Douluo Continent: Tonight, a Fairy Tale Descends.

Qian Renxue stood there, her chest heaving, but ultimately she couldn't say anything. She knew that arguing any further was pointless and might only anger Bibi Dong, leading to even more uncontrollable consequences.

She gazed deeply at the indifferent figure on the throne, her eyes filled with a complex and unfathomable expression that ultimately turned into a silent, icy wasteland. She bowed again, then turned, straightened her back, and walked out of the Papal Palace step by step.

Watching Qian Renxue's departing figure, a complex light flashed in Bibi Dong's eyes. She leaned back on her throne, her fingertips unconsciously stroking the cold gemstone at the top of the scepter.

snow White……

Bibi Dong was indeed curious. She wondered what the child with Qian Renxue's bloodline would look like.

I'm curious about just how talented that child is.

She was even more curious about the impact this child's arrival would have on Qian Renxue, the Spirit Hall, and even herself.

A mixture of disgust, curiosity, and a tiny, almost imperceptible flutter of excitement that even Bibi Dong herself was unwilling to admit was gradually spreading in her heart.

"We'll see each other eventually..."

Bibi Dong's whispers echoed in the empty hall, eventually fading into silence.

Chapter 197 Lin Wan and Snow White

As the holy land of all soul masters on the continent, Wuhun City is indeed worthy of its reputation. Although it is not as prosperous and bustling as Tiandou City, nor as full of iron-blooded killing intent as Xingluo City, it has its own unique temperament of solemnity, dignifiedness, and vigorous progress.

The towering city walls were built of huge white stones, smooth as a mirror, reflecting a dazzling light in the sunlight.

The city streets were wide and clean, and well-planned. Everywhere, one could see Soul Masters dressed in the uniforms of the Spirit Hall patrolling the streets in perfect order.

The most eye-catching feature is undoubtedly the magnificent architectural complex built against the mountain in the city center—the Papal Palace, the Douluo Palace, and the Offering Palace, layer upon layer, reaching straight into the clouds, symbolizing the supreme power and strength of the Spirit Hall, inspiring awe in all who behold it.

We have been in Wuhun City for two days.

The finals of the All-Continent Elite Tournament of Advanced Soul Master Academies did not begin immediately.

As is customary, all participating teams will have a few days to adjust and adapt after arrival. Apart from the draw ceremony to determine the competition schedule, there are no other official arrangements during these days.

Therefore, the streets of Wuhun City are now filled with many young soul masters dressed in various academy uniforms, exuding a sharp and capable aura.

They came from all corners of the mainland and gathered here at this moment, curiously looking at this legendary city. The air was filled with an undercurrent of excitement and tension, unique to the eve of a major competition.

Lin Wan walked unhurriedly along a bustling commercial street in Wuhun City, her hands in her pockets.

He was dressed in a simple black outfit today, which made his figure look even more upright. Although his face was expressionless, his calm demeanor as a strong person and his outstanding appearance still attracted the attention of many passersby.

Snow White followed half a step to his side.

She changed out of her usual long, courtly dress and into a more practical, off-white casual outfit. Her long, golden hair was simply tied back, making her appear less dignified and more youthful and lively. Her clear eyes held a hint of curiosity as she surveyed the shops lining both sides of the street.

The two walked side by side. Although they didn't talk much, their natural understanding and outstanding appearance and temperament made them stand out in the crowd, like a moving landscape.

“There are a lot of people.” Lin Wan’s gaze swept across the bustling crowd on the street as she stated in a calm tone.

Snow White nodded gently: "Yes, they are all Soul Masters who came to watch the competition or participate in it."

Her voice was still cool and aloof, but it seemed more relaxed than when she was in the palace or in the carriage.

This commercial street sells a wide variety of things, including various snacks and handicrafts, but mostly items related to Soul Masters.

Weapon shops, armor shops, medicine shops, and even stalls that specialize in selling soul beast bones, furs, or special ores are everywhere.

