I Slept With Xiao Wu...!

Chapter 197: Finding Xiao Wu

Star Dou Forest, the largest soul beast forest on the continent, home to the forest's rulers and countless ten-thousand-year soul beasts, teeming with danger.

A squad of over thirty individuals from the Spirit Hall appeared on the outskirts of the forest, advancing toward the central area in their search.

This operation was ordered by Pope Bibi Dong and led by Chrysanthemum Douluo and Ghost Douluo, tasked with capturing the hundred-thousand-year-old Soft Bone Rabbit that had escaped five years ago.

With two titled Douluo and over thirty Soul Emperor-level experts in the group, even a hundred-thousand-year soul beast would struggle to escape, let alone a human-transformed Soft Bone Rabbit.

Bibi Dong had assessed the risk of this mission as relatively low and used the opportunity to allow the Golden Generation—Hu Liena, Xie Yue, and Yan—to gain experience.

Having trained for five years in the Death Canyon, their soul power had surpassed level sixty, and they were now accustomed to killing, vastly different from their former selves at the Soul Master Tournament.

Hu Liena had made even greater progress, cultivating a deadly aura in the Slaughter City, where she braved Hell's Road and inherited the extremely rare Killing God Domain. Across the entire continent, only five individuals, including her, possessed such a domain.

"Night is falling. Set up camp," Chrysanthemum Douluo commanded, halting the team.

The group of thirty found a clearing, pitched over twenty tents, and lit fires to prepare for the night.

After several days of traveling and indiscriminate searching, they were closing in on the central area and estimated they would locate their target the following day.

That night, most of the group, including Xie Yue and Yan, retreated to their tents to rest, leaving a few Soul Emperors to stand guard.

Chrysanthemum Douluo and Ghost Douluo rested on the branches of a tree. As titled Douluo, they needed little sleep and focused on ensuring the team's safety.

Suddenly, a cold wind swept through the forest, extinguishing the campfires even from a distance.

Chrysanthemum Douluo's eyes snapped open as he leapt from the tree branch, his expression dark. He had sensed a powerful mental fluctuation flash by.

Ghost Douluo, his ever-solemn face shrouded in shadow, coldly scanned the forest with his pitch-black eyes.

"There's a little mouse nearby," he said in an icy tone.

The mental fluctuation was none other than Tang San's Blue Silver Domain, probing the Spirit Hall's forces.

As titled Douluo, both men immediately detected Tang San's actions.

Moments later, from the dark forest emerged a figure draped in blue, striding confidently toward the camp.

It was a young man with flowing blue hair, wearing a sharp blue suit, walking boldly toward the heart of enemy territory.

"Who goes there?" Five Soul Emperors instantly released their martial spirits, staring warily at the figure fifty meters away.

Tang San remained calm. His sole objective was to infiltrate the group and seize the Spirit Hall's target. Without a word, he released his Killing God Domain, unleashing a bone-chilling aura. The nearby fires froze into blocks of ice.

"Tang Yin!"

Inside her tent, Hu Liena bolted upright and rushed out. That familiar aura belonged to none other than Tang Yin—the handsome man who had saved her in the Slaughter City.

Tang San's sudden intrusion into the Spirit Hall camp enraged the group, prompting more than a dozen Soul Sages to surround him.

Feigning calm, he declared his intent: he was merely hunting soul beasts in the Star Dou Forest and sought to cooperate with the Spirit Hall forces.

"Attacking us is your way of asking for cooperation?" Yan sneered, finding the claim laughable.

Xie Yue gripped his twin crescent blades tightly, uninterested in talking, and prepared to subdue the unwelcome guest.

Before a fight could break out, Hu Liena intervened, pleading with Xie Yue, Yan, and the others to spare Tang San.

"Brother, he's my friend. He helped me in the Slaughter City," Hu Liena explained, begging Chrysanthemum Douluo and Ghost Douluo to let Tang San go. She promised to take responsibility for any losses.

Though the two Douluo initially intended to kill Tang San to avoid complications, they doted on Hu Liena like a granddaughter. Reluctantly, they spared him.

Chrysanthemum Douluo also saw potential in Tang San, sensing his formidable mental strength, which could aid in locating their target.

Thanks to Hu Liena, Tang San successfully infiltrated the Spirit Hall team, joining them in their search for the hundred-thousand-year-old Soft Bone Rabbit.

The following morning, the team set out again, advancing toward the forest's center.

With Tang San's mental probing, they could scan up to fifteen hundred meters ahead, helping them avoid unnecessary troubles.

Under his guidance, the group made rapid progress and soon approached their destination.

As they neared a lake, Tang San detected two massive figures: one was the Titan Giant Ape, and the other an even more terrifying creature—a beast with a serpent body and bull's head, resembling a small mountain. Its lantern-sized eyes glared menacingly.

The two hundred-thousand-year soul beasts exuded an overwhelming aura. A single glance from them shattered Tang San's mental probe, leaving him pale and trembling.

Tang San spat out a mouthful of blood, his head buzzing as if struck by a colossal force.

"Tang Yin, are you okay?" Hu Liena rushed to support him, her face full of concern.

Chrysanthemum Douluo and Ghost Douluo exchanged knowing glances. Their target was clearly nearby.

"Welcome to the Star Dou Forest, Spirit Hall!"

A gentle, melodic voice echoed from the forest's depths, reaching every ear.

Tang San's body trembled violently upon hearing it. No matter how hard he tried to remain composed, his emotions overwhelmed him.

It was Xiao Wu—his Xiao Wu! Even after five years, he instantly recognized her unique voice, the voice of the woman he loved.

"This is bad. There's more than one hundred-thousand-year soul beast," Chrysanthemum Douluo muttered grimly. A thousand meters ahead lay two terrifying presences, likely the Titan Giant Ape and another forest ruler.

The group advanced cautiously, their martial spirits activated, ready for any danger.

Ten Soul Sages formed a protective hexagonal formation around Hu Liena, Xie Yue, Yan, and Tang San, shielding the Golden Generation from harm.

The team moved slowly, nerves taut, and eventually emerged at the edge of a cliff.

Beyond the cliff lay a vibrant field of flowers and fruit trees, a picturesque scene. In the distance, a vast, shimmering lake sparkled under the sunlight.

However, the serene beauty was overshadowed by the two towering soul beasts in the center of the flower field—both hundred-thousand-year-level beasts glaring at the intruders.

Their target, the Soft Bone Rabbit, was among them, yet no one dared act rashly.

"Spirit Hall, it's time to settle this," Xiao Wu said coldly, her expression devoid of warmth. Her beautiful eyes were filled with icy disdain as she stared at the group.

It was these people who had indirectly caused Chen Xuan's death, leaving her child fatherless.

Chapter 198: Xiao Wu Five Years Later

At the heart of the Star Dou Forest, beneath a cliff, a breathtaking scene unfolded.

The valley below was blanketed in vibrant flowers and fruit trees, shimmering like a woven tapestry under the radiant sunlight. The sea of blooms painted a stunningly beautiful yet surreal picture.

Amid this enchanting scenery stood two colossal creatures, their imposing presence clashing with the idyllic surroundings. Both were ten-thousand-year soul beasts, exuding terrifying auras that overshadowed the serene beauty of the floral paradise.

Perched on the shoulder of the Titan Giant Ape was a strikingly beautiful woman clad in pink. Her long, white-stockinged legs peeked out from beneath her dress, exuding an otherworldly allure akin to a goddess descending to the mortal world.

Her flawless complexion, soft features, and delicate makeup enhanced her ethereal presence. Her long hair, tied in a high ponytail, gleamed like silk in the sunlight, swaying gently in the breeze. She looked like a celestial being untouched by mortal struggles.

This was Xiao Wu, matured and radiant after five years. Her figure had developed into perfection, with a slender waist and gracefully arched curves. Her pink, semi-transparent gown floated around her like mist, paired with crystal-clear high heels that revealed her snow-white feet.

