Chapter 22: The Big Shot

After a year, he had reached the level of a Two-Orifice Heart.

Bone Douluo watched Ning Rongrong and Sword Douluo busily engaged, while he himself had little to do and felt somewhat embarrassed. So he called Jun Han over for guidance, only to find that Jun Han was even more familiar with the characteristics of martial souls than himself. Moreover, Jun Han possessed exceptional talent; he learned everything immediately, leaving no room for Bone Douluo to correct him. This left Bone Douluo truly idle.

He wanted to continue instructing him, but Jun Han’s learning ability surpassed his own; a few pointers were enough for Jun Han to grasp the concepts. Bone Douluo simply let him roam freely and told him not to bother him unless necessary.

Driven by curiosity about soul-guided devices, Jun Han chose to study them. Bone Douluo was trustworthy, and Ning Xi personally guided him step by step, producing numerous blueprints, designs, and materials. Thus, a batch of soul masters became soul tutors.

Yet cultivation could not be neglected; only those struggling to break through could devote themselves fully. Tie Yan, who previously polished materials for Ning Xi, was one such individual, immersing himself wholeheartedly in learning to make soul-guided devices.

Without Bone Douluo’s guidance, Jun Han naturally stayed by Ning Xi’s side, cultivating and reading. Jun Han loved reading and remembered every word Ning Xi said. After going through various books, he often developed his own insights.

While she practiced swordsmanship, he would meditate or read—constantly reading. He was truly obsessive, tirelessly absorbing countless books. With Ning Xi’s permission, he conducted many experiments, drawing analogies and offering suggestions on soul-guided devices, herbs, and more.

After witnessing another side of Ning Xi, their relationship had subtly improved.

Jun Han had been taken by Bone Douluo to successfully acquire his first soul ring. After consuming whale glue, his first soul ring was also a thousand-year soul ring. Seeing this achievement, Ning Xi decided to teach him about soul spirits; perhaps one day he might become a spirit messenger.

Thus, they spent the year together, and now Jun Han was seven years old.

After the New Year, several red lanterns still hung in the sect, creating a lively atmosphere. However, today, a familiar yet unfamiliar face arrived.

In the great hall, Ning Fengzhi sat side by side with Sword Bone Douluo, symbolizing the sect’s honor and strength.

Ning Fengzhi wore splendid sect leader robes, his countenance gentle and refined, eyes gleaming with wisdom. He lightly caressed the teacup in his hand, exuding calm and composure.

Sword Douluo and Bone Douluo sat on either side of him. Sword Douluo stood tall and upright like a pine, emanating an indomitable sword spirit. Bone Douluo appeared slender, but his eyes were sharp as an eagle’s, seeming to perceive all in the world.

The atmosphere in the hall was solemn and dignified, yet warm and harmonious.

At the center of the hall stood a handsome man with jade-like skin and a faintly melancholic aura in his brows and eyes. He wore luxurious prince’s attire embroidered with golden threads that shimmered in the sunlight, reflecting his noble status. His demeanor was composed and elegant, leaving a lasting impression.

“Teacher, your student Xue Qinghe has come to pay a visit. Many years have passed, but your demeanor remains unchanged; your student feels truly comforted,” he said with a slight bow, enunciating clearly, his tone composed and unhurried, noble yet approachable.

Ning Fengzhi smiled gently upon seeing Xue Qinghe.

“Qinghe, no need for formalities. Please, have a seat. It’s rare for you to come here. I’ve heard you have performed exceptionally well in the Heavenly Dou Empire’s imperial palace. Your teacher is very proud of you.”

Xue Qinghe smiled and gracefully took a seat.

“Teacher, you flatter me. I’ve only done my best. Actually, I came this time to discuss the future situation with you. The soul master world is ever-changing, with various factions rising and falling. What is your view on this?” Xue Qinghe smiled as he posed his question.

Behind him stood several mysterious figures by his side.

Recently, he had heard that the Seven Treasures Glazed Sect seemed to be undertaking certain activities, and Ning Fengzhi’s eldest daughter, Ning Xi, had awakened the Seven Killing Sword and taken Sword Grandpa as her master. But it was understandable; withholding such information was a form of protection for Ning Xi.

When Ning Xi apprenticed under Ning Fengzhi, he had sensed that she was more mature and sensible than her peers. Now, awakening the Seven Killing Sword seemed only natural.

Xue Qinghe smiled while discussing the future situation. Ning Fengzhi furrowed his brow, pondered for a moment, then slowly spoke:

“The future situation is indeed unpredictable; the ever-changing tides of the soul master world often catch people off guard. However, in my opinion, no matter how the situation shifts, strength remains the fundamental guarantee.”

He paused before continuing, “Today, various factions rise and fall; emerging powers constantly appear, while established ones seek breakthroughs and transformation. As one of the top three sects, the Seven Treasures Glazed Sect cannot afford complacency. We must remain vigilant and continuously improve our strength to face any challenges or crises.”

Xue Qinghe sipped his tea and nodded, appreciating his teacher’s insight. “What you say is most true. Thank you for your guidance; I understand.”

Lowering his gaze slightly, strands of hair fell over his eyes, concealing the depth of his expression.

Suddenly, he looked up gently and said, “By the way, Teacher, I heard that Sister Xi and Sister Rongrong have both awakened their martial souls. Especially Sister Xi, who possesses one of the top-tier weapon martial souls, the Seven Killing Sword, and has even taken Sword Grandpa as her master. Truly a cause for celebration.”

“I have brought some gifts. Shall we call Sister Xi and Sister Rongrong to see if they like them?”

Ning Fengzhi was somewhat surprised but smiled, “Qinghe, that’s very thoughtful of you. In that case, go call Xi and Rongrong.”

He then turned to a nearby attendant and instructed him to summon Ning Xi and Ning Rongrong.

At this moment, Ning Xi had just finished her morning sword technique practice, while Ning Rongrong and Jun Han were meditating nearby.

Just as he prepared to call them, an attendant hurried over.

With respect, the attendant bowed, “Young Madam, the sect leader requests you to bring the second young lady to the great hall. Also, Young Master Jun Han.”

Ning Xi nodded, “I understand. You may leave now.”

The attendant acknowledged and left.

Jun Han rose from the ground, looking at Ning Xi, and asked, “Is something the matter?”

Ning Xi shook her head, walked over to Ning Rongrong, and gently patted her. “Rongrong.”

Ning Rongrong slowly opened her eyes, stood up, and stretched. “Let’s go.”

“I don’t know why Father wants us there. That place is no fun. It’s more enjoyable to be with you, Sister,” Rongrong complained as they walked, sneaking a rub against Ning Xi.

Ning Xi smiled helplessly. “Alright, it’s probably because some important person has arrived.”