The sounds of hawking, haggling, and Soul Masters discussing the competition and their Soul Skills mingled together, creating a lively and extraordinary atmosphere.

Lin Wan showed little interest in most things. His gaze lingered more on shops that sold rare metals or special materials. He would occasionally go in for a quick look, but would soon come out again, clearly not finding anything that could excite him.

Snow White, on the other hand, found everything novel and fascinating.

That's understandable. She came into this world as the princess of the Heavenly Dou Empire, and she had everything she needed. However, in Heavenly Dou City, most of her time was occupied by a strict training schedule.

She was either meditating in the inner palace or familiarizing herself with soul skills in the royal hunting grounds. Occasionally, she would attend court banquets. Everything she saw and heard was always orderly and proper. She had never been like this before, leisurely strolling through the bustling city streets like an ordinary girl.

Snow White's gaze was quickly drawn to a sugar-blowing stall. The stall owner was a nimble middle-aged man; with swift fingers, a small piece of warm sugar syrup was transformed into a lifelike little rabbit and a big tiger. Snow White stopped, her clear eyes fixed on the amber-colored sugar syrup, which seemed to come alive in the artist's hands.

"Want some?" Lin Wan noticed her gaze and asked casually. He wasn't interested in such sweet things, but Snow White seemed quite interested.

Snow White hesitated for a moment, then nodded gently, pointing to the newly formed, crystal-clear little swan: "That one."

Her voice carried a hint of barely perceptible expectation, as if she were afraid of being rejected, or as if she felt a little ashamed of her sudden desire, which was not in line with her princess status.

Lin Wan didn't say anything, but simply took out a few bronze soul coins and handed them to the stall owner. The stall owner happily accepted them and carefully handed the sugar swan to Snow White.

Snow White stretched out her fair fingers and carefully took it. She looked down at the delicate little swan in her palm. The syrup shimmered enticingly in the sunlight, and she could even smell a pure, sweet aroma of malt.

She hesitated for a moment, then stuck out her pink tongue and gently licked it.

So sweet.

A simple, direct sweetness, so different from the delicate but restrained flavors of the royal pastries she usually ate, exploded on her taste buds. She couldn't resist licking it again, her eyes curving slightly like two crescent moons.

She turned her head and gave Lin Wan a sweet, innocent smile: "Very sweet."

Lin Wan smiled as she looked at her satisfied expression.

Snow White seemed to have opened the door to a new world. Holding the sugar swan in one hand, she continued walking forward, her gaze drawn to the stalls selling clay figurines, painted faces, and even various strange and unusual minerals.

She stopped in front of a jewelry stall. Most of the items on the stall were not made of expensive materials, but rather bracelets and necklaces made of dyed seashells and polished ordinary stones. However, under the sunlight, they appeared colorful and had a unique rustic charm.

"Girl, take a look! These are all good stuff, and cheap!" The stall owner was a warm-hearted auntie who, seeing Snow White's extraordinary demeanor, quickly greeted her.

Snow White's gaze fell upon a bracelet made of interwoven pale blue and white seashells. Its design was simple yet refreshing. She reached out and gently touched the cool seashells.

"If you like it, just buy it." Lin Wan's voice rang out from the side. He could tell that she was somewhat tempted by the simple bracelet.

Snow White shook her head, lowered her hand, and said softly, "No need, just look."

Lin Wan glanced at her but didn't try to persuade her further. He probably understood what she was thinking. He didn't say anything more, just silently paid and took the seashell bracelet from the stall owner.

"Here you go." He handed the bracelet to Snow White.

Chapter 198 Not Hateful

Not far away, in the shadows of the crowd, a tall and slender figure stood quietly.

Bibi Dong finally couldn't resist her curiosity and came out.

