"Grandpa, what's that on your belt?"
At that moment, Lin Feng's eyes lit up as he pointed at the pouch strapped to Dugu Bo's waist.
"You brat—don't you dare eye my Hundred Treasures Pouch!"
Dugu Bo reflexively clutched it tightly.
"Hahaha!"
"Oh? So the treasure the Dragon-Seeking Compass was pointing to… was Grandpa's pouch all along?"
Dugu Yan giggled playfully and reached out as if to snatch it.
"Hey, Yan'er!"
"You don't need this right now. Let me hold onto it for you."
Dugu Bo quickly stopped her with a wave of his hand.
"Hmph! Grandpa, you're so stingy!"
"You won't even let me take a peek."
Dugu Yan crossed her arms, pretending to be angry.
"Grandpa, the compass isn't pointing to the pouch itself—it's the things inside."
Lin Feng replied calmly and confidently.
"What could be inside?"
"I just keep a few common herbs in there."
Dugu Bo waved dismissively and displayed the contents in midair with a casual flick of his fingers.
"He's right, Lin Feng. Grandpa usually keeps medicinal herbs in that pouch."
"When I got scrapes or bruises as a kid, he'd treat me with herbs from there."
Dugu Yan added, clearly puzzled.
But Lin Feng simply smiled and pulled out the Dragon-Seeking Compass again.
Clink clink clink… clink clink clink…
"There—these three!"
The compass vibrated and pointed at three herbs among the scattered pile.
Lin Feng's eyes widened in surprise.
Thanks to his early study of medicinal plants—and the rare medical books his father once traded from a fallen clan—he had an exceptional understanding of the effects of immortal herbs.
And these three weren't even among the ones Tang San later obtained.
So that meant… Dugu Bo had already collected some rare herbs well before Tang San ever came here.
"Eh? What's special about these three?"
Dugu Yan asked curiously.
She hadn't noticed that, beside her, Dugu Bo's eyes were beginning to gleam at Lin Feng's words.
"This deep purple one is called the Five Poison Immortal Herb. It condenses soul power and absorbs toxins."
"When paired with the right herbs, it can produce incredible effects."
"The other two—one is the Dragon Tendon Flower, and the other is the Crimson Blaze Yang Essence."
"All three are top-tier immortal herbs."
"In the hands of the right soul masters, they could quite literally change their fate."
Lin Feng beamed as he earnestly explained to the grandfather and granddaughter duo.
In truth, he was the one most compatible with the Crimson Blaze Yang Essence.
"Well, well, Grandpa—so you've been hiding such good stuff from me?"
"You even never said a word!"
Dugu Yan pouted in mock anger.
After all, her Martial Soul had evolved thanks to the 'herbs' Lin Feng had given her. She believed him completely.
But Dugu Bo, hearing Lin Feng's words, was already wide-eyed.
"Lin Feng… you recognize these herbs?"
he asked in astonishment.
"Of course! I've studied immortal herbs extensively. These are definitely among them."
Lin Feng said proudly.
He already had a guess about what the compass had led him to.
Not just the three herbs—but one of the most sacred locations on the entire continent: the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well.
"Immortal herbs! So that's what they're called!"
"I knew it! They grew right at the center—I just knew they were extraordinary."
"Come! You two, follow me!"
Dugu Bo's eyes lit up with excitement. Grabbing them both, he leapt into the air—
Whoosh whoosh whoosh!
The three of them soared across the sky. Lin Feng and Dugu Yan briefly blacked out from the speed.
Moments later, they passed over a dense forest and descended into a hidden valley.
"What is this place?"
Lin Feng asked, blinking in awe.
Mist drifted between the cliffs, and a steaming spring lay below. The water was split into two distinct pools—one milky white, the other bright crimson—forming a perfect Yin-Yang symbol.
The colors did not mix, each side perfectly still within its boundary.
All around were strange, vividly colored herbs growing in abundance.
"This is… this is the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well?!"
Lin Feng exclaimed, eyes wide.
He'd finally arrived!
Hahaha!
As expected—this was his destiny.
Dragon-Seeking Compass, Child of Destiny—I love you both!
"You really do know your stuff, don't you?"
"Can you recognize these herbs around us?"
Dugu Bo asked eagerly.
Lin Feng took a careful look and nodded.
"Yes. There are quite a few premium immortal herbs growing here."
He was clearly elated.
"Hahahaha! Good lad!"
Dugu Bo burst into hearty laughter.
He had always suspected these herbs were rare, but he had never known their exact uses. Finally, with Lin Feng around, he had someone to explain it all.
He'd actually considered bringing Lin Feng here earlier, especially after seeing Yan'er's Martial Soul evolution—but he'd held off, waiting to see if the boy was trustworthy.
"Well then, tell me—what are all these?"
Dugu Bo asked impatiently.
Dugu Yan stared at Lin Feng, eyes full of admiration.
Her man really seemed to know everything.
Lin Feng stepped toward a large pink flower and inhaled lightly.
Its fragrance was faint and sweet, refreshing to the soul.
"This one is called the Aromatic Silk Beauty Immortal Herb."
"It's the nemesis of all poisons. Its scent neutralizes toxins—but it can't remove poison that's already been absorbed."
"The pink aura around the flower shows its range of effect."
