where Chen Xuan had stood. The ground caved into a deep crater, dust and debris flying everywhere. The entire arena trembled violently.
At the last possible moment, Chen Xuan used his space-time abilities, teleporting himself three kilometers away.
The moment he landed, he activated his martial soul's power once again, using pre-set formations to teleport repeatedly, covering a vast distance in moments.
Within seconds, he was far from the Pope's Palace, having traveled over ten miles at a speed nearly six times the speed of sound.
In Front of the Pope's Palace
Yu Xiaogang's headless and mangled corpse lay on the arena, blood and gore everywhere.
Just like Tang Hao before, Bibi Dong and Liu Erlong arrived too late. All that remained was Yu Xiaogang's lifeless body and Chen Xuan's parting words.
"Ahhhh!"
Bibi Dong's grief erupted in a deafening scream. Her disheveled hair flew wildly as her voice echoed through the entire Spirit City.
Far away, Chen Xuan paused, glancing back toward the Pope's Palace. Even at this distance, he could hear her anguished cry.
"Too bad… I didn't manage to take Tyrone out as well." Chen Xuan sighed regretfully.
He looked toward the Pope's Palace and muttered, "Life cannot be returned to the dead. My condolences, Your Majesty."
With that, he activated his space-time ability once more, vanishing into the void, heading toward his shadow clone's position.
With the Spirit Hall in full pursuit, his original escape plan was no longer viable. He needed to take an alternate route to leave Spirit City.
At the Pope's Palace
Bibi Dong and Liu Erlong were grief-stricken, their sorrow so deep it left them breathless.
Dai Mubai, Oscar, Ma Hongjun, Ning Rongrong, Zhu Zhuqing, and the others lowered their heads in silence, mourning their teacher. The tragedy had unfolded too quickly—one moment, Yu Xiaogang was alive and well, the next, he was brutally slain before their eyes.
Though saddened, the Shrek group could accept death to a degree. For them, the loss was painful, but not devastating.
For the two women who loved Yu Xiaogang, however, the pain was unimaginable.
Bibi Dong's face was streaked with tears, her heart broken beyond repair. Compared to Liu Erlong, her love for Yu Xiaogang ran even deeper. She was the one who suffered the most.
Her grief turned to fury, her voice cold and commanding: "All Spirit Hall Contra, hear my orders! Hunt down Chen Xuan at any cost! I want him brought back within a day—dead or alive!"
"Yes, Your Majesty!" The black-robed bishops dared not hesitate, immediately mobilizing every Contra and sword-wielding Spirit Master available to pursue Chen Xuan.
"Your Majesty, what about these people?" White-robed attendant Su Yuntao gestured toward the Shrek group, Ning Fengzhi, and Dugu Bo.
"Let them go!" Bibi Dong spat coldly. She waved her hand, gathering Yu Xiaogang's remains and blood with her soul power before disappearing from the arena.
Liu Erlong nearly charged after her, unwilling to let Yu Xiaogang's body be taken. But Dugu Bo stopped her with a shake of his head.
"Don't throw your life away," he said calmly. "He's gone. Let it go."
Ultimately, Ning Fengzhi and Sword Douluo persuaded Liu Erlong to leave with the others.
The Shrek group departed in silence, their spirits crushed. Yu Xiaogang's death weighed heavily on them, especially on Flender and Liu Erlong, who remained somber and mute.
Far Away
Chen Xuan finally reunited with his shadow clone, who had been carrying Xiao Wu. The clone had already traveled over fifty or sixty kilometers before its chakra was exhausted.
Originally, the plan had been to escape through the city walls. But when Spirit Hall knights and nearby Soul Emperors blocked his path, he was forced to alter his route.
Chen Xuan noticed soul masters probing the ground and dark corners with their senses, clearly attempting to locate his teleportation markings.
"They've figured out my Flying Thunder God technique," he realized grimly.
In a forest far from Spirit City, Chen Xuan's shadow clone dispersed, feeding its remaining chakra and information back to his main body.
During the journey, Xiao Wu had stubbornly resisted, preferring to die in Spirit City than flee with him. It took the clone explaining everything—his forced involvement with Spirit Hall and his true motives—for her to calm down.
"Xiao Wu, I'm sorry," Chen Xuan said sincerely. "I failed to consider your feelings."
"Hmph!" Xiao Wu pouted, but her anger had faded. Knowing the truth, she forgave him, though she still said haughtily, "This time I'll let it slide. If you do it again, I'll never talk to you again—and you'll never see your baby!"
