Chapter 97: Unprecedented Soul Power Levels, Farewells, and Return
There was no denying it flying freely through the unobstructed sky was significantly faster than traveling on foot. Of course, the presence of two Titled Douluo ensuring their safety allowed them to move at full speed without restraint.
By the time the moon had just begun to rise, the four of them had already reached the outskirts of the small town. Retracting their wings, they entered the town together.
After meeting up with Luo Sago, the group settled near the carriage, found an empty spot, and bought some ready made food from the town for a simple celebration.
Well, it was more than just a celebration it was also a farewell dinner. The next morning, the three of them would part ways with Dugu Bo.
Sitting around the bonfire, Dugu Bo clinked cups with Guang Ling, took a sip of his drink, and then glanced at the two young ones chatting and laughing nearby. He sighed, "Ah… youth truly is wonderful."
"You're not exactly old, you know. Haven't you regained your youth? From the outside, you look like a middle aged man at best. In fact, if you count the extended lifespan from reaching the Titled Douluo realm, you're practically still a young adult. If you're envious, it's not too late to find yourself a new wife."
Perhaps due to the impending separation, Guang Ling's usual sharp tongued remarks had softened significantly. While still teasing, his tone was much milder than usual.
"Tch, you think everyone is like you? A baby face and a personality that never grew past childhood."
Dugu Bo's counterattacks, on the other hand, had only grown sharper.
"Are you looking for a fight?"
Guang Ling's expression darkened. I was letting you off easy, and now you're attacking me instead?
"Relax, don't take it seriously. Just talking. Once Yan Yan reaches Wuhun City, I'll leave her in your care while I take care of things on my end."
Dugu Bo waved him off nonchalantly and turned his attention back to Guang Ling.
"You don't need to remind me I'll naturally take care of my disciple's wife."
Guang Ling responded with a deliberately sarcastic tone.
"I thought you didn't agree to that arrangement?"
Dugu Bo shot him a glance.
"Does it even matter whether I agree? Your granddaughter already absorbed that soul bone. If she manages to run away from Han Li now, I'd say I've failed as a teacher."
Guang Ling smirked triumphantly.
"Damn it… You and that brat Han Li are both conniving bastards completely heartless."
Dugu Bo cursed under his breath.
"Oh? Now that's rich resorting to personal attacks? We, the righteous Wuhun Hall, are upstanding individuals. Meanwhile, you, old man, have the worst reputation. If anything, we should be the ones distancing ourselves from you."
Guang Ling scoffed, his response neither too harsh nor too soft.
"Hah… Fine, fine. My reputation is the worst. Then again… I suppose, in this continent, Wuhun Hall isn't actually that bad. At the very least, you guys actually do things."
Dugu Bo chuckled. He no longer held as much animosity toward Wuhun Hall.
I've already boarded this ship what else can I do? Besides, Han Li and Guang Ling suited his taste well… even if they were both ruthless schemers.
Oh well, it's not like I'm a saint either. We're all just corrupt individuals helping each other out.
"Han Li's at level 34 now, and Yan Yan just hit level 33. I still can't wrap my head around it… especially considering that brat isn't even eight years old yet."
Dugu Bo shifted the topic, now focusing on the two young ones. He couldn't help but feel a headache coming on.
"Tell me about it. If I hadn't personally watched Han Li grow step by step, I wouldn't believe it either."
Guang Ling looked at Han Li with a mix of affection and disbelief. His tone turned almost dreamy as he muttered, "I mean, I only took Han Li out for three months. And when we get back, he'll have jumped from level 20 to level 34. Imagine how many people that's going to scare to death."
"Hahaha! Scaring people is great! Hopefully, it'll scare that damn Chrysanthemum Douluo to death!"
Dugu Bo burst into laughter and clinked his drink against Guang Ling's before taking a deep gulp.
As the night deepened, they eventually returned to the carriage, and the area fell silent.
Perhaps because they all got a good night's sleep, they woke up as soon as the sky began to brighten.
Dugu Yan and Dugu Bo huddled together, sharing final words of advice, making promises about when they'd meet again. It took them a while before they finally returned to the breakfast table.
After a simple meal, the moment of farewell had arrived.
Dugu Yan couldn't hold back her emotions. Crying, she threw herself into her grandfather's embrace. She had rarely been apart from him for more than a month, and now, knowing that she wouldn't see him for at least six months, the sorrow washed over her before she had even left.
Han Li and Guang Ling simply watched from the side, knowing this was not a moment for them to interrupt.
Eventually, under Dugu Bo's comforting words, Dugu Yan's emotions settled. Reluctantly, she pulled herself from his embrace, red eyed, and stepped beside Han Li.
"All right, you all should get going. I won't be taking the carriage I'll fly straight back."
Standing outside the carriage, Dugu Bo waved them off, signaling that it was time to depart.
"Alright, old poison. See you in Wuhun City."
Guang Ling left a casual remark before stepping into the carriage.
"Senior, see you in Wuhun City. I'll take good care of Yan ."
Han Li reassured Dugu Bo while holding onto Dugu Yan's hand.
"Haha, I trust you won't let her down. Yan Yan, go on now. It's time for you to leave your grandfather's side and explore the world."
Dugu Bo smiled warmly. Though his eyes carried reluctance, they also held pride and encouragement.
"Mm… Grandpa, I understand. Take care of yourself. Also, when you return, please tell Lingling that I'll be back. Hand her my letter personally."
Dugu Yan gave her grandfather one last hug before emphasizing her request. Then, with a final, reluctant glance, she followed Han Li into the carriage.
"Farewell, Senior."
Through the window, Han Li gave a respectful nod.
"Until we meet again."
Dugu Bo stood by the roadside, watching as the carriage gradually disappeared into the distance.
Only when it was completely out of sight did he turn around. Under the envious gazes of the townsfolk, he summoned his wings and soared into the sky.
Ten days later.
At the gates of Wuhun City, a luxurious carriage slowly rolled into town after nearly three months away.
"So this is Wuhun City?"
Dugu Yan, who had long since recovered, leaned out of the carriage window, eyes filled with curiosity as she observed the lively streets.
"Yep. What do you think? Pretty impressive, right?"
Han Li chuckled beside her.
"There are so many soul masters! I've never seen a city with this many gathered in one place. And it's so different from Tian Dou City there, commoners seem to avoid soul masters, but here, they're talking and interacting like it's nothing."
Dugu Yan withdrew her gaze, deep in thought.
"If you're interested, we can explore together another day you'll see for yourself."
Han Li closed the book in his hand and stretched.
They were almost at the base of Consecration Mountain from here, they'd have to proceed on foot.
He had already asked his master. He was allowed to bring Dugu Yan up the mountain, but until Qian Daoliu gave his approval, she would be restricted to the designated residential area.
Still, that was more than enough for now.
The carriage soon arrived at the mountain's base, and after bidding farewell to Luo Sago and giving him a personal identification token, they watched as the delighted driver departed.
"Alright, let's head up. First, I'll show you where I live."
Han Li pulled Dugu Yan along as they made their way up the mountain.
As they entered the residential area, a familiar voice called out
"Han Li! You're back!"
Looking ahead, Han Li saw Xiu'er running toward him at full speed.
(End of Chapter)
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