Then he turned toward a white herb growing near the icy side of the spring.
It had an eight-pronged top and, unlike the other herb, gave off no scent.
"This is the Octagonal Mysterious Ice Grass. It can numb the nervous system and chill the body to the bone."
"It's a poisonous herb—and its toxicity might even surpass your own, Senior Dugu."
…
"Hahahaha! I knew it! These are all priceless treasures!"
Dugu Bo, unable to contain himself, strode toward a peony-shaped white flower, reaching out to pluck it.
"Grandpa—stop!"
"That's the Yearning Heartbroken Red. Pluck it carelessly and you'll die instantly!"
Dugu Bo froze in place, hand trembling.
"Then tell me how to harvest it safely."
His tone was practically a command.
"Ahem. Senior Dugu, the way you're asking makes things a little difficult."
Lin Feng coughed and turned his head casually.
Let's not beat around the bush—he wanted compensation.
Dugu Bo's face darkened instantly.
"You brat! Just now you were calling me Grandpa—now I ask one thing and suddenly I'm 'Senior Dugu'?"
"Are you asking for a beating?!"
"Grandpa, don't hit him!"
Dugu Yan rushed forward and threw her arms around Lin Feng protectively, glaring at her grandfather.
"Yan'er, you… ugh!"
"Fine, Lin Feng. What do you want?"
"I'll give you one immortal herb. Happy now?"
Dugu Bo sighed, retracting his soul power. He looked visibly annoyed.
Him—a dignified Titled Douluo—getting strong-armed by a junior? Unbelievable.
"Grandpa, come now!"
"Isn't all this just part of my future wife's dowry?"
"How could I possibly take something that belongs to my Yan'er?"
"Right, wifey?"
Lin Feng puffed out his chest and pulled Dugu Yan closer.
"Exactly! Grandpa, you're so stingy!"
"You don't love me anymore!"
Dugu Yan wiped fake tears, playing along with a dramatic pout."Hey! Lin Feng, you rascal!"
"Alright, alright!"
"Whatever you've got your eye on, just take it, okay?!"
"But only on the condition that you first find a suitable immortal herb for Yan'er."
Dugu Bo's beard curled with frustration, but looking at how Dugu Yan kept defending Lin Feng, he could only relent with a sigh of helplessness.
This precious granddaughter of his was already siding with her man before even getting married.
"Grandpa, you're the best! Long live Grandpa!"
"Grandpa loves Yan'er the most!"
Dugu Yan leapt joyfully into the air.
Dugu Bo gave her a small smile but said nothing more.
Then, Lin Feng took Dugu Yan's hand and led her to an immortal herb.
"What's this one?"
Dugu Bo asked, visibly excited.
The herb was a pristine white flower, as flawless as a lotus in full bloom—elegant, pure, and undoubtedly valuable.
"It's beautiful! What kind of flower is this?"
Dugu Yan bent closer, intrigued.
"This is the Daffodil Jade Flesh Bone, known for its effects in enhancing beauty and nourishing one's body."
Lin Feng replied casually.
"What happens if Yan'er takes it?"
Dugu Bo frowned, puzzled.
"I never said this one was for her."
"Old man, help me pick it—I'm taking this one with me."
Lin Feng declared confidently.
"Old man?"
"…What?"
"Oh, uh…"
"'Old man' is an honorable title for elders back in my hometown."
Lin Feng answered with a totally straight face.
"Hmph! So now I'm just your errand boy, huh?"
Despite his grumbling, Dugu Bo still obediently picked the herb and stored it properly for Lin Feng.
Soon after, the three of them moved to other herbs.
"How about this one for Yan'er?"
"Nope."
"This one?"
"Still no."
…
Lin Feng kept smiling as he rejected one herb after another, directing Dugu Yan toward other plants instead.
The Miraculous Chrysanthemum and the Black Jade Divine Bamboo were more suited for Shi Mo and Shi Mo'er.
Their Martial Souls specialized in defense and could transform into throwable shields, making one herb that boosts defense and one that boosts attack perfect for them.
"Yan'er, you can harvest everything in that section."
Lin Feng's eyes lit up in excitement.
Opportunities to gather like this didn't come often.
"Got it!"
Dugu Yan grabbed Lin Feng's soul tool belt and skipped over to start collecting.
"This one's good—I can sell it to the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan later."
"Ooh, and this one—perfect for Father. Maybe it'll help him break through to Titled Douluo."
"This one's mid-tier… but whatever, throw it in!"
"…"
Lin Feng muttered to himself while directing Yan'er like a foreman on a treasure hunt.
Before long, several storage belts were filled to the brim with immortal herbs.
Dugu Bo watched, face increasingly gloomy, as his once-lush herb garden turned patchy and bare.
"Lin Feng… have you found one that's actually suitable for Yan'er yet?"
His tone was practically a growl.
"Not yet, Grandpa."
At that, Lin Feng suddenly paused mid-action, as if a thought struck him.
"Wait… Grandpa, didn't you still have three more herbs in your Hundred Treasures Pouch?"
"You brat, don't push it!"
"You're trying to rob me blind now?!"
Dugu Bo looked ready to explode.
"I just remembered that one of them might be perfect for Yan'er."
"Really?"