Her every movement exuded elegance, her orchid-like fragrance intoxicating. She seemed less like a warrior standing amidst beasts and more like a muse who had stepped out of a painting.

Her appearance stunned everyone present. Even Hu Liena, known for her own alluring beauty, felt overshadowed and inferior.

"Xiao Wu... you've grown," murmured Tang San, his heart trembling as he gazed at her.

His eyes, filled with longing, couldn't tear away from her. Five years had passed, and the once youthful Xiao Wu had transformed into a breathtakingly mature woman.

"Such beauty..." Tang San whispered, overcome with emotion. His hands trembled as memories and affection overwhelmed him.

Even the powerful Spirit Masters of the Spirit Hall found themselves momentarily captivated by Xiao Wu's ethereal presence, though their attention quickly returned to the tense battlefield.

Xiao Wu stood on the Titan Giant Ape's shoulder, her flowing dress rippling like the petals of a flower. Her cold, piercing gaze swept over the Spirit Hall members.

"Spirit Hall... the sins you committed five years ago will be repaid today in blood," she declared, her voice icy and resolute.

The Titan Giant Ape roared, the sound reverberating through the forest and sending shockwaves that shattered the tranquility. Trees trembled, cliffs cracked, and birds scattered in terror.

The Spirit Hall members, especially those below the rank of Spirit Emperor, paled. The sheer pressure from the ten-thousand-year soul beast left them trembling, their spirit power in disarray.

"Is this the power of a ten-thousand-year soul beast?" one of them stammered, fear evident in his voice.

Even Hu Liena, Xie Yue, and Yan—the so-called Golden Generation—looked grim, realizing the vast gulf between themselves and such ancient beings.

"Stay calm and don't act recklessly," ordered Chrysanthemum Douluo.

He and Ghost Douluo exchanged glances, their years of tacit understanding evident. While confident in their abilities as Titled Douluo, neither underestimated the two colossal beasts before them.

"Old Ghost, it's time for that move," Chrysanthemum Douluo said, his voice heavy.

Ghost Douluo nodded, already understanding. Both activated their martial spirits, their combined power creating a dreadful aura that spread through the battlefield.

Xiao Wu, sensing their intent, leapt gracefully from the Titan Giant Ape's shoulder, taking shelter behind the Azure Bull Python.

"Seventh Spirit Ability, Martial Spirit Avatar!"

Chrysanthemum Douluo's Strange Velvet Sky Chrysanthemum transformed into a massive, house-sized blossom. Its petals gleamed with a metallic sheen, each as sharp as a blade.

Petals rained down like a storm of knives, covering a hundred-meter radius.

The Titan Giant Ape and Azure Bull Python stood their ground, indifferent to the attack. Petals struck their iron-like bodies with metallic clangs, failing to leave a single scratch.

Chrysanthemum Douluo smirked. His goal wasn't to harm the beasts but to bind them.

Ghost Douluo appeared in a flash, his black mist surging between the two beasts. Together, the two Douluo unleashed their ultimate move.

"Martial Spirit Fusion Technique!"

Eighteen spirit rings—nine from each Douluo—merged as they clasped hands. A blinding silver light erupted, illuminating half the forest like a miniature sun.

The intense radiance forced everyone to shield their eyes. When the light dimmed, a chilling sight met their gaze: the Titan Giant Ape and Azure Bull Python were suspended mid-air, completely immobilized. Even the ripples in the nearby lake seemed frozen in time.

The Titan Giant Ape roared in defiance, its immense strength causing its bones to crackle as it struggled against the Two Polar Forbidden Domain. Yet it couldn't move an inch.

"Run!" the Azure Bull Python urged telepathically.

"Xiao Wu, leave now!" it pleaded, desperation lacing its voice.

But Xiao Wu stood firm, her gaze fixed on the Spirit Hall forces. Her clenched fists trembled, not with fear, but with determination.

Chapter 199: The Island

As mighty rulers of the forest, the Sky Azure Bull Python and the Titan Giant Ape, both hundred-thousand-year soul beasts, found themselves ensnared in a trap. The martial soul fusion skill of two Title Douluo immobilized them, freezing them mid-air.

"We can only hold them for a while! Xie Yue, Nana, go capture that rabbit! Don't let her escape!" Ghost Douluo transmitted his voice, commanding the Spirit Hall forces.

Their two-tier forbidden domain could restrict everything below a god-level, but the side effects were severe—those who cast the technique were also immobilized within its bounds.

"Follow me!" Xie Yue shouted, leading ten black-clad Soul Sages as they charged forward.

Yan waved his hand, leading twenty Soul Emperors as they leapt off the cliff, each activating their fastest soul skills to pursue Xiao Wu.

"That hundred-thousand-year rabbit ran into the forest. Split up and find her!" Xie Yue ordered loudly.

At the original spot, only Tang San, Hu Liena, and a few minor Soul Emperors remained, while everyone else charged ahead.

On the other side, Xiao Wu dove into the forest at the first opportunity, quickly putting several kilometers between her and her pursuers.

Her experiences over the past five years had made her wiser. She now understood how to leverage her strengths and avoid her weaknesses. As a five-ring Soul King, she knew she was no match for a Soul Sage in any aspect, so she relied on the forest's complex terrain to escape.

Having lived for tens of thousands of years in the forest, no one was more familiar with the Star Dou Forest than Xiao Wu. In the concealed mountains and woods, she held the advantage.

However, the Spirit Hall's forces were far stronger and faster than she had anticipated.

Under Xie Yue's leadership, the thirty-two pursuers split into three squads, conducting a thorough search. No matter how dense the forest, it was no match for so many people combing through it.

Moreover, Xiao Wu had not yet reached the sixtieth level of cultivation and had given birth to a daughter. Even though she tried her best to suppress it, she couldn't completely hide the soul beast aura she exuded.

To the Spirit Hall's hunters, the hundred-thousand-year rabbit was like a beacon in the night, guiding them ever closer.

Yan led ten Soul Emperors, all specializing in agility and speed. They caught up to Xiao Wu within no time, closing the distance to less than a hundred meters.

"You can't escape!" Yan laughed loudly, unleashing his soul power for a sudden burst of speed.

If he could personally capture Xiao Wu, he would become the greatest contributor to the mission, earning recognition from the Pope herself. Even Hu Liena might look at him differently!

With a deafening roar, birds and beasts scattered. The forest erupted into chaos as the ten Soul Emperors surged forward, trampling everything in their path. Trees fell in waves as they barreled through.

Whoosh!

Black soul rings lit up one after another as the Soul Emperors unleashed their soul skills, condensing energy beams that shot toward the pink figure darting ahead.

The mountain ahead exploded in a fiery blast. A nearby peak disintegrated, engulfed by radiant energy and flattened in an instant.

At the foot of the mountain, Xiao Wu panted heavily, her delicate, pale face glistening with sweat. She had already run over ten kilometers, using her teleportation skill multiple times. Her soul power was more than half depleted.

If not for activating her Invincible Golden Body and then teleporting to evade, she might have already perished.

"Chen Xuan, I'll join you soon. But before that, I'll make these people pay for what they've done to you." Xiao Wu's bloodstained lips curved into a smile as she looked toward the sky.

She knew her chances of survival were slim, but she didn't care. If not for her daughter, Chen Qiuer, she might have long since followed him.

Wiping the blood from the corner of her mouth, her beautiful eyes grew resolute. Ready to face death, she activated teleportation once more and disappeared into the rugged forest.

In this world, she had few attachments left. If there was anything, it was her only daughter with Chen Xuan.

A month ago, she had entrusted Chen Qiuer to her best friend's care. Zhu Zhuqing had promised to raise her into an elite soul master.