She wore an inconspicuous dark purple casual outfit, with a wide hood covering most of her face, revealing only her beautifully shaped chin and a touch of pale lips. She concealed all her aura, appearing like an ordinary passerby, yet her gaze pierced through the crowd, landing precisely on the black-haired, black-eyed girl.

That's Bai Xue. Qian Renxue's daughter.

Bibi Dong looked at the girl who was bowing her head, awkwardly yet happily adjusting the cheap seashell bracelet on her wrist, her eyes filled with complex emotions.

She disliked the people of the Qian family; she disliked them to the core.

That family, which inherited the six-winged angel martial spirit, symbolized divine authority and also her unbearable past, along with Qian Renxue, who had the blood of the Qian family flowing through her veins. She had always resisted and distanced herself from it.

But when it came to the girl in front of him... Bibi Dong found that she didn't seem to be as resistant as she had imagined.

Was it because of her thick, jet-black hair, unlike the signature blonde hair of the Sen clan? Or was it because of her obsidian-like, pure black eyes, which were now gleaming faintly because of an inexpensive bracelet?

Her black hair and black eyes diluted the marks of the Qian family on her, making her look more like an independent and new individual.

One, seemingly not so closely connected to those unpleasant memories of the past.

Bibi Dong watched Snow White's eyes narrow slightly as she licked the sugar figurine, watched her curiosity about every ordinary thing on the street, and watched her walk beside the boy named Lin Wan. She didn't have the airs of a princess from the Heavenly Dou Kingdom; instead, she was just like an ordinary girl next door.

This appearance was subtly different from the image of the princess she had seen in the information she had read—a princess with exceptional talent in cultivation and a calm and obedient personality.

Is this the daughter that Qian Renxue raised?

Bibi Dong couldn't quite describe her feelings at that moment.

There was a hint of surprise, a hint of inquiry, and a very faint sense of relaxation that she herself hadn't even noticed.

At least, she doesn't look as annoying as Qian Renxue did when she was little.

Snow White was unaware that a complex gaze was fixed upon her. She put on her bracelet, quickened her pace to catch up with Lin Wan, and her mood seemed to lighten because of the small adornment on her wrist.

The two strolled around for a while longer, passing a stall selling various kinds of roasted soul beast meat. A rich aroma wafted towards them. The oil dripped onto the charcoal fire, making a sizzling sound, accompanied by an enticing caramelized fragrance.

Snow White's steps unconsciously slowed down again. The food in the palace was exquisite and nutritious; she had never tasted such rough, straightforward, and fragrant food before.

This time, Lin Wan didn't need her to ask; he simply bought two skewers of meat that were crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, sprinkled with unknown spices, and handed one to her.

Snow White took the skewer and looked at the large chunks of meat on it, unsure where to start. She carefully blew on them, then, imitating those around her, tentatively took a small bite.

The meat was firm and chewy, with a unique flavor that blended spices and charcoal, unlike anything she had ever eaten before. Although the seasoning was a bit too strong for her mild palate, the novel taste experience made her take another bite.

"Is it good?" Lin Wan had already finished half of her own skewer, and seeing her taking small bites, she casually asked.

"Mmm!" Snow White nodded vigorously, oblivious to the little bit of oil stain that accidentally got on her lips, her eyes sparkling. "It tastes different from the palace food."

Bibi Dong watched from afar as Snow White awkwardly ate her kebabs, seemingly out of place yet strangely integrated into her surroundings. She watched her eyes light up slightly with delight at the food, and the silent yet energetic boy beside her…

This scene, full of everyday life, was something she had never imagined—a scene where she would be connected with Qian Renxue's daughter.

She thought she would see a little princess, exactly like Qian Renxue, cultivated by Qian Renxue and Qian Daoliu according to a template. But what she saw instead was a girl full of curiosity about everything ordinary people do, who would even show genuine joy because of a skewer of barbecue or a cheap bracelet.