Dugu Bo didn't believe a word of it.
"Really."
Lin Feng nodded firmly.
"Grandpa, come on—just show it to him!"
"Lin Feng's only doing it for my sake!"
Dugu Yan quickly jumped in, tugging on her grandfather's sleeve with a sweet voice.
"Fine, fine. I give up."
Dugu Bo reluctantly opened his pouch and revealed the three herbs.
"The one in the middle—Five Poison Immortal Herb."
Lin Feng's eyes sparkled as soon as he saw it.
That was definitely the one.
"Grandpa Dugu, based on my knowledge…"
"If we pair this herb with the Nine Treasure Purple Zoysia we picked earlier and have Yan'er consume them together…"
"She'll be able to form a Poison Core within her body."
"The Purple Zoysia strengthens her foundation, while the Five Poison Immortal Herb enhances toxin control."
"This will allow Yan'er to freely control both soul power and poison in the future."
Lin Feng's voice grew more animated with each word, thrilled by the discovery.
Dugu Bo gave him an approving nod. The kid might be shameless, but he really knew his stuff.
Dugu Yan's face glowed with joy. Yet again, Lin Feng had helped her become stronger.
"And these two herbs next to it?"
Lin Feng suddenly paused, as if discovering something new.
"What is it?"
Dugu Bo asked, frowning.
"Grandpa Dugu… you've been struggling with the poison inside your body for years, haven't you?"
"That's right—how do you know?"
Dugu Bo narrowed his eyes in suspicion.
"Back when Yan'er ate that immortal herb to evolve her Martial Soul, I noticed toxic traces in her body."
"Since you both cultivate the same Martial Soul, I figured you'd have the same issue."
"This herb on your right, the Dragon Tendon Flower, can purify your marrow and increase your physical potential."
"And it can flush the poison out of your body."
Lin Feng said it with utmost confidence.
"If what you say is true…"
"If this really clears the poison in my body…"
"Then not only will I personally entrust Yan'er's future to you…"
"You can take anything you want from this valley, no questions asked!"
Dugu Bo was visibly shaking with excitement.
After all these years… to think that there was finally hope of being free from his internal poison!
Dugu Yan also rushed forward in tears, clinging tightly to her grandfather.
"Don't cry, Yan'er!"
"Didn't your future husband say he has a way?"
Dugu Bo stroked her hair lovingly.
"Lin Feng, you have to save my grandfather!"
Dugu Yan turned to him, voice trembling with emotion.
"Don't worry, Yan'er."
"I've got this."
"Oh, and one more thing, old man—if I cure your poison…"
"That Crimson Blaze Yang Essence herb to your left? That's mine."
Lin Feng grinned.
What a coincidence—those three herbs he'd found earlier turned out to be perfect for the three of them.
If Dugu Bo hadn't become a Titled Douluo, his Martial Soul would have poisoned him from the inside out.
But now, with the poison cleared, that fate could be completely avoided.
As for the Crimson Blaze Yang Essence, it didn't just refine fire-type Martial Souls—it could evolve them into Ultimate Fire. Perfect for Lin Feng.
But all that could wait—Yan'er was still crying.
Time to handle the poison first.
—
Lin Feng had Dugu Yan wait aside.
He received the Dragon Tendon Flower from Dugu Bo and sat facing him cross-legged.
He began channeling his soul power, mixing in the ground paste of a Millennium Ice Silk Worm, and carefully applied the solution to Dugu Bo's body.
The moment the medicine touched skin, thick green toxic mist began to pour from Dugu Bo's pores.
Lin Feng quickly placed the Aromatic Silk Beauty Immortal Herb in front of him to shield against the poisonous vapor.
But his soul power never stopped circulating—just using herbs wouldn't be enough. It needed to be combined with soul power for full detoxification.
Meanwhile, Dugu Yan sat cross-legged behind them, slowly absorbing the poisonous mist.
This was the refined poison of the Jade Phosphor Serpent Emperor—pure nourishment for her at this stage.
An hour passed.
Dugu Bo slowly opened his eyes, stood, and put on his clothes.
His expression was one of utter elation.
He could feel it clearly—there was no poison left in his body.
And not just that—his soul power had broken through to Rank 92!
"Lin Feng, Yan'er—Grandpa did it!"
Dugu Bo shouted in joy.
Dugu Yan jumped up and threw her arms around both of them with a radiant smile."Grandpa, that's wonderful!"
Dugu Yan finally let go of her worry and cried tears of joy as she threw her arms around her grandfather.
Lin Feng, meanwhile, wasn't used to this level of enthusiasm—he felt a bit awkward.
He glanced at Dugu Bo and pulled up his trait panel.
[Dugu Bo]
[Gender: Male]
[Age: 71]
[Innate Soul Power: Rank 9]
[Martial Soul: Jade Phosphor Serpent Emperor]
[Soul Power: Rank 92]
[Traits: [Keeps Promises (White)], [Old Poison Master (Green)], [Outstanding Talent (Purple)], [Blessed by a Benefactor (Purple)]
[Keeps Promises (White)]: You are the kind of person who always honors your word and repays kindness.
No wonder his attitude toward Lin Feng had changed so drastically—it made sense now.
[Old Poison Master (Green)]: You are highly skilled in poison and will achieve significant mastery in it.
