In the Spirit Hall battle team, most of the training and guidance were handled by Teacher Liu Can. Known for his meticulous and rigorous methods, Liu Can understood each team member thoroughly.
On the other hand, Teacher Lin Zhendong usually appeared at critical moments, using his vast experience and wisdom to guide and encourage the team.
Earlier, the sparring match between Yan and Xie Yue had caused quite a commotion, drawing the attention of both teachers. That's why they arrived at the training ground.
"Good day, Teacher Lin! Teacher Liu!"
The group greeted the two teachers in unison.
Lin Zhendong's sharp gaze swept across the group before finally landing on Xie Yue, Yan, and Hu Liena. His face showed a satisfied smile.
"It seems that all three of you have completed the mission set by Her Majesty the Pope, successfully reaching level 40 and acquiring your fourth spirit ring. Excellent."
Xie Yue, as the team leader, responded on behalf of the trio:
"Teacher, as you said, we did it."
Yan and Hu Liena simply nodded in agreement.
Lin Zhendong continued:
"I heard from the other trainees that the two of you had quite a lively sparring session earlier. I'm curious, what was the outcome?"
Xie Yue admitted his defeat with remarkable candor.
"Teacher, I lost."
"Oh? You lost to Yan?"
Teacher Liu Can seemed slightly surprised, exchanging a glance with Lin Zhendong. The result was unexpected.
"Yes, Teacher. I lost to Yan's self-made soul skill, Fiery Sand Cage."
Xie Yue's tone carried no bitterness or frustration, only calm acceptance.
"Fiery Sand Cage?"
Liu Can asked with a hint of curiosity:
"Yan, is that a self-created spirit skill you developed in just two months?"
"Teacher, I had been working on it for some time. Initially, I was experimenting with fusing fire and earth elements to create a move that could trap opponents. I didn't expect it to succeed so soon."
Yan's voice was steady, revealing a newfound humility and confidence that left both teachers impressed.
Both teachers also noticed that after this recent Death Canyon trial, Yan seemed transformed, not as brash and overbearing as before, but more composed and open-minded.
In Yan's memory, his relationship with Lin Zhendong had not always been smooth.
Lin Zhendong carried an innate pride but appreciated talent. However, Yan's arrogant and sharp-edged personality wasn't his preferred type.
Even in front of the teachers, Yan would sometimes display arrogance.
Within the Spirit Hall battle team, Lin Zhendong favored the calm and collected Xie Yue and the mature Sun Chuantao.
Yan now realized that Lin Zhendong, entrusted by Bibi Dong to oversee the team, was undoubtedly capable, both powerful and knowledgeable.
To grow stronger, humility and a willingness to learn were essential.
Yan decided to change and no longer act like his old self.
"Good," Lin Zhendong said, simply and concisely. He didn't delve further into Yan's self-created skill.
Then, he announced the new training plan:
"Xie Yue, Yan, and Hu Liena, now that you've broken through level 40, the previous training regimen no longer suits you. Starting tomorrow, I'll arrange new training content."
"Understood," the three responded in unison, filled with anticipation and determination for the future.
"You others should also focus on your cultivation and aim to reach level 40 soon."
"Yes!"
Sun Chuantao and the others replied crisply.
Satisfied, Lin Zhendong nodded and left the training ground with Liu Can.
Having just returned to Spirit City, Yan, Xie Yue, and Hu Liena had no immediate training plans. They could take the day to rest and prepare for the new challenges ahead.
Yan left the training ground. Meanwhile, Xie Yue and Hu Liena also headed back to their residence, chatting along the way.
"Brother, I wonder what kind of training Teacher Lin will arrange for us tomorrow."
"Who knows? Whatever the challenge, we must face it calmly."
"Of course."
"By the way, did Her Majesty the Pope ask for anything special when she summoned you?"
"No, we just chatted."
Hu Liena still felt uneasy about her brother's defeat to Yan.
"Brother, are you serious about recognizing Yan as the leader?"
"Of course! Haven't you noticed? Yan has changed, not only has he grown stronger, but he's also become more mature and responsible. Having someone like him as our leader isn't a bad idea."
"But..."
Hu Liena hesitated, swallowing her words.
Upon reflection, she realized her brother was right. Yan did seem to have undergone a transformation, a rebirth of sorts.
"Nana, you shouldn't resist it. Yan didn't even use his external spirit bone. If he had, my defeat would have been even more decisive."
"I know."
"We can't afford to ignore him anymore. I have a feeling Yan will soon surpass us completely. We need to work harder, too."
Hu Liena furrowed her brows but remained silent, her thoughts spinning:
Yan, I won't let you surpass me.
Meanwhile, Yan returned to his quarters but didn't rest. After tidying up briefly, he headed out.
As night fell, Yan moved quickly through the streets until he arrived at a grand mansion.
This was the residence of Chrysanthemum Douluo Yue Guan.
Yan looked up at the luxurious plaque above the gate, took a deep breath, and knocked.
Soon, a servant opened the door.
Seeing Yan, the servant was surprised but quickly informed Yue Guan.
Moments later, Yue Guan himself appeared with curiosity and puzzlement written on his face.
"Yan? What brings you here at this hour?"
"Elder Yue, I apologize for the disturbance. I have some concerns troubling me and couldn't sleep. I'd like to seek your guidance."
"Is that so? Come in, then."
Yue Guan studied Yan carefully, noting his seriousness, and stepped aside to let him enter.
Yan had always stayed at the Spirit Hall Academy, so this was his first time visiting Yue Guan's residence.
As one of Bibi Dong's trusted aides, Yue Guan lived a privileged life.
The interior was lavishly decorated, exuding an air of nobility and elegance.
After they were seated, Yue Guan ordered tea to be served.
"Yan, with our relationship, there's no need for formalities. Just speak your mind."
Yan sipped his tea before finally revealing his purpose.
"Elder Yue, do you know any methods to help me suppress the fiery aura within my body?"
Hearing this, Yue Guan furrowed his brows, a hint of confusion flashing across his face.