"Chen Xuan, you must be lonely down there. I'll take a few members of the Spirit Hall with me to accompany you." Xiao Wu's gaze hardened, though a flicker of sorrow passed through her eyes.

For five years, thoughts of that man had never left her mind. Memories of him were bittersweet, leaving her heart in turmoil.

Even if the Spirit Hall hadn't appeared, she would have gone to join him after this. She didn't want him to be alone any longer.

Changing direction, Xiao Wu headed toward an area full of memories—a large lake in the forest. At its center stood a great tree, where Chen Xuan had transformed into his final form.

Not long after, she reached the familiar maple forest and the lake that held countless memories.

Xiao Wu turned slightly, casting a cold glance behind her. Her pale face radiated icy indifference.

"Only eleven of you? Lucky for you." Her voice was frigid.

Stepping lightly onto the lake's surface, she activated her teleportation skill again and disappeared.

"After her!" Yan bellowed.

Without hesitation, he led the ten black-clad Soul Emperors forward, walking on water.

At their level, even though they couldn't fly, walking on water or climbing trees was effortless.

The eleven pursuers relentlessly advanced until they reached a small island two kilometers away.

The island was cold and barren, covered in frozen soil with hardly any vegetation. Yet, at its center stood a lush, vibrant tree radiating vitality.

"Run! Aren't you good at running? Why aren't you running now?" Yan sneered, stepping toward Xiao Wu.

The ten Soul Emperors followed closely, their cold, blade-like gazes locked onto her.

Xiao Wu stood gracefully before the tree, her pink dress fluttering in the wind. She gazed at them silently, no longer fleeing.

"Spirit Hall… You all deserve to die!" Her icy voice dripped with killing intent, her pale face devoid of emotion.

Yan burst into mocking laughter. He had never heard such a ridiculous statement in his life.

"Rabbit, if you hadn't taken human form, we wouldn't stand a chance against you. But now? With only five rings, what can you do against us?"

A black-clad Soul Emperor stepped forward and sneered. "Soft Bone Rabbit, surrender. Spare yourself unnecessary suffering. You're a clever beast, aren't you?"

Xiao Wu remained unfazed, her cold gaze fixed on them like they were already dead.

"Chen Xuan, I won't let you be alone. I'll take them with me to accompany you." She turned and gently caressed the tree one last time, tears welling in her eyes.

Her eyes burned with determination. Without another word, she summoned her Soft Bone Rabbit martial soul. Five soul rings rose around her, resonating as they pulsated with power.

Her body began to glow as red soul power surged, and the five rings vibrated in harmony, compressing as they gathered strength.

"She's going to self-destruct!" one experienced Soul Emperor shouted in alarm, his trembling finger pointing at Xiao Wu.

The others froze, fear written on their faces. Everyone knew the devastating power of a hundred-thousand-year soul beast's self-destruction—nothing within a kilometer would survive.

"Damn it!" Yan's face darkened. They had cornered their prey, only to face such a desperate outcome. He was unwilling to retreat but had no choice.

However, just as they prepared to flee, an astonishing event unfolded. Xiao Wu, who had been on the verge of self-destruction, suddenly retracted her martial soul, and the radiant red glow dimmed.

"What's going on?"

The Soul Emperors halted, their escape interrupted by this unexpected turn. Confused, they looked toward the beautiful woman. Why had her self-destruction stopped?

Before they could react, the massive tree at the island's center began to glow, releasing an overwhelming soul power. A chilling aura enveloped the area, dropping the temperature to freezing levels.

"Leave now, and you may live!"

Chapter 200: Reunion

The island was perpetually cold, shrouded in a chilling mist year-round. Nothing grew on its barren, frozen soil except for a single enormous tree, its trunk as wide as a water tank, vibrant and lush in stark contrast to its surroundings.

The Flame Lord Yan froze in place, his body stiff. The island was devoid of life, and the voice that had just resonated could only have come from the massive tree.

The Spirit Hall members turned pale, a shiver running down their spines—not because the tree could speak, but due to the chilling, sinister soul power emanating from it. The air was thick with a malevolent aura, enough to make even the bravest tremble.

They noticed the lake behind them beginning to freeze, while a thin layer of frost crept over the frozen soil beneath their feet.

"Calm down, everyone! That tree has no cultivation—it's not a soul beast. It's just a bluff by that rabbit!" Yan barked loudly, determined to stabilize his team. The prize of their mission was within reach, and he couldn't let fear derail them now.

The ten black-clad Soul Emperors were no fools. The sudden presence of an oppressive aura had indeed startled them, but as they regained composure, they realized it was just a tree—a common plant.

Only Xiao Wu stood trembling, her delicate figure visibly shaking. Her empty, dazed eyes were locked onto the tree, lost in thought.

"Was it an illusion?" she murmured, her voice unsteady. For a fleeting moment, she thought she had felt a gentle hand stop her self-destruction, as though someone didn't want her to perish.

"Leave now, and I'll spare your lives." The tree glowed again, radiating icy soul power as the voice reverberated once more.

It was Chen Xuan's voice. Though still bound to the tree, his soul carried through its form, issuing a warning. Having just awakened, he was unwilling to unleash carnage on what should have been a joyous return.

Chen Xuan had been awake for some time, but he hadn't immediately emerged. He had been purifying his soul, restoring his physical vitality, and experimenting with a celestial body refinement process.

Yan and the ten Soul Emperors hesitated. The initial terror of the unknown had faded, replaced by caution. They were calculating how best to prevent Xiao Wu from self-destructing.

"Leave now, and I'll let you live. Stay, and you'll die." Chen Xuan's voice carried a chilling finality.

Xiao Wu's body trembled violently, tears filling her reddened eyes. This time, she was sure—the voice was his. The man she had thought about day and night, the man she could never forget.

The voice that had haunted her dreams for five years was now real. Joy filled her heart as she realized her long-lost love had returned.

Tears streamed down her cheeks as Xiao Wu choked back sobs. She was elated yet terrified, afraid this was just another cruel illusion.

"Chen Xuan… is it really you?" she whispered, her trembling hands reaching out to touch the tree.

Inside, Chen Xuan felt a pang of sorrow. Seeing the most important person in his life crying so heart-wrenchingly filled him with regret.

"Enough," he sighed, deciding to end his evolution prematurely and emerge.

Raising his hand, a streak of lightning cracked through the air, splitting the massive tree open with a deafening snap.

With a resounding thud, Chen Xuan kicked the tree trunk apart, stepping out into the world. Sunlight bathed his face, and after five long years, its warmth almost blinded him.

Xiao Wu stared blankly at the familiar figure before her, her gaze locked onto him. He hadn't changed at all. He looked exactly as he did five years ago, just as she remembered.

"You… you're really back…" Even though she had prepared herself for this moment, Xiao Wu was dazed, unable to believe it was real.

"Yes, I'm back. Thank you for enduring all this time without me." Chen Xuan's voice was soft, his eyes scanning the beautiful woman before him. She had matured over the years, her figure graceful and her face radiant. She was breathtaking.

Recognizing him beyond a doubt, Xiao Wu couldn't hold back her emotions. She threw herself into his arms, sobbing uncontrollably.

"You bastard! You left us! Do you know how much Qiu'er and I missed you? You're the worst!" Xiao Wu cried, her small fists pounding against his chest in frustration and love.

Chen Xuan let her vent her emotions, not resisting her hits. Gently, he wiped the tears from her exquisite face, his touch tender and full of regret.

Startled by his affectionate gesture, Xiao Wu's cheeks flushed bright red, her anger momentarily replaced by embarrassment.

Holding her tightly, Chen Xuan sighed. This was their first embrace since he had arrived in this world, and it was filled with unspoken emotion.

Stroking her hair gently, he murmured, "Alright, don't cry anymore. We'll talk later. First, let's deal with them."

He glanced at the ten black-clad Soul Emperors led by Yan, who were watching them with murderous intent.