[Blessed by a Benefactor (Purple)]: You are fated to encounter someone who will help you through your most difficult moments.
So that "Benefactor" was probably him, huh?
This counted as a purple-tier trait? It sounded like a one-time-use effect.
Now that they had met, wasn't that trait basically useless?
Lin Feng made up his mind—it needed to be replaced.
"System, refresh Dugu Bo's traits for me."
Lin Feng waved his hand.
Traits like [Keeps Promises] and [Old Poison Master] were core to Dugu Bo's character. Replacing them might do more harm than good.
But the others were fair game.
[Ding! Traits refreshed.]
The panel updated with twelve new options. Lin Feng scrolled past the first six and quickly spotted one.
[Innate Full Soul Power(Purple)]
"Replace it!"
Innate Full Soul Power + immortal herbs? Top-tier combination.
This old man must be piggybacking off his Child of Destiny trait.
Guess I'll reluctantly accept a few more herbs from you, Lin Feng thought with a gentle "generous" smile.
Now for the last purple trait.
[Ding! Please choose one from the following three traits:]
[Laughing Madman Quartet (Purple) – Your wild, boisterous laughter boosts your physical stats. The louder and more dramatic, the greater the effect.]
[Grandfather Status (Purple) – For each grandchild you have, your soul ring age increases by 1,000 years (can be applied to any ring).]
[Innate +2 (Purple) – Your soul power is permanently increased by 2 levels.]
Yikes—[Laughing Madman Quartet]? That immediately reminded him of four very familiar meme faces.
Sunny skies. The rain's stopped. The old man feels like he's young again?
Just picturing this ninety-something grandpa laughing wildly with hands on hips made Lin Feng shudder.
Definitely not choosing that one.
Grandfather Status? What a trash perk.
"Choose [Innate +2]."
Lin Feng made his pick. He'd seen this one before. There was also a golden version called [Innate +3].
But that was for much later—right now, this was more than enough.
After the swap—
Dugu Bo was still celebrating with Yan'er when he suddenly froze in surprise.
"Oh no… I think I'm about to break through again."
A surge of soul power rippled outward, and Dugu Bo's level inexplicably jumped to Rank 94.
He was dumbfounded.
"Grandpa?"
"It's fine," Lin Feng said before Yan'er could ask. "Totally normal. Probably just some leftover medicinal effects kicking in all at once."
"Is that so?"
Dugu Bo was skeptical, but… it did sound plausible.
"In any case, Lin Feng—this time you helped me purge my body of poison."
"You're now officially my grandson-in-law."
"I owe you another favor."
He gave Lin Feng a satisfied nod.
"Ahem, Old Man… don't forget that Crimson Blaze Yang Essence you promised me."
Lin Feng coughed, gently reminding him.
"You little brat! Take it."
Dugu Bo handed over the precious herb, which Lin Feng promptly stored in his belt.
"Lin Feng, about that Poison Core you mentioned earlier for Yan'er—are you sure it'll work?"
Dugu Bo sounded nervous.
"Grandpa, come on now."
"If Lin Feng could purge your decades-old poison…"
"Why wouldn't he be able to help me too?"
Dugu Yan looked at Lin Feng with eyes full of gratitude and trust.
"It'll work."
Lin Feng nodded with full confidence.
He soon found a natural hot spring not far off.
He began tossing in various toxic herbs he'd collected, turning the waters into a medicinal bath.
"What are you doing?" Dugu Bo asked.
"If Yan'er wants to successfully condense a Poison Core in her body…"
"Just relying on the toxins from the two immortal herbs won't be enough."
"She needs to absorb a large quantity of poison, or the core might not form properly. Worse, she could be consumed by the conflicting toxins."
"Old man, go fetch more poisons."
As he stirred the toxic brew, Lin Feng issued instructions without looking up.
"So that's how it is…"
"Lin Feng, here—these are all my lifetime's poisons and resources."
"Take whatever you need."
Without hesitation, Dugu Bo handed Lin Feng a soul tool stored deep in the Ice and Fire Yin-Yang Well.
Lin Feng opened it and gawked.
There were hundreds of poisons, rare herbs, and even a few additional immortal-grade plants.
If he hadn't already looted so much earlier, he might've taken it all without shame.
"No need for that much."
"Immortal herbs can only be used one at a time, unless their properties complement each other."
He selected a few poisonous and soul power-enhancing herbs and threw them into the spring.
A short while later—
"Yan'er, strip and get in."
"Old man, you stay back. I'll call when I need you."
Lin Feng wiped his brow and addressed them both.
"Hmph! Brat…"
Dugu Bo grumbled, but he obediently went off to meditate.
"Okay!"
Dugu Yan removed her clothes and stepped into the bath, her skin glowing faintly with radiant luster.
Though it wasn't her first time being seen by Lin Feng, doing this out in the wilderness still made her blush.
Lin Feng handed her the Five Poison Immortal Herb and Nine Treasure Purple Zoysia to consume.
"Yan'er, steady your breathing. Focus on your dantian."
"Draw the surrounding poison into your body. Channel your soul power to guide the toxins to your core."
He spoke gently and patiently.
A moment later, the two herbs took effect.
Dugu Yan broke out in a cold sweat, her face twisted in pain.
