Fan Yu stood still for a moment, clearly seething, but found himself at a loss for words in the face of Han Yu's challenge. He had expected a fiery confrontation, but instead, he was met with a calm defiance that left him unsettled. His anger was driven by his deep concern for Zhou Yi, whose injury threatened not just her physical well-being but also the life they had built together. It was an emotional response, clouding his judgment, and he had no immediate reply to Han Yu's sharp question.
Du Weilun, sensing the tension, stepped in to defuse the situation. "I have already contacted Dean Yan," he said, his voice steady. "He will help us resolve this matter."
Han Yu, leaning back in his seat, felt no particular urgency. He figured that those at Shrek Academy, being reasonable people, would understand the truth of the matter and ultimately make the right call. The conflict would resolve itself soon enough.
A moment later, hurried footsteps echoed down the hallway, followed by the appearance of an elderly man dressed in white. His presence commanded immediate respect, and behind him was the teacher who had left earlier. The old man, Dean Yan Shaozhe, entered the office with an air of authority and spoke directly.
"I've already been briefed on the situation," Dean Yan said, his voice calm but firm. "Zhou Yi was at fault first, but she has taught many inner courtyard disciples for this academy, so we will ensure she receives the best care."
Fan Yu's frown deepened. His dissatisfaction was palpable, and it was clear he wasn't ready to let this go just yet. "But her injury—" he began, only to be cut off by Yan Shaozhe's stern gaze.
"This is a matter for my Wuhun Department," Yan Shaozhe said, his voice low and commanding. "Teacher Fan Yu, you belong to the Soul Guidance Department. This does not concern you directly. If there is anything else to discuss, Qian Duoduo can speak for the Soul Guidance Department."
Fan Yu opened his mouth to argue but was silenced by Yan Shaozhe's tone. After a moment of tension, Yan continued, his expression softening slightly. "While I acknowledge that Classmate Han Yu did not act with malicious intent, injuring a teacher is still a serious matter. His actions have been recorded as a major offense. He has a lot to learn in terms of restraint and should reflect on this incident."
Despite the gravity of the statement, Yan Shaozhe's words were measured, offering both a reprimand and a chance for growth.
Fan Yu, his frustration somewhat alleviated by the acknowledgment of Zhou Yi's condition, let out a long sigh. "In that case, I will take my leave. Please handle it as you see fit."
With a final glance at Han Yu, Fan Yu clasped his hands together, bowed slightly, and left the room. The tension in the air lightened somewhat as he departed.
Du Weilun, who had been silently observing the exchange, let out a small breath of relief. "Well, I believe that settles the matter for now," he said, turning to Han Yu with a nod of acknowledgment.
Han Yu, still sitting calmly, didn't seem overly concerned by the outcome. He had made his point, and now it was up to the academy to decide. He had no intention of letting the situation linger, but he was also aware that in a place like Shrek Academy, matters like this would soon blow over.
As the door closed behind Fan Yu, Dean Yan turned to Han Yu, his expression softening. "You've proven yourself capable, Han Yu. Just remember, there are ways to approach conflicts that don't always involve force. Use your strength wisely, and you'll find that the academy can be a place of great opportunity."
Han Yu gave a small nod in response. He understood the underlying message: while strength was important, wisdom and restraint were just as crucial in a place like this. He had much to learn, but he was ready for the challenge.
"Thank you, Dean Yan," Han Yu said, standing up. "I'll keep that in mind."
With that, the matter was officially closed for now, and Han Yu left the office, his mind already moving forward to the next challenge.
Han Yu's mind was racing, and his expression remained cold as he processed the situation. The mark of a major offense, as Dean Yan had mentioned, was not something to be taken lightly. A punishment like that could follow him for the rest of his life, staining his reputation across the continent. It was the kind of thing that could end his potential career before it even began, and that wasn't something Han Yu was willing to accept.
He had come to Shrek Academy seeking freedom, the opportunity to learn and grow, but what he had found was a system that, despite its prestige, was full of rules and limitations. Yan Shaozhe's offer, to cancel the demerit if Han Yu excelled in the freshman assessment, felt more like an empty bribe—a way to force him to toe the line.
Han Yu wasn't some naive newcomer who could be manipulated with promises of rewards. He saw through the veil of authority, recognizing it as a mere tool to keep students in check and prevent any challenges to the system. He wasn't going to play that game. He had no intention of groveling for his future.
His gaze hardened as he looked at Yan Shaozhe, who had once again tried to placate him with soothing words. The smile that followed Dean Yan's offer felt patronizing, as if the elder thought Han Yu was some child who needed guidance. In truth, Han Yu had never been the type to rely on anyone's "help" or approval. The offer was clear: conform, be part of their system, and your mistakes will be forgiven. But Han Yu had no intention of being anyone's puppet.
"I know," Han Yu replied coldly, not bothering to engage further. "Nothing else, I'll leave."
