Douluo Continent: Tonight, a Fairy Tale Descends

Watching Ge Duo's actions, Ning Rongrong realized that this seemingly cold and aloof ruler was actually quite thoughtful. She put down the grass stems, jumped off the warm jade platform, and patted her skirt.

"I feel my soul power has become a little more solidified." She said in a light tone, with a hint of pride.

"Maybe next time I come, I'll be able to break through to level 20!"

Upon hearing this, Ge Duo's gaze swept over Ning Rongrong.

At level 19, the peak level, he's just one step away from level 20.

The power of the contract, like the finest roots, had already quietly spread deep within the girl's soul, influencing not only her emotional inclinations but also making her soul power flow more smoothly than that of ordinary people during cultivation.

"No rush," Ge Duo said calmly, walking over to a smooth stone bench and sitting down, her posture still carrying that lingering air of languor.

"Building a solid foundation is more important. The cultivation of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda should prioritize stability over speed."

This sounds like it's entirely from Ning Rongrong's perspective.

Ning Rongrong nodded obediently, ran to sit on the stone bench next to Ge Duo, and rested her chin on her hands: "I know, Aunt Ge Duo. Father and Grandpa Jian always say the same thing."

She paused, as if remembering something, and complained softly, "Sometimes I find cultivation so boring. It's much more interesting here with you. It's quiet and peaceful, and there are so many beautiful plants."

Gedo unconsciously twirled a dark gemstone on the hem of her skirt with her fingertips, without replying.

Quiet? Interesting?

It's just that this girl is influenced by the contract, so people find her pleasing to the eye.

Without a contract, given the capricious nature of this little princess of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School, she would probably have made a fuss about going back after only half a day in this valley where there was nothing but spring water and herbs.

But she didn't mind acting alongside this little princess who was being pulled along by invisible threads.

"If you're bored, take a look at these herbs." Ge Duo pointed to the various plants around her that were illuminated by red and blue light.

"The growth of each of them contains the laws of energy circulation, which is beneficial to Soul Masters."

"Oh." Ning Rongrong responded as if she understood, but her gaze was more focused on Ge Duo's pale yet exquisite profile.

She thought Aunt Geduo knew a lot, and she was becoming more and more pleasing to the eye.

Even though she didn't talk much and her expression was always indifferent, Ning Rong inexplicably felt very at ease being by her side, much more comfortable than facing those respectful servants and clan members who tried so hard to please her in the sect.

"Auntie Geduo, what kind of soul ring do you think I should get when I reach level 20?" Ning Rongrong leaned closer and asked in a slightly dependent tone.

Although she could consult her father and two grandfathers in the sect, she wanted to hear Ge Duo's opinion more at this moment.

Ge Duo glanced at her and saw the pure trust and expectation in the girl's eyes. She felt nothing in her heart, and even wanted to laugh a little.

This is a really useful contract.

"We'll see what your father decides then." She didn't offer any specific advice, her tone remaining calm. "The sect has its own traditions for choosing the soul rings for the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda."

“Okay.” Ning Rongrong wasn’t disappointed. On the contrary, she felt that Aunt Ge Duo didn’t interfere and respected her father’s decision.

Chapter 190 Preliminary Rounds

The valley fell silent for a moment, with only the gurgling sound of the springs flowing together.

Ning Rongrong didn't feel awkward at all. She just sat quietly next to Ge Duo, looking at the strange scene of red and blue intertwined in front of her. The faint fragrance of medicine lingered in the air, and she felt that time had slowed down.

After a while, Ge Duo spoke again: "Let's stop here for today. You should go back now. Sword Douluo should be waiting outside the valley."

Upon hearing this, Ning Rongrong's face showed a hint of reluctance, but she still obediently stood up: "Okay, then Aunt Geduo, I'll come to see you again next time."

"Hmm." Ge Duo responded lightly, watching Ning Rongrong walk towards the entrance of the valley, turning back every few steps.

Only after that pale green figure disappeared into the poisonous miasma did the faint, almost non-existent gentleness on Ge Duo's face vanish instantly, replaced by her usual indifference and calculation.

"Feelings?" Ge Duo murmured to herself, a hint of mockery in her voice.

"What a convenient thing."

Whether it's true or false.

……

Heavenly Dou Royal Academy

Lin Wan looked at Snow White standing at the door of her dormitory and was somewhat surprised.

Today she was wearing an elegant palace dress, her long golden hair was styled into a simple bun, revealing her smooth forehead and slender neck, making her look more dignified than usual.

But in those clear eyes, there was a hint of barely perceptible embarrassment and helplessness.

"Why are you here?" Lin Wan stepped aside to let her in and closed the door behind her.

They usually communicate directly through the system when they have something to discuss, so this is the first time they've come to my door like this.

Snow White entered the room, her gaze quickly sweeping over the single dormitory room belonging to the Heavenly Dou Royal Academy team.

The room was very tidy, with almost no unnecessary decorations, exuding a sense of efficiency that belonged to Lin Wan.

She took a soft breath before turning to Lin Wan, her voice still cold but carrying a hint of embarrassment: "His Majesty Xueye sent me."

Lin Wan raised an eyebrow, remaining silent and waiting for her to continue.

Snow White frowned slightly, seemingly organizing her thoughts before continuing, "He told me... to spend more time with you and maintain a good relationship."

She paused, looked up at Lin Wan, and the meaning in her pure eyes was very clear: you understand.