She felt as if her soul power was being drained into her dantian—and with it, her very life.
The poison from the Five Poison Immortal Herb was beginning to overwhelm her.
If she couldn't endure it, this process could kill her."Ah—!"
Dugu Yan let out a pained cry, unable to suppress it any longer.
"What's going on, Lin Feng?!"
Dugu Bo, alarmed by Yan'er's anguished voice, resisted the urge to look back and instead anxiously asked.
"She's fine. She's just absorbing the toxins."
Lin Feng replied calmly while channeling his soul power into her through both hands.
"Old man, hurry up and help me out!"
"At the rate she's absorbing, I won't be able to sustain this with just my power."
He shouted toward Dugu Bo, who was still standing with his back turned, stiff with tension.
"Yan'er, Grandpa's here!"
Before Lin Feng even finished speaking, Dugu Bo was already at the spring in a flash, both hands pressing into the ground by the pool as he poured soul power in.
Dugu Yan lay submerged just beneath the surface of the hot spring, with only her face above water. Her brows were tightly furrowed in pain.
Seconds ticked into minutes. Hours passed in silence.
Finally, after what felt like ages, her tense expression began to ease.
Meanwhile, back at the Heaven Dou Academy's training grounds.
A full day had gone by.
"Teacher Qin, how come Lin Feng and Dugu Yan aren't here today?"
Yu Tianheng glanced around the training area but saw no sign of the two. He asked curiously.
"They requested leave. No need to worry," Qin Ming answered, having sensed Dugu Bo's presence the previous day. He found an excuse to brush it off.
No doubt the Poison Douluo was off somewhere meeting his future grandson-in-law.
"I see, thank you, Teacher."
Yu Tianheng turned and smiled, then sat down to meditate and refine his soul power.
This was a gift from the heavens.
While they were out on leave, he was training.
While they were eating, he would be training.
While they slept, he would still be training.
And when he'd grown strong enough—Lin Feng, what would you have left to fight me with?
This kind of hard work would make him the next Thunder Douluo!
Today's training? Double the intensity!
Just thinking about his own diligence filled Yu Tianheng with determination.
He walked with the wind.
But suddenly, he heard a commotion from a nearby corner of the training area.
"Tch, that Lin Feng's just coasting on talent."
"First day at the academy and already skipping practice?"
"What does he take the Preparatory Team for?"
Several of the cannon-fodder team members were slacking off on the equipment, griping loudly.
"Hmph! A bunch of weaklings like you have no right to talk."
Yu Tianheng snorted disdainfully, eyes filled with contempt.
"What did you just say, Yu Tianheng?!"
"Who are you calling weaklings?! Say it again!"
A few of the students rolled up their sleeves, ready to jump him.
"Enough! Get back to training."
Xue Qinghe coughed lightly and gave them a stern look. His noble pressure instantly cowed the group.
"Tch, Yu Tianheng, you're lucky His Highness is here today. Otherwise, we'd have taught you a lesson."
"Watch your mouth next time."
Grumbling, the group backed off with one last glare.
Yu Tianheng ignored them and resumed his meditation.
He knew that if he wanted to catch up to Lin Feng, hard work was his only option.
Back at the Ice and Fire Yin-Yang Well.
"Jade Phosphor Serpent Emperor!"
Dugu Bo summoned his martial soul and continued pouring soul power into Yan'er.
Dugu Yan's breathing grew steadier, and the toxin core in her dantian was finally beginning to take shape.
"Old man, increase your output. The poison core is forming—this is the critical moment!"
Another night passed.
Dawn's first light spilled across the valley, casting golden hues on their tired faces.
"It's almost done!"
"Just a little more, old man!"
Lin Feng collapsed onto the ground, completely drained.
"Lin Feng, how much more toxin can Yan'er's poison core handle?"
Dugu Bo's face was tight with concern.
"Now that her core has formed, she should be able to absorb about thirty percent of your soul power's poison."
With Lin Feng's confirmation, Dugu Bo's gaze sharpened.
"Seventh Soul Skill: Martial Soul Avatar!"
Dugu Bo transformed into the massive Jade Phosphor Serpent Emperor and unleashed a torrent of virulent poison mist.
As Dugu Yan circulated her poison core, the mist whirled like a vortex and was absorbed entirely into her body.
A quarter of an hour later—
Dugu Yan slowly opened her eyes and stood.
"Lin Feng, Grandpa—I did it."
"Thank you… both of you."
Looking at the exhausted Lin Feng and her weary grandfather, her eyes welled with emotion.
"What are you thanking us for?!"
Lin Feng leapt up and winked at her meaningfully.
Yesterday you broke your promise. You better make it up to me tonight.
"All family here. No need for thanks."
"How are you feeling now?" Dugu Bo asked, concern still etched on his tired face.
"I'm at Rank 40 now. The poison in my body has gathered in my dantian."
"I can feel how much more fluid and precise my control over toxins and soul power has become."
Dugu Yan wiped her tears and smiled brightly.
"Lin Feng, this time I finally beat you in soul power level!"
Feeling rejuvenated, she couldn't help but flaunt her success.
"Oh? You think so, Yan'er?"
Lin Feng smiled faintly and casually released his true soul power.