Chen Xuan smiled wryly. "Not the time to argue."
Bibi Dong would soon unleash her full might to hunt him down. His only option was to escape Spirit City as fast as possible.
"Xiao Wu, guard me. I need time to recover my soul power." Chen Xuan sat beneath a tree, swallowing two pills to replenish his strength.
"Understood." Xiao Wu nodded firmly. For once, her usual playfulness was gone, replaced by somber resolve. She knew how dangerous their situation was—if discovered, neither would survive.
Watching Chen Xuan, her expression softened. A tear slipped down her cheek as she whispered, "You've done enough for me…"
Her hand touched her abdomen gently. "Baby, you won't blame Mommy, will you?"
Chapter 169: Luring the Tiger from the Mountain
Five minutes later
The towering gates of Spirit City stood firm, with hundred-meter-high walls guarding the city's civilians like a steadfast mountain.
A shadow flashed past the walls, darting into the distance.
Moments later, several streaks of light chased after it, flying through the air, relentless in their pursuit.
"Father, what about Xiao Wu? Aren't we going to take her with us?"
Tang San pleaded, hoping Tang Hao would rescue Xiao Wu and bring her along as they escaped Spirit City.
Tang San didn't know that his father had long been suffering from internal injuries. Just recently, during his battle with Bibi Dong, seven elders of Spirit Hall joined forces against Tang Hao. Though he appeared mighty, he was far from unscathed. Now, he was severely injured.
Spirit City was vast, and only now had the father and son managed to escape its confines.
Tang Hao carried his son across the skies, speeding toward the horizon, distancing themselves from Spirit City as fast as possible.
He glanced behind him. Three Titled Douluo—Chrysanthemum Douluo, Ghost Douluo, and Golden Crocodile Douluo—were in pursuit. Given his current condition, Tang Hao was in no state to counterattack.
"Sigh, Xiao San, forget about that girl," Tang Hao sighed deeply.
As they passed another region, Tang Hao had sensed Xiao Wu's aura heading toward another exit.
He had chosen not to rescue her because, in his current state, he couldn't risk another battle. It was already a miracle that he could get Tang San out safely.
Behind them, the three Titled Douluo continued their relentless pursuit. Their goal was to drive Tang Hao away, ensuring that the rabbit could not escape.
"Father, do you also disapprove of us?" Tang San's voice was filled with despair, but it was quickly drowned out by the howling wind.
Once outside Spirit City, Tang Hao unleashed a surge of soul power. In an instant, his body transformed into a black streak of light, tripling his speed. He flew several kilometers in a blink, widening the gap between him and the pursuers.
"Sigh, Xiao San, you should forget about that girl," Tang Hao said again, his tone softer but resolute. "With your talent, the world is full of girls who would suit you. Don't dwell on her anymore."
He sighed once more, trying to console his son.
That rabbit was pregnant and already married. Tang Hao couldn't bear the thought of his son marrying such an unsuitable match. It would be a disgrace to him and the Clear Sky Sect.
From a soul master's perspective, Tang Hao knew he should capture the 100,000-year-old rabbit, keep her imprisoned, and kill her when Tang San needed a spirit ring and spirit bone. But alas, there was no chance for that now.
"What do you mean, Father?" Tang San's pupils constricted, his body trembling as he picked up on the deeper meaning in Tang Hao's words.
Tang Hao didn't hide the truth. He replied directly, "As a Titled Douluo, I can sense her aura. Do you think others can't? That rabbit is likely doomed."
He continued, "The Grandmaster has taught you everything he can. From now on, I will personally guide you. Train hard, Xiao San. With your talent, you will surpass me one day."
Tang San's heart ached with sorrow. He loved Xiao Wu deeply, and knowing she was likely to die was unbearable.
Even though he understood the harsh reality—how could Xiao Wu survive in a city full of Titled Douluo?—it didn't lessen the pain tearing at his chest.
He was devastated, but he knew life had to go on. He needed to focus on the future and adjust his state of mind as quickly as possible.
Elsewhere, in the northwestern wilderness near Spirit City
Chen Xuan, having refined a few medicinal pills, had recovered much of his soul power. In addition, the miraculous plant from the Red Earth Realm continuously provided unique energy, alleviating his fatigue and replenishing his strength. This significantly shortened his recovery time.
Oddly, the plant didn't seem interested in absorbing the pills made from immortal herbs, as if it deemed them unworthy.
This was a relief for Chen Xuan. The plant was domineering, like a robber, and he wouldn't have been able to compete with it. Otherwise, he wouldn't have recovered his soul power within half a day.