Is it because of that kid named Lin Wan? Bibi Dong's gaze swept over Lin Wan. He is indeed a rare genius. The data shows that he has a close relationship with Queen Eva and is currently the core of the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy team. Did he influence Bai Xue, causing her to show such a different side of herself?

Or is it that this is part of Bai Xue's nature, but it was suppressed by the palace and cultivation, and now that she is in this unfamiliar city, she has relaxed a little and it has naturally come out?

Bibi Dong found herself somewhat unsure.

As she watched Snow White finish her skewers, Lin Wan naturally handed her a clean handkerchief.

Snow White took it, carefully wiped her mouth and fingers, then looked up at Lin Wan, smiled, and said something. The distance was too great for Bibi Dong to hear clearly, but she could see Lin Wan nod.

Bibi Dong's fingertips unconsciously twitched beneath her wide sleeves. She suddenly remembered Qian Renxue when she was a child.

That child, who had always been strict with himself and required every action to conform to the rules, had never had such a relaxed and carefree moment.

A subtle emotion, like a pebble thrown into a still lake, rippled almost imperceptibly across the icy surface of her heart.

Is it a comparison? Or something else? She herself couldn't tell.

She simply looked at the black-haired, black-eyed girl, at the seashell bracelet on her wrist that seemed out of place with her status, at her slightly flushed cheeks from shopping for a while, and at the lingering curiosity and excitement in her eyes.

This child seems... to be somewhat different.

At least at this moment, looking at her, Bibi Dong's usual hostility and coldness towards the Qian family did not surge up as strongly as expected.

She watched quietly for a moment, and then, just as she had appeared silently, her figure vanished into the flowing crowd, disappearing without a trace. As if she had never been there at all.

On the street, Snow White seemed to sense something and subconsciously glanced in the direction where Bibi Dong had just stood, only to see a bustling, unfamiliar crowd.

"What's wrong?" Lin Wan noticed her actions.

Snow White looked away, shook her head, and gave a faint, slightly confused smile: "It's nothing, it just seemed... I felt someone was watching us. Maybe it was just my imagination."

Upon hearing this, Lin Wan sharply scanned his surroundings, but found nothing unusual or suspicious. "It's alright, let's go," he said, remaining vigilant but no longer dwelling on the matter.

"Hmm," Snow White responded, putting aside the inexplicable feeling in her heart and refocusing her attention on the bustling street.

Chapter 199 The Competition Begins

After a few days of rest, the Soul Master Competition officially began.

There is a special area within Wuhun City that was established specifically for hosting the Soul Master Tournament.

The huge circular arena, large enough to hold tens of thousands of spectators, was now teeming with people, the noise reaching the sky.

Flags from various academies fluttered in the stands, and Soul Masters and people from all over the mainland eagerly awaited this competition of the highest level among young Soul Masters.

Although Qian Renxue was disguised as Xue Qinghe on the surface, as Bibi Dong's daughter and Qian Daoliu's granddaughter, she was assigned a superb viewing spot with an excellent view.

The person sitting next to her was, of course, Snow White.

The seating arrangement was quite subtle. On one side of the platform where they were located were the seats for the high-ranking members of the Spirit Hall, and on the other side were the seats for the members of the Star Luo royal family.

Located between the Heavenly Dou and the Star Luo, yet adjacent to the core area of ​​the Spirit Hall, the implications are self-evident.

When Qian Renxue saw that elegant and powerful figure take his seat in the Spirit Hall's reserved spot, her heart sank.

Bibi Dong has arrived.

Not only did she come, but she didn't just make a symbolic appearance and leave, as she had done on some occasions in the past.

She sat there, her face beneath the purple-gold crown calm and serene, her deep purple eyes gazing down at the arena below, as if she were truly just a pope who had come to observe the ceremony.

Qian Renxue sighed inwardly and almost immediately understood what Bibi Dong was thinking.

She stayed here not to watch some boring match; her goal, from beginning to end, was only one person.

It was Snow White sitting right next to him.