With all the immortal herbs, poisons, and Dugu Bo's soul power aiding her, she had jumped nine levels.
But she was still too naïve.
"Rank 40?!"
Dugu Yan and Dugu Bo exclaimed in unison.
"Ugh! Grandpa, he's bullying me!"
"After I finished the herbs, we were just even! And now he's ahead again!"
Dugu Yan hugged Dugu Bo, sulking.
"Hahaha! Then once I absorb the Crimson Blaze Yang Essence, the gap will be even wider!"
Lin Feng teased, his eyes glinting playfully.
"Grandpa, look at him!"
"Lin Feng's being mean!"
Dugu Bo watched the two banter and felt a warm pride in his heart.
If there ever came a day he was no longer around, having Lin Feng by Yan'er's side would put him at ease.
As long as he still had some strength left in his old bones, he'd do everything he could to help these two grow stronger.
"Haha! Alright, you two."
"Lin Feng, once you're done absorbing the immortal herb, I'll take you both to Sunset Forest to hunt your fourth soul ring."
Dugu Bo said kindly.
At the same time, Dugu Yan shot Lin Feng a glare full of meaning.
Tonight, if you're not lying flat and begging for mercy, don't even think about getting out of bed.
Lin Feng caught the look and quickly averted his gaze.
"This little ancestor's stamina is scary… can't mess with her."
He then sat down cross-legged and began to absorb the Crimson Blaze Yang Essence.
Due to the natural compatibility with his martial soul, the process went extraordinarily smoothly.
Time passed.
The herb completely fused with his body.
"Martial Soul Possession: Emperor Flame Nine-Headed Dragon!"
Lin Feng stood and summoned his martial soul, eyes serious.
After absorbing the Crimson Blaze Yang Essence, the Emperor Flame Nine-Headed Dragon had evolved—its fire attribute now a true Ultimate Fire.The massive nine-headed shadow of the Emperor Flame Nine-Headed Dragon stretched across the sky, releasing a fearsome pressure of Ultimate Fire.
The surrounding temperature rose to terrifying levels, making it unbearable to approach.
More importantly, Lin Feng's soul power had significantly increased—if measured by the standards of a Soul Elder, he'd gained at least seven to eight levels. But since he was now approaching the Soul Ancestor stage, the actual gain was around five to six levels.
Unable to withstand the searing heat, Dugu Yan instinctively stepped back and released her own soul power to resist the incoming waves of fire.
Even Dugu Bo was taken aback.
Though he himself possessed a top-tier martial soul, he could still feel a trace of divine dragon suppression emanating from Lin Feng.
Not all top-tier martial souls were Ultimate Martial Souls, but every Ultimate Martial Soul was above most so-called top-tier ones.
"Lin Feng, put away your martial soul already!"
"It's too hot!" Dugu Yan shouted anxiously.
"Alright."
Lin Feng retracted his martial soul.
"I'll rest a moment. Then we'll head out to get the two of you your soul rings," Dugu Bo said with a satisfied smile.
He was now eager to see Lin Feng's true strength after absorbing the immortal herb.
"Yay, soul rings, soul rings!" Dugu Yan cheered, throwing her arms around Lin Feng.
"Muah~" Lin Feng, sensing Dugu Bo's gaze from behind, deliberately planted a kiss on Dugu Yan's cheek.
Her earlobes instantly turned crimson.
"Ugh…"
"young people these days have no shame at all…" Dugu Bo muttered, quickly turning away and covering his eyes.
---
That same day, behind Heaven Dou Academy…
Yu Tianheng was rigorously training on his own.
"Ha! Another day of closing the gap with Lin Feng," he exclaimed confidently after finishing a round of cultivation.
Suddenly, three figures appeared from the distance—it was the preparatory team's background trio.
"Yu Tianheng, you were acting pretty smug yesterday, weren't you?"
"Have you learned nothing about respecting your seniors?"
One of them scoffed, voice thick with disdain.
"Did I say anything wrong?"
"Gossiping behind people's backs—what kind of Soul Master are you supposed to be?"
Yu Tianheng stood up, replying with equal contempt.
"Yan Qing, he's talking about you, isn't he?" said the guy beside him, Baru, with a chuckle.
"What if I was?" Yan Qing sneered and raised a fist. "You looking for a beating?"
He lunged forward, but Baru quickly stepped in to hold him back.
"Heh…"
"Yan Qing, you're 16 years old and only at Rank 32 soul power. And you're trying to act tough in front of me?"
"Do you think you're Lin Feng or something? I could crush you with one hand."
Yu Tianheng snorted coldly, oozing disdain.
"Screw you!"
"First Soul Skill—Wind Blade!"
Unable to take the taunt, Yan Qing summoned his martial soul, turning the surrounding air into countless blades that flew at Yu Tianheng.
"First Soul Skill—Thunder Dragon Claw!"
In response, Yu Tianheng condensed lightning into a dragon claw and slashed upward.
The air roared, instantly shredding all the wind blades to pieces.
"You've got guts. You really dared to strike first?" Yu Tianheng raised a brow. "Who gave you that courage?"
"I'm a direct descendant of the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan!"
"Hmph! So what?" someone scoffed. "Everyone's got a background. My father is a renowned general of Heaven Dou Empire!"
