Afternoon, Training Grounds of Shrek Academy
Zhao Wuji stood at the front of the assembled group, arms crossed, his short and burly frame somehow casting an impressively long shadow across the sunlit ground. He glanced back at the students with a stern expression.
"Alright, brats," he growled, his voice low and serious. "Today, we head to the Star Dou Forest. For those of you who've only played in hunting forests before—this is the real deal. You will be facing Life and death experience"
"I'll be going with you," he added, pausing before continuing grimly, "but don't expect me to spoon-feed you. When it comes to century-year-old soul beasts, you'll be on your own."
Oscar bounced with excitement, practically shoving Zhao Wuji toward the academy gate. "Teacher Zhao, hurry up already! I can't wait anymore—let's go!"
Ma Hongjun, patting his ample belly, chimed in with a hopeful look.
"Uh, Teacher Zhao, will there be snacks along the way? I travel better on a full stomach."
Zhao Wuji gave him a deadpan look. "Do I look like a food vendor to you?"
"Actually—" Ma Hongjun started.
"Shut it," Wuji snapped. "Carry dry rations. Cooking in the forest will just attract trouble."
Tang Yin stepped up beside him, curious. "Teacher Zhao, how long will the journey take?"
"If you brats can keep up, about a day," Wuji replied. "The forest isn't far, but the terrain's rough. Once we're in, stay alert. Soul beasts won't line up politely to donate their soul rings."
Ning Rongrong huffed, brushing a speck of dust from her pristine robe. "I just hope my clothes don't get ruined before we even arrive."
Dai Mubai, already striding half a step ahead, gave her a teasing glance. "We're not going on a picnic, princess," he said, clearly sizing up her delicate frame.
Ning Rongrong & zhu zhuqing both shot him a glare sharper than dagger, and Dai Mubai wisely shut his mouth.
The group began their trip along a forest-lined dirt road winding eastward. Tang Yin jogged beside Xiao Wu, who was unusually quiet. He felt a twinge of sadness—parting from this bunny was never easy.
Spotting Oscar puffing along behind them, Tang Yin turned and asked, "You excited? You'll be getting your third ring soon."
"I'd be lying if I said I wasn't…" Oscar admitted. "But finding the soul beast with the perfect age —it's tough for food-type soul masters."
Tang Yin chuckled. "Don't worry. With over a million soul beasts in Star Dou Forest, you're bound to find one that fits just right."
Oscar brightened. "Thanks! That helps. But aren't you nervous? You are also at level 30 right?"
Tang yin nodded his head but didn't answer and diverted the subject making small talks.
Tang Yin's gaze drifted to Xiao Wu, her head still bowed. He leaned in, voice gentle.
"Xiao Wu… it's just a temporary parting. Once I'm strong enough, I'll come find you. Or at least help you cultivate to Soul Emperor level—at least no one will find your identity by then"
Xiao Wu gave a soft nod. "Mhm."
Midnight, Edge of the Star Dou Forest
Towering ancient trees loomed in the moonlight, casting eerie shadows. The air was thick with humidity—and tension.
Zhao Wuji raised his hand to halt the group. "We've arrived," he announced. "We'll camp here on the outskirts tonight. We head deeper tomorrow."
The students scattered to gather wood, setting up tents and organizing watch duty. After a quick meal of dry rations, they fell into a cautious sleep, readying themselves for what lay ahead.
Next Morning
The golden dawn broke through the misty canopy, casting warm light across the tall trees. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves as the forest slowly came to life.
Zhao Wuji barked orders. "Dai Mubai, you lead. The rest, follow his trail."
Tang Yin fell into step behind him, watching as the energized tiger efficiently cleared a path through the thick Bush.
"Heh… This perverted tiger is surprisingly good at mowing grass," Tang Yin chuckled to himself.
As they walked, Tang Yin activated his telepathic sense, scanning for nearby soul beasts—and keeping an eye out for Er Ming.
Hours passed without finding a suitable target—until afternoon, when Tang Yin's senses tingled. A Phoenix-Tailed Crest Serpent was resting nearby. After estimating its age, Tang Yin subtly influenced Dai Mubai's subconscious to guide the group toward it.
(Tang Yin blinked in surprise—this was the exact same soul beast Oscar had obtained in the novel. Coincidence? Or fate?)
Soon they arrived at a mossy clearing, thick with the scent of damp foliage. The serpent lay coiled beneath a fallen tree, its vibrant red crest faintly pulsing with heat.
Tang Yin raised a hand, voice low but firm. "Hold up. Zhu Zhuqing, scout the perimeter."
Zhao Wuji and Dai Mubai exchanged confused glances. Their eyes flicked toward Tang Yin, silently asking, Since when does he give orders?
Zhu Zhuqing said nothing. She blurred into the treetops like a shadow fading into twilight.
Moments later, she reappeared, as silently as she had left. "Only one soul beast in the vicinity."
Tang Yin grinned and clapped Oscar on the shoulder. "Haha! You're in luck, my friend. This phoenix tail crest serpent is perfect for your third soul ring"
Oscar beamed, but his joy was short-lived—Zhao Wuji smacked him on the head. "Quiet! Don't celebrate before we've even fought."
With efficient move, the group slipped into formation. Zhao Wuji gave a curt nod. "Good. Oscar, this one's yours—but let's bring it first."
Everyone took their positions.
Zhao Wuji stepped forward with a thunderous boom. "Alright, let's go!" His Vigorous Vajra Bear martial soul flared to life, soul rings rising around him—two yellow, two purple, three black—seven soul rings in total.
The serpent's slit-pupiled eyes snapped open, instantly sensing the threat. With a shriek, it sprang from its resting place, its serpentine body lashing like a whip.
Tang yin made the first move.
"Blue Silver king—Blood devour!"