But Xiao Wu refused to let go. She clung to him as if her life depended on it, burying her face in his chest.

To her, the five years without him had been unbearably long and filled with pain. Now that he was back, she feared he might disappear again.

Chen Xuan sighed inwardly but smiled warmly, embracing her tightly.

The Soul Emperors, however, were infuriated by the blatant disregard for their presence.

"Chen Xuan… you're still alive," Yan growled, his voice cold and filled with disbelief. He recognized the man as a participant from the Shrek team during the Soul Master Competition.

Chen Xuan raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. "And you're still alive? It seems I'll have to change that."

Yan's expression darkened, fury burning in his eyes. "You're a traitor, and you should have stayed dead!"

Unbothered by Yan's words, Chen Xuan gently disentangled himself from Xiao Wu.

"I'll be back in a moment," he said softly, his tone reassuring.

Turning to face the Soul Emperors, he asked, "Who's first? Or would you rather come at me together?"

Without waiting for an answer, he struck. Within moments, the serene lake was transformed into a battlefield, its waters churning with the unleashed power of a man reborn.

Chapter 201: Tremendous Speed Boost

After his rebirth, Chen Xuan broke through the shackles of his martial soul. The chain that had bound his spatial martial soul was shattered by him.

Now, he could fully unleash the power of his spatial martial soul without being subjected to the limitations he had faced before.

By the lake, black patterns stretched out like iron chains, densely packed and covering an area of two hundred meters.

"Ah!"

Someone cried out in pain, colliding headfirst into an invisible wall, completely unprepared. A lump immediately swelled on their forehead as they winced in agony.

"What's going on?"

The others' expressions changed drastically. They had been about to escape the lake, only to be forcefully pushed back.

Refusing to believe what was happening, they made multiple attempts, each time crashing into an invisible barrier that sent them flying.

"What the hell is this?"

The Flame Lord Yan's expression turned grim. The shore was right in front of him, but an unseen wall blocked their path, making escape impossible.

"If we can't go forward, we'll go up!" He leapt into the air, soaring dozens of meters high while activating his martial soul.

"Second Soul Skill: Granite Rock!" Yan roared, his body igniting with flames as he punched forward, rocketing upward like a cannonball.

With a loud bang, he slammed into an invisible barrier and was sent hurtling back, crashing heavily into the lake.

"Impossible! Even the sky is sealed off!" The nine other Soul Emperors paled, their hearts sinking further.

Invisible walls surrounded them on all sides, isolating them from the outside world and trapping them within. What kind of power could achieve this? Not even a Soul Douluo could manage such a feat!

Chen Xuan approached step by step, muttering to himself, "Let's change locations. No need for their blood to pollute the lake."

He squatted down and dug out a lump of soil, engraving it with a string of runes. The medium was complete.

Although his martial soul had gained several spatial abilities, its fundamental nature hadn't changed—it still required a medium for activation. Unfortunately, he lacked kunai or throwing stars.

Swish!

Chen Xuan lightly tossed the soil into the air. Encased in golden light, it shot off into the distance.

At this level, brute force was no longer necessary. By injecting the right amount of soul power, he could guide the medium with precision.

With a quick hand seal, Chen Xuan activated his spatial ability. In an instant, the people at the lake vanished, reappearing several kilometers away.

"What happened? Where is this place?" The group was bewildered. Without moving a step, they had felt a wave of dizziness as their surroundings abruptly changed.

The area was overgrown with weeds and dense trees. The lake was nowhere to be seen. They had no idea what had just happened, but they had been inexplicably transported to a forest.

"I gave you a chance, and you squandered it. Now, you can die." This time, Chen Xuan showed no mercy, leaving no path for escape.

He clenched his hand tightly, manipulating his spatial ability. The runes within a two-hundred-meter radius began contracting, compressing rapidly until the space shrank to just thirty meters.

"No, stay back!"

Several black-clad Soul Emperors, unable to bear the psychological pressure, were overtaken by fear. They watched in horror as massive trees were crushed by invisible walls, disintegrating into powder.

Chen Xuan didn't spare them another glance. He had no concern that the ten trapped individuals could break free of the contracting space. Unless they were Soul Douluo-level, escape was impossible.

Turning away, Chen Xuan walked back as desperate screams echoed behind him. The cries of anguish, followed by the sound of bodies bursting, finally gave way to silence.

The Flame Lord Yan and the nine Soul Emperors were reduced to blood and flesh, forever left behind in this forest.

After dealing with them, Chen Xuan expanded his spiritual awareness, extending his sensory technique to cover a ten-kilometer radius. Every presence within was captured.

This technique was directly tied to spiritual power. At its peak, it could cover hundreds of kilometers, though that wasn't its limit. Despite his lack of practice, his powerful soul allowed the technique to advance.

"Chrysanthemum Douluo, Ghost Douluo, and ten Soul Sages. The Spirit Hall is as extravagant as ever." Chen Xuan murmured, sensing numerous strong presences. Among them, he recognized a particularly familiar one rapidly approaching Xiao Wu's location.

Even though this aura had changed—its blood energy now unnervingly dense—Chen Xuan recognized it immediately.

"As expected, it's you, Tang San!" Chen Xuan chuckled. Persistent as a ghost, even after five years, Tang San was still fixated on Xiao Wu.

It was unlikely he was just looking for her. Deep down, his true motive was probably to obtain another spirit ring.

"If that's the case, you can stay forever." Chen Xuan's expression turned cold. Someone obsessed with Xiao Wu had to be dealt with, especially now that he was alive.

"Strange. Another group is following. Five Soul Sages." Chen Xuan raised an eyebrow, detecting Xie Yue and a group of five Soul Sages and five Soul Emperors trailing behind Tang San.

Whether they were chasing Tang San or targeting Xiao Wu was unclear.

To play it safe, Chen Xuan created a shadow clone before heading back, sending it to investigate Xie Yue's group.

"My physical strength should now surpass that of a Soul Douluo, right?" He felt explosive energy coursing through his body, stored within his bones and muscles. It was time to test his limits on the way back.

Boom!

Stepping on the grass, blue lightning flickered across Chen Xuan's body. His cells felt unusually active, as if the energy within him had been awakened.

In the next moment, he dashed forward at an astonishing speed, even surprising himself.

Boom!

The air exploded with a deafening sonic boom. At ninety percent of his full power, Chen Xuan had covered five hundred meters in just two seconds.

It left him stunned. Five years ago, his full power could only manage two to three hundred meters in the same timeframe. This was on a completely different level.

His current speed likely surpassed even the agility-focused Soul Douluo.

"It seems my body was too overworked before. After resting for five years, the accumulation has finally paid off."

If the timing weren't so urgent, Chen Xuan would have continued testing his abilities. He felt far from his limits.

Swish!

Another sonic boom rang out as Chen Xuan, surrounded by lightning, transformed into a streak of light and disappeared into the forest's edge.

Elsewhere, Tang San, using his exceptional spiritual awareness, located Xiao Wu near a clearing by the maple forest. It was a spot she often used for cooking and gathering firewood.

Dressed in a translucent pink skirt, Xiao Wu stood before her cabin, gazing into the distance. She immediately sensed a foreign, powerful aura approaching.

"Who are you?" she asked, her brows furrowing in vigilance as she stared at the man who suddenly appeared.

The man had blue hair, a handsome face, and a tall, muscular build. His presence exuded confidence.

"Xiao Wu, it's me! It's your Third Brother!"

Chapter 202: Xiao Wu's Feelings Toward Tang San

In the central region of the Star Dou Forest, Tang San's expression was filled with excitement. "Xiao Wu, it's me, your Third Brother! Don't you recognize me?"

Tears welled up in his eyes as his heart swirled with overwhelming joy and bitterness. Five long years—it had been five years since he last saw his beloved Xiao Wu. This moment surpassed even the happiness he felt upon discovering that his mother was still alive.