Yan Shaozhe's smile faltered, but he didn't press the matter. He had already made his offer, and if Han Yu wasn't willing to accept, that was his choice. "Very well," the dean said, nodding thoughtfully. "You know where we are if you change your mind. Shrek Academy will always have its doors open for those willing to prove themselves."
But Han Yu wasn't listening anymore. He had made his decision.
Without another word, he turned and exited the office, his steps firm and determined. The events of the day had left him with a sour taste in his mouth, but they also reinforced his resolve. Shrek Academy might have been a powerful institution, but it was also a place of rigid rules and expectations. If they couldn't respect him for who he was and what he stood for, then he would leave.
The day was far from over, and Han Yu knew he had to act quickly. He needed to escape Shrek Academy quietly before the night fell. He would leave behind the structure, the authority, and the expectations. If this was how they treated those who dared to challenge the norm, he would carve his own path.
As he walked through the halls, the thoughts of leaving swirled in his mind. Shrek Academy had been a stepping stone, not a destination. He would find another place to learn, somewhere that valued strength and individuality over rigid obedience. The continent was vast, and his potential was limitless.
Tonight, Han Yu would begin the next phase of his journey.
Yan Shaozhe watched Han Yu leave with a smile, unaffected by his cold attitude. He understood that being handed a serious demerit must have left Han Yu in a bad mood. After all, no one would be happy to face such a punishment.
Du Weilun, still concerned, spoke up: "Dean, don't you think this might be bad for Han Yu? If he holds a grudge against the academy, we could lose such a talented student."
He continued, his tone thoughtful, "After all, he's the one who severely injured a Soul Emperor-level teacher. Even though Zhou Yi didn't use any soul skills, it's still impressive."
Yan Shaozhe waved off Du Weilun's concerns. "Grudge? What grudge could he have? He should actually be thanking the academy. Right now, he's probably terrified by the serious demerit. But once he realizes that with his talent, he'll do well in the freshman assessment, he'll see that this is just a stepping stone."
He leaned forward, his voice full of confidence. "Once he performs well, I'll cancel the demerit. I've also promised him the chance to become a core disciple. He should be grateful. I'm sure he'll be so thrilled that he won't be able to sleep."
Yan Shaozhe smiled, knowing that few students ever reached the status of a core disciple in Shrek Academy. That would surely excite Han Yu.
Du Weilun hesitated, sensing something was off but struggling to pinpoint exactly what it was. After a moment of thought, he reluctantly agreed, "You're right. If I were handling this, I'm not sure I'd do it as well as you. On one hand, it satisfies Fan Yu, and on the other, it makes Han Yu grateful to the academy. It's truly a win-win."
Yan Shaozhe nodded, pleased with the outcome. It was a delicate balance of appeasing both Fan Yu and Han Yu, all while securing the academy's interests. His plan was flawless.
Listening to Du Weilun's somewhat flattering words, Yan Shaozhe's smile grew even wider. "Wei Lun, I trust you when it comes to getting things done, but your overall perspective could still use some improvement. You'll learn more as time goes on."
Du Weilun's mouth twitched, silently thinking, If I had the strength of a Titled Douluo, it wouldn't be clear who the real dean would be. He couldn't help but feel a bit irked by Yan Shaozhe's overly proud response to such a simple compliment.
Yan Shaozhe continued, unfazed. "By the way, Han Yu should be assigned to Class 9 under Mu Jin. With his conflict with Zhou Yi, he can't stay in Class 1 anymore. Also, make sure to investigate his background thoroughly to see if he's really a good fit for the academy."
Du Weilun nodded. "Understood, I'll handle it right away."
What they didn't know was that their plan would likely work on Huo Yuhao, but it wouldn't be as effective with Han Yu.
Dormitory 109.
Han Yu was packing up his things, preparing to leave. His plan was simple: pack, attend the last class, and then slip away from Shrek Academy unnoticed.
Suddenly, a system notification echoed in his mind.
Ding!
The system wakes up and detects that the host's emotions are fluctuating greatly. A task is issued! Please win the freshman assessment championship and then leave Shrek Academy.
Do you accept?
Completion rewards: One purple treasure chest!
After completing this task, the next advanced task will begin: Defeat the Shrek team!
Han Yu blinked in surprise. The system decides to pop up now and give me a task? He couldn't help but feel a mix of confusion and curiosity about this new objective.
Listening to Du Weilun's somewhat flattering words, Yan Shaozhe's smile grew even wider. "Wei Lun, I trust you when it comes to getting things done, but your overall perspective could still use some improvement. You'll learn more as time goes on."
Du Weilun's mouth twitched, silently thinking, If I had the strength of a Titled Douluo, it wouldn't be clear who the real dean would be. He couldn't help but feel a bit irked by Yan Shaozhe's overly proud response to such a simple compliment.
Yan Shaozhe continued, unfazed. "By the way, Han Yu should be assigned to Class 9 under Mu Jin. With his conflict with Zhou Yi, he can't stay in Class 1 anymore. Also, make sure to investigate his background thoroughly to see if he's really a good fit for the academy."