Once his soul power reached 70%, Chen Xuan set off again, taking Xiao Wu with him as they fled northwest. Along the way, he created two shadow clones. One transformed into Xiao Wu's likeness and took a piece of her clothing.
The clones deliberately exposed themselves and ran in the opposite direction, drawing the pursuers away to buy time.
On this continent, shadow cloning was rare. Combined with his transformation technique, it was unlikely anyone would quickly see through the deception.
"We're here," Chen Xuan said, stopping at an alternative escape route, a more dangerous path.
This area, located north of Spirit City, was a wilderness far from the city. Beyond it lay the Soul Beast Forest.
This place, lacking city walls, was a gap in Spirit City's defenses. However, it was heavily guarded by knightly legions and an intricate defense system.
"There are so many people ahead. Are you really going to take this route?" Xiao Wu asked worriedly. In the forest, she could feel numerous terrifying presences, thick killing intent that even a Contra might struggle to withstand.
Chen Xuan whispered, "Don't worry. I don't plan to force my way through. I have another plan."
The most dangerous places are often the safest. Spirit Hall's pursuers would never expect them to double back and escape through this area.
Chen Xuan guessed that Spirit Hall would focus on guarding the city gates, expecting them to flee that way. With Bibi Dong's grudge against Yu Xiaogang, Spirit Hall would likely deploy all available forces to capture him. As a result, this area's defenses would be weaker.
As they entered the forest, only a few scattered knights patrolled the entrance. There were no signs of Contra-level soul masters.
"Shadow Clone Technique!" Chen Xuan swiftly formed seals. White mist erupted, and an identical figure appeared.
Boom!
Fifty meters away, a fire dragon soared into the sky, radiating intense heat and crashing toward the knights at the entrance.
"Enemy attack!" a golden-armored knight shouted, raising his shield and rallying the others to defend.
"Hurry! Notify the commander!" another knight yelled urgently.
Moments ago, they had received orders from the Pope. Now, faced with an attack, they were more vigilant than ever.
"There!" the knight leader pointed toward the top of a boulder, where a teenager in simple clothing stood, smirking mischievously before darting away.
"You stay here. The rest, follow me! Don't let him escape!"
The knights split into two groups, one guarding the entrance and the other chasing the intruder.
They were so focused on the fire dragon that they failed to notice a kunai flying silently overhead, vanishing into the darkness.
Meanwhile, 600 meters away, Chen Xuan landed lightly. He hurled another kunai into the distance. With a flash of yellow light, the two figures vanished again.
Inside a small wooden house
Three middle-aged men were brewing tea. Suddenly, one of them, an elderly white-haired man, turned pale. His teacup fell from his hand, shattering on the ground.
"Not good! Someone's breached the perimeter!"
The others' expressions darkened as they sensed the intruders—two auras moving rapidly toward the exit.
Their intentions were clear: escape Spirit City.
"Quick, inform the Pope! I suspect one of them is the Chen Xuan we're after!"
"We must act immediately!"
The white-haired man raised his hand to stop them, speaking rapidly. "No, their speed is on par with ours. By the time we reach them, they'll already be gone."
"Then what do we do? Sit idly and face the Pope's wrath?"
"Send word to the Platinum Bishop and Lord Roldeira to intercept them. Chen Xuan is from Shrek Academy. If they escape this wilderness, they'll likely head toward the Heaven Dou Empire. We'll ambush them on their route."
His reasoning was sound. Mindlessly pursuing would be futile. Instead, setting traps on their path would save time and effort.
In the wilderness
After fleeing for several kilometers, Chen Xuan noticed something unusual—no one was chasing them. The situation was strange, as if their trail had gone unnoticed.
"Chen Xuan, why did you stop?" Xiao Wu asked, clinging to his broad back. His warmth made her feel safe, briefly forgetting the surrounding danger.
Chen Xuan sighed. "No need to rush. Our movements have likely been exposed, and there's a high chance of an ambush ahead."
Chapter 170: Ambush
The Wilderness
On a towering mountain lush with vegetation and scattered with boulders, Chen Xuan stood at the peak, pausing his steps. He refrained from making any rash moves.
Carrying Xiao Wu on his back, he had already run over ten kilometers. Along the way, he deliberately slowed down and made some noise. However, as he had expected, things were eerily smooth—so smooth it was frightening. Not a single pursuer was behind them.