After all these years, his Xiao Wu was still as beautiful as ever. Her figure remained stunning, adorned in a flowing pink dress that shimmered like translucent silk, faintly revealing her long, fair legs. She exuded an irresistible allure.

Particularly captivating were her crystal high-heeled feet, a sight that would drive any man mad, making it impossible to stay composed.

Tang San's heart raced. This was the woman he loved. The more dazzling her beauty, the happier he felt. After all, she was his Xiao Wu, and now she belonged solely to him, as she always would.

"Xiao Wu, don't you recognize me? I'm your Third Brother." He smiled, his voice trembling with emotion, as he opened his arms and took a step toward her cabin.

"I don't know you. Please leave," Xiao Wu said, retreating a few steps, her delicate brows furrowing slightly. Her fair face showed clear displeasure.

She stood at the door of her cabin, gazing into the distance, waiting for her man to return—not this stranger calling himself Tang San.

Five years was neither too long nor too short, but it was enough to heal wounds and allow someone to forget many things.

As for Tang San, the special feelings Xiao Wu once had for him had long faded. What remained was a bond of sibling-like affection, rooted in their shared experiences at Nuoding Academy and Shrek Academy—memories she couldn't completely erase.

Back then, she had witnessed Chen Xuan's death with her own eyes, watched him leave her forever. It was only then that she truly understood her heart. The place Chen Xuan occupied in her life was a hundred times greater than Tang San's.

"If you don't leave, don't blame me for being rude," Xiao Wu said coldly, issuing her ultimatum.

It didn't matter whether the man before her was her Third Brother or not—her feelings for Tang San had already faded. Now, the only people she cared about were her daughter and Chen Xuan.

Moreover, she had previously witnessed Tang San standing among Spirit Hall's ranks at the cliffside. Even if he wasn't one of their members, he was clearly no benevolent soul.

Tang San realized that without compelling evidence, Xiao Wu wouldn't believe him, nor would she willingly leave with him.

Since awakening the Blue Silver Emperor bloodline, Tang San's demeanor and appearance had undergone significant changes. Even familiar faces like the dean and Dai Mubai hadn't recognized him. Only individuals with extremely sharp spiritual senses could discern his identity.

"Xiao Wu, I really am your Third Brother. I think this should prove my identity." Tang San smiled as he extended his hands, revealing a golden strand of grass and a small hammer, both floating in his palms.

While releasing his martial souls, he took a step closer to Xiao Wu, using the opportunity to narrow the distance. These two unique martial souls were unmistakable proof of his identity.

As expected, upon seeing the familiar martial souls, Xiao Wu's mind buzzed as if struck by a thunderclap. She stood frozen, staring blankly, her mind momentarily adrift.

Her body stiffened slightly, her expression one of disbelief as she murmured, "You… really are Third Brother?"

"Without a doubt!" Tang San's face lit up with a radiant smile. It had been years since they last met, and he was sure Xiao Wu must have missed him too. Naturally, he anticipated a warm reunion hug. With open arms, he waited for his beloved to lean into his embrace.

But Xiao Wu's expression instantly turned cold. She backed away to the cabin door, her demeanor clearly rejecting Tang San's approach.

"If you dare come any closer, I won't hold back!" she said icily, her gaze flashing with a hint of disgust.

Tang San's outstretched hands froze mid-air, leaving him awkward and unsure whether to retract them or not. Feeling the growing tension, he reluctantly stopped his advance.

Meanwhile, hidden in the treetops, Chen Xuan quietly sheathed his blade, suppressing its gleaming edge. He had been ready to act the moment Tang San made another move. If Tang San dared take even one more step forward, Chen Xuan would not hesitate to strike and sever those filthy hands.

Concealed among the thick foliage, Chen Xuan used the spatial power of his martial soul to isolate himself from all senses, blending seamlessly with the surrounding space.

From the moment Tang San arrived, Chen Xuan had been watching. He refrained from intervening immediately, wanting to observe Xiao Wu's attitude toward Tang San and see if there was any lingering affection.

Tang San, sensing that he shouldn't press further, resorted to words in an attempt to persuade her. His mission had now shifted—he was determined to take Xiao Wu back to Shrek Academy.

"Xiao Wu, do you know how much the dean, Teacher Erlong, and everyone else have missed you these past five years? I've missed you too. Xiao Wu, come back to the academy with me. I promise to protect you from now on," Tang San said earnestly, his voice brimming with emotion.

Since learning that Xiao Wu had been with Chen Xuan, Tang San realized his feelings were far deeper than mere sibling affection. He had fallen in love with her—a love that would never waver.

As for the time at Shrek Academy when he had nearly killed her in a fit of rage, he deeply regretted his actions. At the time, he had been provoked by Chen Xuan and acted impulsively.

Tang San believed that with Xiao Wu's gentle nature, she wouldn't blame him. She might even harbor feelings for him, held back only by Chen Xuan's interference in the past.

"Xiao Wu, I forgive you. I don't mind that you've had a child. After all, that traitor is already dead. From now on, we can start a new life together," he said, touched by his own words. To him, accepting Xiao Wu despite her past was a testament to his magnanimity—something few men could achieve.

However, Tang San was too absorbed in his own fantasies to notice the disgust flashing in Xiao Wu's eyes. By the time he finished speaking, her fair face had turned completely icy.

Suddenly, Tang San's body tensed. His Blue Silver Domain detected an approaching group led by Xie Yue. Five Soul Sages were less than a kilometer away.

"Xiao Wu, there's no time. You must come with me. I'll take you out of the Star Dou Forest," Tang San urged, his voice filled with urgency as the Soul Sages closed the gap to just seven hundred meters.

Although he could defeat a single Soul Sage, facing five Soul Sages and six Soul Emperors was certain death.

"This is the last time I'll call you Third Brother. Please leave and don't come near me again. I don't want Chen Xuan to misunderstand," Xiao Wu said coldly, her tone devoid of emotion.

She had already severed ties with Shrek Academy, the dean, and Liu Erlong. The only people she cared about now were her daughter and Chen Xuan.

Tang San's brows furrowed. Within his Blue Silver Domain, he sensed Xie Yue's group rapidly closing in—now less than three hundred meters away.

Growing more anxious, he believed Xiao Wu's refusal to leave was irrational. "Xiao Wu, stop being stubborn! Listen to me! If we don't leave now, we'll both die here!"

"Get lost!" Xiao Wu's icy tone and disgusted expression left no room for misunderstanding.

Tang San's irritation deepened. To him, this was childish defiance, oblivious to the danger. Xie Yue's group was now within one hundred meters.

"Xiao Wu, stop being unreasonable. Come with me! Once they catch up, we'll both be in danger!" Tang San shouted, his patience snapping. This time, he lunged forward, reaching out to grab her.

Slash!

A sharp explosion of air shattered the tension. A blade's light tore through the sky, streaking toward Tang San with unparalleled precision and speed.

Thanks to his Blue Silver Domain, Tang San reacted just in time to evade, narrowly avoiding the blade's deadly edge.

Boom!

The ground split apart, leaving deep fissures where the blade struck.

"Who's there?!"

Tang San's forehead was drenched in cold sweat. Had he reacted a moment later, his arms—or worse, his life—would have been forfeit.

"Still as despicable as ever, Tang San. You haven't changed one bit in five years."

Chen Xuan leaped down from the treetop, a gleaming long blade in hand, his eyes cold and unwavering.

Chapter 203: Tang San's Reverse Scale

"Tang San, you really haven't changed at all—arrogant, self-righteous, and overestimating yourself. Take a good look in the mirror; do you even know your own worth?" Chen Xuan spoke, showing no restraint, especially since Tang San had already crossed the line with Xiao Wu.

He drew a bright, gleaming blade, leaping forward and landing steadily between the two of them, shielding Xiao Wu behind him.

