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After hearing Ning Fengzhi's words, Yang Xiong's expression became inscrutable. On one hand, he realized that some of his secrets had likely been uncovered. On the other hand, he felt relieved, as Ning Fengzhi probably didn't know about the immortal herbs he had obtained from the Ice-Fire Yin Yang Well.
The outer perimeter of the Ice-Fire Yin Yang Well was protected by Dugu Bo's remaining poison traps. Ordinary soul masters couldn't possibly break through them, and even Ning Fengzhi wouldn't have sent a Title Douluo to follow him. This meant that, for now, his activities within the Ice-Fire Yin Yang Well remained hidden.
Seeing the changing expressions on Yang Xiong's face, Ning Fengzhi assumed he had seen through Yang Xiong's little schemes.
"Xiao Xiong, your experience in the soul master world is still quite shallow. The soul master world is far crueler than you imagine. Numerous sects and factions vie for power. Although our Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect is considered one of the top three sects, we are not without rivals."
"The relationships between various sects and powers are deeply intertwined. Each faction has spies embedded within the others. For talented disciples who cannot be recruited, they are often eliminated in secret. The sect cannot allow disciples like you to wander alone outside. Take your recent trip to Sunset Forest as an example—many people attempted to harm you in secret, but we thwarted all their efforts."
Yang Xiong quickly responded, "Thank you, Sect Leader. I underestimated the harshness of the soul master world."
Ning Fengzhi shook his head. "It's not your fault. Though you've read many books and gained extensive knowledge about soul masters, what's written in books and reality are ultimately different. While you can cultivate alone within the sect and potentially grow very strong, becoming an advanced soul master requires more than just personal cultivation. You must undergo various trials and face numerous dangers. This is one of the reasons I want you and Rongrong to go out and study together."
"The environment in Suotuo City might be slightly less comfortable than in the sect, but the teaching staff there is quite good. It should benefit your growth."
After careful consideration, Yang Xiong finally spoke. "Sect Leader, I'm willing to go to Suotuo City, but I also have a small request. Please grant it."
Ning Fengzhi seemed intrigued. "Speak freely. I already told you to treat me as an elder."
Yang Xiong said, "Sect Leader, you should understand that my martial soul is unique. There are no successful precedents for it in the soul master world. I have my own cultivation methods. Even if I go to Suotuo City, I don't want anyone interfering with my approach or prying into my secrets. Every soul master has their own private matters, which may concern their future safety. If this condition isn't met, I'll have no choice but to return to the sect early."
Ning Fengzhi nodded. "That goes without saying. Respecting others' secrets is a fundamental principle in the soul master world. If such interference occurs, feel free to return immediately."
Yang Xiong finally relaxed. He didn't care much about the characters from the original storyline. As long as they didn't interfere with his cultivation, he could follow his own path.
After some thought, Ning Fengzhi continued, "Xiao Xiong, there are two more things you need to keep in mind."
"This time, it will appear as though only you and Rongrong are going to Suotuo City. When Rongrong starts school, she may meet new classmates and encounter new experiences. I don't want her growing too close to any boys."
Hearing this, Yang Xiong internally criticized Ning Fengzhi. These words were clearly meant to prevent his precious daughter from being swept away by some young man. Why hadn't Ning Fengzhi been so cautious in the original story? In fact, his daughter had ended up being taken away by a food-system soul master.
"Rest assured, Sect Leader. I'll stay close to Miss Rongrong and ensure no reckless individuals get near her."
Ning Fengzhi nodded in satisfaction. "That's good. By the way, there's one more thing. Uncle Bone has been secretly observing you, especially after you began cultivating The Way of Defense. He holds high hopes for you. After you graduate from school, I'll ask Uncle Bone to take you as his disciple."
"You should understand Uncle Bone's status in the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect. Having a Title Douluo as your teacher will greatly accelerate your cultivation and may even allow you to reach Uncle Bone's level."
Yang Xiong was startled. He had indeed suspected that someone among the sect's upper echelons was paying attention to him, particularly given the resources allocated to his cultivation. But he hadn't expected it to be Bone Elder.
In the world of Douluo, Title Douluos were at the pinnacle of the soul master world. Each Title Douluo was a towering figure. The Tian Dou Empire suffered precisely because it lacked a Title Douluo, while the top three sects maintained their dominance due to their presence.
"Thank you, Sect Leader, for your support, the sect's nurturing, and Uncle Bone's recognition. I will work hard in my cultivation and not disappoint the sect."
A faint smile appeared on Ning Fengzhi's face. "Xiao Xiong, there's no need to be so cautious. Though the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect isn't invincible, it's also not easily provoked. What's the big deal about a single soul bone? There's no need to hide it. I doubt anyone would dare challenge our sect over a soul bone."
"Remember what I said earlier—the sect is your home. As long as you remain loyal, the sect will strive to provide you with any resources you need, even top-tier soul rings or soul bones. According to our sect's rules, the sect won't covet your personal opportunities."
Yang Xiong quickly expressed his gratitude. "Thank you, Sect Leader. I'll work hard in my cultivation and do my best to contribute to the sect."
"Xiao Xiong, everything at home will be arranged. Go prepare now, and set off early tomorrow morning."
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After this conversation, Yang Xiong returned home.
However, as soon as he arrived, his previously smiling face turned serious.
Ning Fengzhi was far more formidable than he had imagined. His tactic of alternating rewards with subtle pressure was skillfully executed. A normal twelve-year-old child would have likely fallen for it completely.
But Ning Fengzhi clearly underestimated him, especially the secrets Yang Xiong carried. If Ning Fengzhi knew about the numerous immortal herbs in his possession—herbs capable of altering the balance of power across the entire Douluo Continent—would he still remain so calm?
Nevertheless, Yang Xiong had witnessed the depth and thoroughness of the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect. The sect truly spared no effort for its talented youths.
Upon further reflection, Yang Xiong realized there was another potential benefit to attending Shrek Academy.
Given his personality, conflicts with the characters from the original storyline were inevitable. He would then observe how Ning Fengzhi reacted and whether the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect was truly worthy of his loyalty.
Yang Xiong briefly explained the sect's arrangements to his parents. Yang Lin and Sun Yu no longer questioned his decision regarding schooling.
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