The smoother things went, the more abnormal they seemed, as if someone had deliberately arranged for this to happen, holding back the pursuers to let them leave Spirit Hall unimpeded.
Xiao Wu, lively and clever as she was, appeared somewhat naïve at times, but she was quite perceptive. Before long, she too sensed something was amiss—the journey had been far too quiet.
"Chen Xuan, let's take another route. There might be an ambush ahead," Xiao Wu said nervously, her intuition warning her of danger ahead.
Chen Xuan shook his head. Changing routes wouldn't make a difference. Given Spirit Hall's military strength, it was likely that every possible path was already ambushed.
"Don't worry. I'll find a way. No matter the cost, I will ensure that you and the child make it back to the Star Dou Forest safely," Chen Xuan reassured her, making a solemn promise.
Since ambushes were already set up outside, there was no point in panicking. The only thing he could do now was recover to his optimal state.
"I'm not scared!" Xiao Wu huffed, feigning anger.
However, a trace of sadness flickered in her eyes, which grew slightly misty.
Chen Xuan sat cross-legged to restore his spirit power, temporarily unaware of the outside world.
"I won't let you die!" Xiao Wu murmured, her gaze softening as she looked at him. Her determination was clear—she had already made up her mind.
This situation had arisen because of her, and it should end because of her. If she hadn't insisted on coming to Spirit Hall, today's events wouldn't have unfolded.
Chen Xuan was merely an outsider, dragged into this because of the child. He shouldn't have to sacrifice his future for her.
Xiao Wu's emotions surged. She felt conflicted and uneasy. This man, disregarding his own life, was determined to break through the encirclement for her. His fearlessness moved her deeply, filling her with a mixture of warmth and guilt.
Although she hadn't yet accepted him or shown her feelings, Chen Xuan's selfless dedication, even at the cost of his life, left her profoundly touched. It was a rare warmth, one she hadn't felt since her mother.
Before long, Chen Xuan slowly opened his eyes, having completed his rest. With the help of medicinal pills, he was nearly back to his peak condition.
"Chen Xuan, I've been such a burden to you," Xiao Wu said softly, her beautiful eyes dim with despair. She felt a deep sense of helplessness, unable to do anything in her current state.
Although she was a 100,000-year-old spirit beast in human form, she was only at the Spirit Ancestor level now, far from capable of dealing with Spirit Hall's elite forces.
This man was only sixteen or seventeen years old, not much older than her, yet he bore such heavy burdens and endured pressures far beyond his peers. Her heart ached with guilt.
Chen Xuan stood up, dusting himself off. Smiling at her, he said, "Don't say that again. There's no such thing as a burden. Even without you, those people would still want to kill me. Besides, you are…"
He stopped mid-sentence, deciding not to continue. In such a perilous situation, he didn't want to say anything overly emotional.
From Xiao Wu's perspective, unaware that Chen Xuan had killed Yu Xiaogang, she assumed his words were meant to lighten her psychological burden.
Even though she didn't have those kinds of feelings for him, this man constantly cared for her, prioritizing her safety and emotional well-being. He tried his best to shield her from guilt and sorrow.
Xiao Wu's heart warmed, her nose tingled, and her eyes welled up with tears. She quickly turned away, not wanting Chen Xuan to see her vulnerable state.
Chen Xuan raised his gaze slightly, his determination hardening. He was resolute—he would take her back to the Star Dou Forest.
Calming his thoughts, he took out a map from his storage soul tool. It depicted the general layout of Spirit Hall's terrain.
The exit from this wilderness led to a rocky region that was almost certainly ambushed.
"There's only one way," Chen Xuan muttered, looking at the northern section marked on the map.
Heading north would lead to a spirit beast forest not far away, a smaller reserve maintained by Spirit Hall. It wasn't large and lacked powerful ten-thousand-year spirit beasts.
The rocky terrain was unlike a forest—it offered little cover. Moreover, the exit was likely surrounded on all sides. Charging through head-on would be a death sentence.
However, there was another way. If the ground was blocked, they could go through the sky.
Chen Xuan guessed that their enemies wouldn't have anticipated an aerial escape. After all, neither he nor Xiao Wu was anywhere near the Spirit Emperor level, much less capable of flying.
"Let's go. We'll head into that spirit beast forest." Without hesitation, Chen Xuan threw a gleaming kunai into the distance.
"What are you doing?"
Acting decisively, Chen Xuan ignored Xiao Wu's protests, grabbed her long legs, and securely carried her on his back. Then, using his spatial abilities, he vanished in an instant, darting swiftly through the forest.
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