"Chen Xuan, why are you back..." Xiao Wu's face lit up briefly with surprise and joy as she jogged to his side.

Fearing a misunderstanding, she hurriedly explained, "Chen Xuan, there's nothing between him and me. He came looking for me on his own. Please believe me."

"I know. I saw everything when I returned just now," Chen Xuan said with a smile, gently stroking Xiao Wu's hair. "Don't worry. As long as you don't want to leave, no one can take you away."

His shadow clone had already intercepted Xie Yue and the others, so the situation was currently safe.

Hearing this, Xiao Wu's face flushed red. She raised her fist in mock anger and punched him on the shoulder, feigning irritation. "You sneaky Chen Xuan! Testing me like this—if you don't trust me, why did you even come back?"

She huffed, crossing her arms in front of her chest and turning away, refusing to look at him.

"Alright, alright, it was my fault this time. I promise it won't happen again," Chen Xuan quickly apologized, admitting his mistake.

Before Xiao Wu could respond, Tang San was already fuming. He glared at Chen Xuan with such intensity that his face turned dark, as if it could drip water.

"You traitor, a disgrace who betrays his teacher and ancestors—you're still alive?!" Tang San's face was ashen as he stared at the man who dared to be so close to his Xiao Wu, seething with hatred.

Chen Xuan chuckled. "What's wrong? Are you disappointed that I'm not dead? Honestly, you're just like your precious Yu Xiaogang—weak, arrogant, and delusional. You think Xiao Wu has to go with you just because you say so? Who do you think you are?"

He sneered and didn't give Tang San a chance to retort, continuing, "Let's be real here. Pretending to take Xiao Wu away is just a cover—you're really after her 100,000-year spirit ring, aren't you? Otherwise, why would you be running around with the Spirit Hall? You're exactly like your father."

"You're spouting nonsense!" Tang San's eyes were wide with fury, his hands trembling.

Tang San was sharp, and he instantly saw through Chen Xuan's tactic. It was a crude scheme to frame him. Even if he didn't have such intentions, Chen Xuan's words had already planted the seed of doubt, solidifying the accusation.

"Xiao Wu, don't believe him! He's slandering me! I've told you before, I'll protect you for my entire life!" Tang San pleaded desperately, afraid that the naïve Xiao Wu would be deceived.

However, Xiao Wu had already started to believe Chen Xuan. Memories of the past surfaced—the time at Shrek Academy when a furious Tang San had mercilessly launched hidden weapons at her. Back then, amidst the chaos caused by her pregnancy, everyone had turned against her. Only Chen Xuan had protected her, shielding her from the hidden weapons and almost killing Tang San in retaliation.

Moreover, Xiao Wu had seen with her own eyes how Tang San was surrounded and welcomed by the Spirit Hall members. She couldn't be mistaken about that.

In five years, much had changed. Time could alter people, and the allure of a 100,000-year spirit ring was undeniable. Who wouldn't be tempted?

Chen Xuan openly admitted that even he wasn't immune to the temptation of a 100,000-year spirit ring or bone. Anyone claiming otherwise was either not a spirit master or a hypocrite.

Xiao Wu's expression grew colder. "I have my own judgment. Chen Xuan loves me deeply. He won't lie to me. Tang San, after what happened last time, I don't owe you anything anymore. Stop speaking ill of Chen Xuan, or I'll truly get angry."

Warmth filled Chen Xuan's heart. Having a wife who trusted him unconditionally was all he could ask for—everything he'd done had been worth it.

"Xiao Wu, how can you trust him? He killed Grandmaster! He's Shrek's enemy! Have you forgotten how our teacher painstakingly guided us? It's because of him that we Seven Monsters are who we are today. Have you forgotten all that?" Tang San cried out, his voice filled with anguish.

He felt a deep sorrow. In just five years, how had Xiao Wu become so indifferent? Had she forgotten that Shrek was a family, a bond that would never break?

Before Xiao Wu could retort, Chen Xuan gently pulled her behind him. "Stop using morality to manipulate others. If Yu Xiaogang had real skills, he wouldn't have only taught basic things like mountain climbing, weight training, and arena battles. Any average teacher could come up with that. Don't overestimate him."

His words were blunt but true, leaving no room for argument. At Shrek Academy, aside from weight training and combat practice, students soaked in medicinal baths at night. Without the resources from their later merger with Blue Tyrant Academy, they wouldn't even have had a simulated training environment.

If Yu Xiaogang had provided even one or two advanced techniques, Chen Xuan wouldn't belittle him. In fact, he'd have respected him. But the reality was that Yu Xiaogang's teachings were painfully ordinary—nothing any other teacher couldn't do.

Mentioning Yu Xiaogang made Tang San's face turn even darker, his eyes brimming with killing intent. Both his teacher and father were his reverse scales—speak ill of them, and death was certain.

"Chen Xuan, killing my teacher wasn't enough for you? Now you're slandering him too. You're courting death!" Tang San's icy gaze betrayed his murderous intent, sharp as a blade.

No one noticed the subtle movement of his right hand behind his back, where three Dragon Beard Needles were clenched between his fingers.

Chen Xuan's sharp senses instantly picked up on the small action. With his heightened perception, it was impossible to miss.

Calmly, he said, "What's the matter? The truth makes you uncomfortable? If Shrek had been taught by a more capable teacher, its students would've achieved far more than they have now."

"Shut up!" Tang San erupted, his fury finally boiling over.

Chen Xuan had dared to insult his deceased teacher, taint his Xiao Wu, and trample on his pride. If he didn't kill Chen Xuan today, he'd no longer consider himself human.

A dragon has its reverse scales—touch them, and you die!

Tang San suddenly flung his hand forward, launching the three golden Dragon Beard Needles directly at Chen Xuan's vital points.

"Watch out!" Xiao Wu's expression changed, her heart tightening with fear.

Chen Xuan remained calm, his Mangekyo Sharingan already activated. Under the power of those eyes, every action slowed to a crawl. With a simple sidestep, he effortlessly dodged the incoming needles.

"First spirit skill, Blue Silver Bind!"

Golden Blue Silver Grass erupted from the ground, slithering like venomous snakes. They swiftly wrapped around Chen Xuan's legs, binding him tightly.

Almost simultaneously, Tang San unleashed another spirit skill, refusing to let any opportunity slip.

"Fourth spirit skill, Blue Silver Cage!"

The ground split open as golden Blue Silver Grass burst skyward, forming a massive cage. The dense vines blocked out the sunlight, descending to entrap Chen Xuan and Xiao Wu within.

The cage was enormous, like a wooden cabin, and effectively trapped the two of them.

"Chen Xuan, your arrogance will be your downfall. You think you're unbeatable and look down on everyone else—that's your greatest weakness." Tang San smirked, certain of his victory. From the beginning, he'd known that Chen Xuan wouldn't be easy to take down. The Dragon Beard Needles were just a feint to conceal his real attack with Blue Silver Grass.

Chen Xuan had been too confident, thinking he had everything under control. Tang San had exploited that arrogance to ensnare him.

"Chen Xuan, your first mistake was insulting my late teacher. Your second was touching my Xiao Wu. Now, you can die."

As his words fell, Tang San activated his fifth spirit skill. A shimmering blue spear materialized in his hand.

"Fifth spirit skill, Blue Silver Overlord Spear!"

The spear shot forward with terrifying speed, enhanced by the Killing God Domain. Its sharp, cold light pierced the air, aimed straight at Chen Xuan's vitals.

Tang San's face lit up with anticipation, envisioning the scene of blood and brain matter splattering everywhere—Chen Xuan impaled and lifeless in a pool of his own blood.

"Pathetic," Chen Xuan sneered, his Mangekyo Sharingan spinning as golden energy surged from his eyes.

Boom!

The spear, charged with the Killing God Domain and radiating murderous intent, exploded upon impact. It shattered under an overwhelming force, scattering into fragments in the golden light—utterly powerless.