Finally, the long-silent Ye Chen stepped forward.
"What use is your general of a father?" Yu Tianheng mocked. "He's not even a Titled Douluo, yet you dare show off?"
"How dare you insult my father!" Ye Chen roared.
"Second Soul Skill—Knight's Charge!"
Mounted on a soul-powered steed and armed with a longsword, he charged straight at Yu Tianheng.
"Hmph! A petty trick?"
"Second Soul Skill—Thunder Crash!"
Coils of thunder surrounding Yu Tianheng suddenly expanded into lightning bolts and shot at Ye Chen like arrows.
"First Soul Skill—Knight's Shield!"
Ye Chen quickly raised his sword to block the barrage.
Seeing Ye Chen reveal an opening during his defense, Yu Tianheng leapt into the air, soul power gathering in his palm, and struck Ye Chen in the abdomen.
The phantom horse vanished; Ye Chen staggered back, defeated.
Bang!
A sudden jolt surged through Yu Tianheng. His body brimmed with soul power.
"Hahaha!"
"I broke through Rank 30?!"
"You bunch of bugs, what can you do against me now?!"
Yu Tianheng's face lit up with joy, laughing triumphantly.
"He actually broke through during the fight?"
"Hmph. Guys, let's all attack together!" Ye Chen growled.
In sync, all three took to the air.
"Second Soul Skill—Knight's Charge!"
"Second Soul Skill—Tornado!"
"Second Soul Skill—Fury of Mount Tai!"
Three powerful attacks came at Yu Tianheng from different angles.
No matter how strong he was, one man couldn't fend off all three.
Even after unleashing Thunder Crash again, Yu Tianheng was overwhelmed and crashed hard to the ground.
"Tch!"
"No skill, just ganging up on me?"
"You didn't like Lin Feng before—why don't you go fight him, huh?"
Yu Tianheng spat out a mouthful of blood and growled.
"What's wrong with your head?"
"Or do you think we're the ones with a problem?"
"We don't have a grudge against him. Why would we pick a fight with him?" Yan Qing scoffed, looking down on Yu Tianheng before turning to leave.
Yet Ye Chen remained thoughtful.
Lin Feng's father, Lin Ye, was a strong contender for the future general's seat—a political rival to his own father.
Now that his father was aging, he might soon step down.
It was better to build ties with Lin Feng, not enmity.
After the three left, Yu Tianheng forced himself to his feet and got treated by a teacher.
Then, he immediately sought out Qin Ming.
"Teacher Qin, I broke through Rank 30."
"Can you take me to get my third soul ring?"
Eager to grow stronger, Yu Tianheng wasn't willing to waste even a second.
"Alright. I'll prepare. Let's head out this afternoon," Qin Ming replied with a smile.
He treated all students equally.
And seeing Yu Tianheng's recent effort had genuinely pleased him.
—
Sunset Forest.
Several figures moved stealthily through the dense woods.
Yu Tianheng followed closely behind Qin Ming.
He was determined to find a thousand-year dragon-type soul beast today.
The Soul Hunting Forest lacked suitable varieties, and Star Dou Great Forest was too far.
Thus, they came here.
Several Soul Kings led the way.
"Teacher Qin, what's with this group?"
"They're all just Soul Kings like you. If trouble shows up, can they even protect themselves?"
Yu Tianheng's tone was full of dissatisfaction.
"Shut it! These teachers agreed to come—be grateful!"
"You think we can just bring anyone stronger?" Qin Ming rebuked, clearly disappointed.
He hadn't expected Yu Tianheng to be so arrogant and entitled.
So that aloof and quiet persona before… was all an act?
Now that he'd lost to Lin Feng once, his true nature had finally come out.Just then, the ground began to shake violently.
"It's a beast tide—the Earth King's stampede!"
"Teacher Qin, Tianheng, retreat now!"
A flight-type teacher, Yan Que'er, took advantage of her aerial vantage point to spot the disturbance in the distance.
Dozens of Earth Kings were stampeding like a migrating herd—directly on a collision course with them.
"Quick! Head this way! Don't get caught in them!"
Qin Ming immediately took command, guiding everyone to change direction and evacuate at top speed.
"Tch, what'd I tell you?"
Yu Tianheng chuckled softly, curling his lip.
Qin Ming paused mid-step and gave him a disapproving glance—then summoned his martial soul Inferno Grey World and grabbed him with one hand before dashing away.
Meanwhile, deep within the dense forest—
A clearing lay in ruins.
Lin Feng and the others had already arrived in the Sunset Forest some time ago. With the help of the Dragon Seeking Compass, they quickly found a suitable soul beast for Dugu Yan.
And with Dugu Bo assisting, Dugu Yan was now seated cross-legged, absorbing a ten-thousand-year soul ring.
Lin Feng looked at her back, recalling how in the original story, Tang San had only advanced by one level after absorbing a ten-thousand-year ring at Rank 40. That alone proved how difficult it was to advance as a Soul Ancestor.
Yet now, after consuming immortal herbs—
Not only had his flames and physical constitution evolved, but his soul power had also increased by about five levels. Reaching Rank 46 after absorbing a soul ring wasn't unreasonable.
Thinking of this, Lin Feng smiled with satisfaction and nodded approvingly.