Du Weilun nodded. "Understood, I'll handle it right away."
What they didn't know was that their plan would likely work on Huo Yuhao, but it wouldn't be as effective with Han Yu.
Dormitory 109.
Han Yu was packing up his things, preparing to leave. His plan was simple: pack, attend the last class, and then slip away from Shrek Academy unnoticed.
Suddenly, a system notification echoed in his mind.
Ding!
The system wakes up and detects that the host's emotions are fluctuating greatly. A task is issued! Please win the freshman assessment championship and then leave Shrek Academy.
Do you accept?
Completion rewards: One purple treasure chest!
After completing this task, the next advanced task will begin: Defeat the Shrek team!
Han Yu blinked in surprise. The system decides to pop up now and give me a task? He couldn't help but feel a mix of confusion and curiosity about this new objective.
Han Yu was momentarily stunned. The system chose this moment to "wake up" and issue a task, and its timing couldn't have been more inconvenient. He wasn't particularly interested in the soul bone reward for winning the championship; that wasn't what motivated him. What mattered more was the chance to stick it to Shrek Academy.
The system even noticed my emotions and decided to give me a task. Fine, Shrek's long-standing glory, huh? I'll show you how easily it can all be taken away. Han Yu thought to himself, a small, bitter smile creeping onto his face.
Although he was furious with Yan Shaozhe's actions, Han Yu wasn't about to lose control. Revenge wasn't his style—not in the impulsive, reckless way many would imagine. No, Han Yu preferred to strike when the time was right. The upcoming Soul Master competition would be his perfect opportunity to show Shrek Academy that there were some people you just couldn't afford to offend.
The weight of Shrek's glory has corrupted them. He thought bitterly. But I'll be the one to take it all down from the inside, piece by piece.
The task presented to him seemed like a simple, though satisfying, goal for now. He had three months to prepare. The idea of winning the freshman championship and leaving without saying a word had a certain appeal—especially if it made Yan Shaozhe's face twist in frustration.
What really caught Han Yu's attention, though, was the purple-level treasure chest reward. This was the key point. This was the first time such a treasure chest had appeared. The treasure chest could unlock the next stage of tasks, which was something Han Yu couldn't ignore.
In the past six years, he had opened only four treasure chests, and the system had remained mostly passive. The first chest had amplified his mental capacity, the second gave him a shadow clone ability, the third enhanced his thunder attributes, and the fourth improved his general attributes, even alleviating his negative states.
Had any of them been game-changers? Not really. They had helped with his cultivation and attack capabilities, but none of them had made a truly monumental difference. This purple treasure chest, though, felt different. It might just be what he needed to push him to the next level.
The biggest advantage Han Yu had right now was his Sharingan martial soul, but when taken individually, the abilities didn't seem very impressive. However, their true power came when they were combined. His mental attribute had increased by 50%, and he now had access to shadow clones for cultivating cheats, Chidori for attack, and more. His combat power, basic attributes, and cultivation speed were all solid.
Still, Han Yu was most excited about the purple-level treasure chest.
System, accept! he thought, eager for what it would bring.
"Ding! The host has accepted the task. The reward will be issued after the task is completed!"
"Ding! The system has entered sleep mode."
Han Yu wasn't surprised. The system had a tendency to go into sleep mode at random intervals. He had learned to ignore it over time.
With the task now in place, Han Yu knew he had to stay focused. He couldn't afford distractions, and going to the freshman class was the perfect way to start. He had been caught by Du Weilun earlier and notified about his new class assignment.
Class Nine was on the same floor as Class One, and it was located next to the other freshman classes, including Classes Two, Three, and Four. Han Yu made his way there effortlessly, his mind still partly occupied by the new mission.
When he reached the classroom, he glanced inside. Since Zhou Yi was recovering from her injuries, a middle-aged teacher was taking over the lesson. Unlike Zhou Yi, who was intense and imposing, this teacher exuded a gentle, calming presence.
Dongdongdong! The sound of knocking echoed through the room.
"Come in!" the teacher called out.
A crisp voice sounded as the door to the classroom opened, and Han Yu stepped inside. The moment he entered, all eyes in the class turned toward him.
"Hello, classmate Han Yu. I'm Mu Jin, the head teacher of Class Nine. I'll be your head teacher from now on. Please find a seat and take a seat," Mu Jin said with a warm smile, clearly expecting his arrival.
"Yes, Teacher!" Han Yu responded, his gaze briefly lingering on Mu Jin.
Mu Jin appeared to be around thirty years old, though her youthful features made her seem younger. She wore the standard teacher's uniform of Shrek Academy, which subtly highlighted her fair skin. The uniform's skirt, paired with flesh-colored stockings underneath, gave her a unique, graceful aura. It was clear that her presence had an elegant charm, but Han Yu paid more attention to the students, knowing that his new task in this class had just begun.