Chapter 204: Crushing Tang San

In the forest, golden light shimmered brightly, dazzling and blinding anyone who dared to look directly at it.

As the light receded, Tang San finally saw the scene before him, and his entire body trembled. His disbelief was written all over his face.

His fifth spirit skill, Blue Silver Overlord Spear—an attack that even a Soul Douluo couldn't break—had been crushed in an instant, destroyed effortlessly by the man in front of him.

"Impossible, this is impossible!" Tang San roared internally, unable to accept this reality.

In the forest stood a massive, golden skeletal giant, its surface radiating chakra, flickering like golden flames.

It towered at seven or eight meters high, with a body made entirely of gold—even its ribs and skull gleamed like they were forged from pure metal.

"What did you do?" Tang San demanded, his voice filled with frustration and unwillingness to believe. He couldn't accept what he was seeing.

Years ago, during the Spirit Master Tournament, when he fought against the Xingluo royal family, he had witnessed this power before—a third-phase form. Back then, Chen Xuan had relied on this ability to narrowly defeat the Nether White Tiger of the Twin Spirits Sect, barely eking out a victory.

But now, this damned man had crushed his Blue Silver Overlord Spear with minimal effort. And Tang San—now a level-60 Spirit King, ten times stronger than the Nether White Tiger from back then—found this utterly unacceptable!

What Tang San didn't realize was that the strength of a technique lies not in the technique itself, but in the strength of its wielder. During the Spirit Master Tournament, Chen Xuan's spirit power had only been at level 47; comparing that to his current power was simply laughable.

If Chen Xuan were to ascend to the Six Paths level, even a casual Fireball or Wind Release would rival the might of a Title Douluo's spirit abilities.

"Tang San, I've told you before—you followed the wrong teacher. If your teacher were a Title Douluo, you wouldn't be this powerless now," Chen Xuan said as he stepped over the shattered remains of Blue Silver Grass, steadily closing the distance.

Xiao Wu's eyes sparkled as she silently watched him. He was still as strong as ever, always surprising her, always surpassing expectations.

She found it strange—Chen Xuan had ceased cultivation for five years, his spirit power stagnant. Yet his strength had not only failed to regress but had somehow advanced, becoming even more formidable.

Tang San's face darkened as he growled, "You traitor, what do you know? You'll never understand the greatness of my teacher. In this world, my teacher's abilities surpass everyone else's!"

His anger surged. Yu Xiaogang was a revered elder to him. Hearing Chen Xuan speak of his teacher in such a way ignited an unending fury within him.

He had reached his limit. There was no need to hold back anymore. Summoning his second martial spirit, the Clear Sky Hammer, he resolved to kill Chen Xuan and use his blood to honor his teacher.

"You really are a loyal dog. Even when the truth stares you in the face, you still defend Yu Xiaogang. Such devotion," Chen Xuan said with a smirk, genuinely curious if Yu Xiaogang had brainwashed Tang San to make him this obedient.

"You're crossing my bottom line. Die!" Tang San roared.

In the next moment, he erupted with fury, fully unleashing the Killing God Domain. He swung the massive, 500-pound silver hammer at Chen Xuan with no decrease in speed, aiming directly for his face.

The Clear Sky Hammer was fearsome, its black surface crackling with blue lightning. Though it weighed only 500 pounds, its strikes could unleash force exceeding a thousand pounds.

Facing the world's strongest tool spirit, Chen Xuan remained unfazed. His expression stayed calm as the Mangekyo Sharingan in his eyes surged with power, and Susanoo raised its fist to meet the hammer head-on.

Boom!

In the forest, spirit energy rippled violently. A dazzling light erupted from the collision, sending shockwaves that shook the surrounding trees.

Chen Xuan raised an eyebrow. The Clear Sky Hammer, even without spirit rings attached, had managed to withstand a punch from Susanoo's second form. It was impressive—worthy of being the continent's number one tool spirit.

But that was all it amounted to.

Chen Xuan activated his Mangekyo Sharingan further, chakra surging as golden flames danced along Susanoo's skeletal fist. Muscles and sinews grew densely over its frame, forming a massive, flesh-covered fist.

Bang!

Tang San let out a muffled groan as the enormous punch struck him. His hands, gripping the Clear Sky Hammer, trembled violently as his tiger's mouth split open, blood seeping from the wound. The blow sent him and his hammer flying, crashing through several trees before he finally stopped.

Pfft!

Tang San's face paled as he coughed up a mouthful of blood. The punch had caused minor displacement of his internal organs, leaving him injured.

His expression soured as flames of anger burned within him. If not for the Clear Sky Hammer blocking the attack, the punch would have shattered his bones. His body alone wouldn't have been able to withstand it.

"Impossible, this is impossible! How can he be stronger than me? This is absolutely impossible!" Tang San howled internally. Chen Xuan's spirit power was clearly lower than his by an entire major realm. How could he overpower him? This reality was unacceptable.

Chen Xuan deactivated his Mangekyo Sharingan, causing Susanoo to disassemble with a resounding boom. The golden giant broke apart into countless chakra particles that drifted away naturally.

Taking a step forward, Chen Xuan spoke with a hint of disdain, "Is this what they call a 'brilliant student taught by a great teacher'? What a joke—it's nothing but an empty facade."

"Shut up! You don't understand my teacher's greatness!" Tang San roared, using a tree for support as he struggled to stand.

Chen Xuan retorted, "Greatness? What greatness? Doing despicable things counts as greatness?"

He laughed, recalling his days at Shrek Academy. Yu Xiaogang's behavior had disgusted not just him, but many others. Most didn't dare resist, intimidated by Yu Xiaogang's status.

"Tang San, you ungrateful wretch! Don't forget, without my teacher's guidance, you wouldn't be where you are today. You're nothing but a traitorous ingrate—unworthy of being part of Shrek!" Tang San roared, his red eyes brimming with fury as he pointed an accusatory finger at Chen Xuan.

Xiao Wu frowned slightly, visibly upset by Tang San's words. She knew Chen Xuan better than anyone—all his abilities were the result of his own relentless training and painstaking effort. Tang San's flippant words were an insult to all of Chen Xuan's hard-earned achievements.

"Tang San, you've changed. You're no longer the third brother I once knew," Xiao Wu said coldly.

Tang San's face went pale, his body trembling. He hastily tried to explain, "Xiao Wu, it's not like that! I'm still your third brother. This traitor betrayed his teacher and his sect—I'm just upholding justice!"

"Justice? Coming from you? Don't make me laugh," Chen Xuan sneered. "You claim all my achievements are thanks to Yu Xiaogang's teachings. Then why is his personal disciple—you—so useless? Without your bloodline awakening, your Blue Silver Grass would be trash. Would you have even made it to level 50?"

"You keep praising Yu Xiaogang's greatness, but can't even name what he actually taught me. You're spouting nonsense. I'd love to know—which of my self-created spirit skills did Yu Xiaogang teach me?"

Chen Xuan's barrage of questions left Tang San speechless. For a moment, he couldn't find a single argument or reason to refute him.

Chen Xuan sneered, "Can't answer, can you? Then face reality. Stop bragging about Yu Xiaogang's so-called greatness. You're just like him—quick to accuse and full of arrogance, thinking you're some intellectual elite. Don't take yourself too seriously, pretending to be a master."

Tang San's face turned ashen, unable to respond. He felt suffocated, a deep sense of helplessness gnawing at him. For the first time, even he began to question—was his teacher truly as great as he believed?

"No, it's impossible! My teacher is always right. Even if he was wrong, it was for the good of Shrek!" He quickly reaffirmed his faith, regaining his determination. The image of his teacher loomed large in his mind once more.

Tang San's bloodshot eyes burned with renewed rage as he shouted hoarsely, "Enough! I won't let you slander my teacher any further. Chen Xuan, die!"