Dugu Bo watched the two from the side, sighing softly. But the corners of his mouth also curled into a rare smile.
In recent years, he had clearly sensed the undercurrents stirring throughout the continent.
If possible, he truly wished this moment could last forever.
Suddenly—
A rustling sound from the distance put Dugu Bo on alert.
Lin Feng tensed up as well and instantly assumed a combat stance, following Dugu Bo's gaze toward the forest.
Several vague silhouettes were moving between the trees.
"Feng'er, don't be so nervous."
"They're probably just soul masters here to hunt soul beasts."
Dugu Bo waved his hand, signaling him to stand down.
In the forest—
"Haah… finally—we finally lost those damn spiders…"
Yu Tianheng panted heavily, his breath ragged between words.
"Eh? Isn't that a clearing up ahead—with people?"
Yan Que'er looked toward Lin Feng's direction in surprise.
"I'll go check it out first. If everything's fine, you can come over."
Qin Ming composed himself, then slowly approached the three figures.
"Lin Feng? So it's you guys."
When he got close and saw their faces clearly, he hurried forward with a friendly greeting.
"Teacher Qin? What are you doing here?"
Lin Feng was equally surprised to run into them here.
"And that is…? Greetings, Senior Dugu."
Qin Ming was stunned to see Dugu Bo, then quickly gave a respectful nod.
"Hmph."
Dugu Bo stood with hands behind his back, nodding sternly without saying a word.
"Ah, Lin Feng, we're here in the Sunset Forest to hunt soul rings."
"What about you guys?"
Only after Dugu Bo acknowledged him did Qin Ming answer Lin Feng's earlier question.
"Same as you."
Lin Feng smiled and gestured for him to look at Dugu Yan seated behind.
Qin Ming turned his gaze to the meditating Dugu Yan—eyes widening as he realized she was absorbing a soul ring.
He was stunned.
"Wait, no way… is Dugu Yan getting a new soul ring?"
"Don't tell me—she has twin martial souls?"
"Wait a minute, is that… a ten-thousand-year soul beast?!"
Qin Ming wiped his eyes in disbelief, staring at the soul beast's corpse beside Dugu Yan.
He simply couldn't believe what he was seeing.
"Hmph."
"My Yan'er is innately gifted. She took a few immortal herbs, reached Rank 40 at twelve years old, and is now absorbing a ten-thousand-year soul ring."
"Is that really so shocking?"
Dugu Bo's stern expression gradually shifted into a proud smirk, his tone slightly accusatory.
"A-Ah, no, not at all, Senior Dugu."
"You misunderstand."
"It's just that in the history of the Douluo Continent, there's never been a twelve-year-old Soul Ancestor."
"I was simply caught off guard. Yan'er's accomplishments are truly praiseworthy—and a great honor to Heaven Dou Imperial Academy."
Qin Ming quickly explained with a sheepish smile.
Then, he waved at the group behind him to approach.
The other teachers hurried forward, and after taking in the scene and hearing Qin Ming's explanation, their faces stretched in disbelief.
"Teacher Qin, is that really the Dugu Yan you recruited?"
"She's already reached the Soul Ancestor realm at such a young age?"
"Hahaha, that's right. I recruited her."
Qin Ming nodded, grinning broadly.
"Lin Feng, is Dugu Yan… absorbing a soul ring right now?"
A late-arriving Yu Tianheng asked, stunned.
"Haven't you absorbed one yourself? Can't you recognize what it looks like?"
Lin Feng replied with an expression of speechless disdain.
"No way. This is impossible!"
Yu Tianheng looked stunned, unable to believe his eyes.
"Are you kidding me, Lin Feng?"
"She was just barely a Soul Elder the other day."
"And now she's already a Soul Ancestor?"
"Is your brain fried or are your eyes broken?"
"Maybe we should get a teacher to check you out."
After days of hard training, Yu Tianheng had regained some confidence. Now, facing Lin Feng again, he dared to speak boldly.
Lin Feng simply smiled. There was no point arguing with the clueless.
"You brat, did you just insult my granddaughter and her future husband?"
"Sounds like you're tired of living."
From the corner, Dugu Bo's furious roar exploded.
A wave of terrifying soul pressure swept across the clearing.
Everyone trembled under its weight, forced to their knees with gritted teeth.
Yu Tianheng slammed to the ground, both knees hitting the dirt in a clumsy, humiliating posture.
"Senior Dugu, please! Tianheng didn't mean it."
"He's young and reckless—please don't take it to heart!"
Qin Ming said through clenched teeth, his face contorted with effort.
"Ahem… Grandpa."
"These are all our current teachers and classmates."
"Can you let this one slide?"
Lin Feng stepped forward to mediate.
He also transmitted a message secretly to Dugu Bo:
"Old man, Yu Tianheng's grandfather is Thunderclap Douluo. I believe you can take him down, but maybe spare the kid for now?"
Dugu Bo's expression twitched.
Thunderclap Douluo, Yu Yuanzhen?
I can take him down?
Why haven't I heard that before?
This damn kid really knows how to hand me excuses.
"Hmph. Fine, Feng'er—this time, I'll let it go for your sake."
"But if that Yu Yuanzhen dares show up in person, he won't walk away whole."
Dugu Bo replied via transmission.