Time flew by, and as Mo Fan's long-awaited duel approached, Ye Chenfeng boarded the train back to Bo City. During this time, he finally mastered his natural dual-element affinity, balancing his fire and ice abilities after refining an ice spirit seed. His current ratio stood at fire 2.5 times to ice 2.9 times—while not perfect, it was within a controllable range. He knew better than to waste millions testing the balance by buying more spirit seeds.
…
Back in Bo City, the Mu family was busy preparing in their manor. Mu Ningxue, who had returned early from vacation, frowned as she glanced at a message on her phone. Noticing her, Ye Chenfeng approached with a smile, ready to greet her warmly—but she stepped aside, dodging his attempt at a hug. Ye just smiled, undeterred.
"Hey, look who it is!" murmured someone nearby, commenting on Ye's boldness.
Ignoring the stares, Mu Ningxue invited him inside. In the banquet hall, Ye Chenfeng eyed the desserts, only to be interrupted by Mu Ningxue's voice.
"Yu Ang won't hold back. He follows my father's orders to a fault and won't hesitate to be ruthless," she said, and Ye reluctantly put down the treat.
"Oh, so that's why you seemed upset—it's because of that duel," Ye said, realizing his indirect role in encouraging Mo Fan. He tried to reassure her, "Don't worry; Mo Fan's not one to go down easily."
After a moment, he handed her a white gift box. "Since your coming-of-age ceremony was canceled, I thought this might cheer you up." Mu Ningxue gave him a puzzled look before turning away. Accepting her cue, Ye let her be and mingled with familiar faces.
…
"Instructor Zhankong!" Ye looked up to see Zhan Kong in conversation with some younger women.
"Hah! Didn't recognize me, huh?" Zhan Kong teased. Ye smirked, but before he could reply, Mo Fan joined them, playfully nudging Ye.
Zhan Kong's expression grew serious. "One last time—are you interested in joining the military?"
Mo Fan shook his head. "I prefer exploring big cities to watching borders."
"Fine. But be careful in that duel with Yu Ang," Zhan Kong warned, hinting that something was amiss with Yu Ang.
Mo Fan exchanged a glance with Ye Chenfeng, who cryptically suggested, "Either there's something up with his background or his strength."
Meanwhile, Mu Zhuoyun took the spotlight, raising a toast to Bo City's future. As the banquet guests applauded, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation. At last, the moment arrived: from across the room, Yu Ang entered the arena, dressed to impress.
"Let the duel begin!" announced the official, marking the start of the eagerly awaited showdown.