With a loud clang, he drew three arrows from his belt. Black mist coiled around them, dripping with foul-smelling venom.

In a flash, the three deadly arrows shot forth, coated with poison so potent that even a Title Douluo would dissolve into a pool of blood upon contact.

Chapter 205: A Rare Plea for Mercy

Tang San suddenly attacked, unleashing his hidden weapons with lightning speed, thinking he had concealed his movements perfectly. He was confident in his deception, believing Chen Xuan hadn't noticed his actions.

But in truth, Tang San had overestimated his own skills. Against Chen Xuan's extraordinary perception, everything was laid bare—every plan and tactic rendered futile.

Swish!

Three arrow-like Venom King Darts shot forth, cutting through the forest air. They carried the deadliest poison on the continent, capable of reducing even a Title Douluo to a pool of blood with the slightest touch.

"Futile," Chen Xuan said calmly, standing still without dodging, as he activated the power of his spatial martial spirit.

In an instant, the air twisted and rippled. A distorted black hole emerged, pitch-black as the void, like a tear in space. The three venomous arrows were sucked in with a single motion, disappearing into the abyss.

From the surface, the black hole seemed as thin as paper, yet even as it closed, the deadly darts, imbued with lethal poison, never emerged again. They were swallowed into an endless void.

"You… what did you do?!" Tang San's eyes widened in disbelief, unwilling to accept what he had just witnessed. His strongest trump card, his proudest hidden weapons, had been nullified effortlessly.

His face turned pale. His hidden weapons, his Blue Silver Emperor, his Clear Sky Hammer—none had worked. Now even his ultimate trump card had been countered. What did he have left?

"Not bad," Chen Xuan muttered, clenching his fist as he felt the capabilities of his spatial martial spirit. Properly used, this ability could create extraordinary effects at critical moments.

If it truly harnessed the power of space-time, then techniques like teleportation were only scratching the surface—previous limitations had been illogical.

Tang San's scarlet eyes dimmed as despair crept in. He couldn't accept it—this trash who hadn't even reached level 50 had somehow become so powerful, utterly defeating him. It was inconceivable.

"No! I'm stronger than you—I have to be!" Tang San roared, his anger surging. He would fight back, overturn the situation, and kill Chen Xuan to reclaim his pride.

He howled as he summoned the Clear Sky Hammer, the Blue Silver Emperor, and activated both the Blue Silver Domain and the Killing God Domain. From his back sprouted eight purple spider legs, his external spirit bone, dramatically increasing his attributes.

The Eight Spider Lances, with their high growth potential, instantly boosted all of his stats by 50%, and the injuries in his hands began to heal.

"Chen Xuan, you killed my teacher and took my Xiao Wu. I'll make you pay!" Tang San screamed, his hair flying wildly as he channeled all his power into the Clear Sky Hammer and Blue Silver Emperor for one final attack.

"Kill me? With just you?" Chen Xuan sneered, his Mangekyo Sharingan spinning once more. Golden energy erupted as a towering armored giant appeared, clad in radiant gold armor, as massive as a mountain, exuding an aura of absolute dominance.

Boom, boom, boom!

Nearby, towering trees and boulders exploded into dust under the giant's golden energy, disintegrating into fine powder.

"Die, Chen Xuan!"

Tang San roared furiously, leaping into the air with the murderous Clear Sky Hammer in one hand and the Blue Silver Overlord Spear in the other. He unleashed an unprecedented surge of spirit power, aiming for the golden giant in the sky.

"Lightning Release: Chidori!"

Chen Xuan formed seals with his hands, using his fourth-stage Susanoo to amplify the technique a hundredfold.

The golden-armored giant raised its hand, summoning an immense lightning storm. Thunderbolts crackled and converged into a sphere of pure energy, shining as brightly as the sun.

Zzzzt!

In the sky, lightning surged like a spearhead, erupting with destructive force and slamming downward with devastating momentum.

Tang San's eyes widened in madness as he screamed, pouring every ounce of his spirit power into resisting the incoming attack. He sought to shatter Chen Xuan's technique.

Boom!

Brilliant lightning flashed as a thunderous explosion resounded, shaking the heavens and the earth. The sheer force distorted the air, and for a moment, everything was bathed in blinding light.

In the chaos above, rampant lightning descended like wild chains, shaking the ground violently. Rows of trees disintegrated under the onslaught, reduced to ashes in the storm of electricity.

"Aaaah!"

Tang San screamed in agony, his body bloodied. The Clear Sky Hammer and Blue Silver Emperor both shattered, and his back was struck by ferocious lightning. The Eight Spider Lances exploded, severely injuring his core and leaving him writhing in pain, nearly unconscious.

His back was a bloody mess, his spine cracked, and his flesh shredded. The unbearable pain made it hard for him to breathe, and his body plummeted like a broken kite.

Thud!

Dust flew as Tang San crashed heavily into the ground, forming a deep crater. Yet despite his injuries, he struggled to rise. His wounds, though severe, weren't enough to completely incapacitate him.

"Blue Silver Domain, Endless Vitality!"

The Blue Silver Emperor's greatest strength was its unparalleled life force. Activating the Blue Silver Domain, Tang San's mangled back began to emit a blue glow, slowly regenerating his wounds.

Feeling the immense vitality of the Blue Silver Emperor, Tang San couldn't help but feel bitter. If only he had absorbed spirit beasts with life-enhancing abilities for all six of his rings, his recovery ability would have been unmatched. But regrets were useless now—his spirit rings were already fixed.

Whoosh!

Chen Xuan deactivated Susanoo and drew the last remaining blade from its sheath. Diving down from the sky, he wouldn't give Tang San any chance to recover.

Swish!

As Tang San focused on healing, a flash of brilliant blade light descended from above, cold and sharp, enveloping him completely.

Pfft!

Blood splattered as the blade's edge tore through his defenses. His chest suffered a devastating slash, his flesh mangled and blood spurting everywhere.

"Aaah!"

Tang San howled in pain, his eyes wide with shock. His chest bore a deep gash, revealing his ruptured internal organs, the sight ghastly and horrifying.

He pressed a trembling hand to his chest, feeling the warm blood coating his palms. Terror filled his heart as he realized the extent of his injuries. Without immediate treatment, death was inevitable.

His pale face reflected despair as Chen Xuan approached like a demon, his long blade glinting menacingly. Each step he took felt like a hammer striking Tang San's soul, filling him with dread.

As the shadow of death loomed closer, Tang San was overwhelmed with fear. He didn't want to die—not like this.

"No, stay back!"

Terrified, he scrambled backward, dragging his broken body across the ground, desperate to distance himself from Chen Xuan.

"If you miss Yu Xiaogang so much, I'll do you a favor and send you to him personally. So, how do you want to die?"

Chen Xuan stopped, pressing a foot down on Tang San's leg. A loud crack resounded as bones broke, eliciting a scream from Tang San, whose entire body trembled in pain.

In that moment, Tang San's face turned even paler as the suffocating grip of death enveloped him. Though filled with hatred and a desire for revenge, he now found himself the helpless prisoner.

"No, Chen Xuan, you can't kill me. This was my mistake—I shouldn't have attacked you. Let's just leave it at that!" Tang San begged, blood dribbling from his mouth. For someone as proud as him, this act of submission was exceedingly rare.

"I prefer your arrogant, self-righteous demeanor," Chen Xuan said, raising his gleaming blade and pointing it at Tang San's heart.

Tang San's face contorted in fear as he shouted desperately, "Chen Xuan, I've already returned to the Clear Sky Clan! There are countless powerful experts there, including many Title Douluo. You can't stand against them! If you kill me, they'll hunt you relentlessly!"

"Oh? You've returned to the Clear Sky Clan?"

Chen Xuan was momentarily surprised. Returning to the clan? The timing didn't match—it wasn't supposed to happen for another month. Had events progressed faster during his five years of absence?

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