Lin Wan understood, of course.

He is not yet sixteen years old, but his soul power has already reached level fifty. He has led the Heavenly Fighting Team to an undefeated record in the Soul Touring Battle, and his name has already spread throughout the empire's high-ranking officials.

Emperor Xueye was neither blind nor stupid. How could he not try his best to win over such a rising star who was about to shine in the upcoming continental finals?

His most beloved daughter, who was of similar age and exceptionally talented, was undoubtedly the best bond to maintain this relationship.

Utilization? Not at all.

This is more like a tacit political investment and emotional bondage.

"So," Lin Wan said calmly, her tone revealing no emotion.

"Does His Majesty wish you to take me out for a walk?"

Snow White nodded, her embarrassment becoming more pronounced. She was kind by nature and disliked such scheming, but bearing the identity of the Princess of Tiandou, enjoying the conveniences and responsibilities that came with it, there were some things she couldn't simply refuse.

"My father suggested that I invite you to watch the preliminary rounds of the All-Continent Advanced Soul Master Academy Elite Tournament today. Our Heaven Dou region's matches are being held in the Great Soul Arena within the Imperial City."

After Snow White finished speaking, she looked quietly at Lin Wan, waiting for his response.

As the one who was summoned, she knew very well that Lin Wan wasn't very interested in these kinds of events, especially the preliminary rounds where the skill levels varied so much.

With his current strength and vision, watching those Soul Master and Great Soul Master level teams fighting like weaklings is probably no different from watching children playing house.

Lin Wan paused for a moment.

He genuinely had little interest. With the Heavenly Dou Team guaranteed a spot in the finals, the preliminaries and qualifying rounds were irrelevant to them. He was happy to have some free time and preferred to spend it cultivating or researching the system.

But he looked at Snow White, who was slightly pursing her lips. She clearly didn't like the task either, yet she had come anyway.

Her insistence out of a sense of duty, and the hint of embarrassment in her eyes, a reluctance to trouble others, eased some of his impatience.

It wouldn't hurt to go and take a look; it's a good way to relax. Besides, you might even get some inspiration from observing their fighting methods.

"Let's go." Lin Wan didn't say anything more and walked straight towards the door.

Snow White paused for a moment, seemingly surprised that he agreed so readily, then breathed a sigh of relief and quickly followed.

The two walked out of the dormitory area side by side and headed out of the college.

Along the way, occasionally some trainees cast curious and awe-inspiring glances, but they quickly looked away when they saw Lin Wan's expressionless face.

Snow White's royal status and Lin Wan's strength made their pair stand out, yet no one dared to approach them to disturb them.

The Grand Arena of Heaven Dou City was bustling with activity today.

As the most prestigious Soul Master competition on the entire continent, even the lowest-level preliminary rounds have attracted the attention of countless people and various forces.

The huge circular stadium was packed to capacity, and the deafening roar almost lifted the dome.

The appearance of Lin Wan and Snow White caused a small commotion in the VIP area.

An official immediately came forward to greet them and led them to a private spot with a great view, partially separated by a screen.

After the two sat down, servants immediately served them exquisite tea, snacks, and drinks.

On the arena, two teams were locked in fierce combat. The light of their spirit rings shone brightly, and the sounds of collisions, whooshing sounds, and the cheers of the audience mingled together, creating an incredibly exciting atmosphere.

But Lin Wan only watched for a short while before leaning back in her chair, losing interest.

In his opinion, the level of play on the field was indeed rather average.

The two teams that faced off had an average soul power of around level 35, with the highest-ranking soul master being only level 38.

The tactics were simple, the teamwork was rusty, and the use of soul skills was somewhat immature.

In his eyes, there were flaws everywhere. If he were to take the field, he wouldn't even need to use a few of his Five Soul Skills to end the battle in a short time.

This is the level of the preliminary rounds. The truly strong, such as their Heavenly Battle Team or the top academies of the Star Luo Empire, are directly guaranteed admission or easily advance, and will not waste too much energy in this early stage.

Snow White sat beside him, her posture elegant, her gaze fixed on the arena, seemingly very focused.

But Lin Wan could sense that her attention wasn't entirely on the match. Her fingers unconsciously traced the rim of her teacup, clearly indicating that she wasn't fully engaged in this level of competition.

Chapter 191 Ideas

"Feeling bored?" Lin Wan picked up her teacup, took a sip, and asked casually.

Snow White snapped out of her reverie, turned to look at him, and gently shook her head. "No. It's just...it feels a little different from what I imagined." She paused, then added, "It feels like their pace is much slower than in my daily training, and their coordination is..."

She didn't say anything more, but her meaning was clear.

Lin Wan twitched the corners of her mouth, which could be considered a smile. "That's how the qualifiers are, a mixed bag. The truly strong teams won't reveal too much of their strength here."

As they were talking, the match on the field came to a close. A team with a level 38 offensive-type Soul Master managed to defeat their opponents through sheer individual skill. The winning team members hugged and cheered excitedly on the stage, while the defeated team hung their heads in dejection, many with injuries on their faces.

The audience erupted in enthusiastic applause and cheers.

Lin Wan looked at the winning team, where the level 38 Soul Master was being surrounded by his teammates, a proud smile on his face. He suddenly felt a little bored.

These people are giving it their all for a single spot in the next round, while people like him, Snow White, and Yu Tianqing have already started from a higher point and are looking down on everything.

The world's diversity is so starkly apparent at this moment.