He lowered his voice. "Xue'er, do you know of the continent's hidden opportunities? Places and treasures that can drastically accelerate a soul master's growth?"
Qian Renxue nodded. "Grandfather mentioned some—Sea God Island, Slaughter City, and legendary immortal-grade medicinal herbs. But those places are extremely perilous, and the herbs are nearly impossible to find."
"I know the whereabouts of some," Dai Chengfeng said calmly.
Qian Renxue stared at him, stunned. "How… how could you possibly know?"
"Everyone has secrets, Xue'er." He squeezed her hand. "Just as I've never asked about your Angel God trials. Trust that I know of places and methods to rapidly strengthen myself. They're the key to fulfilling our five-year vow."
She studied him long and hard—then nodded. "I believe you. But wherever you go, whatever you do—promise me you'll stay safe. I won't let you risk your life for my sake."
"I cherish this life deeply," Dai Chengfeng smiled, "especially since meeting you."
They talked for hours—of cultivation, future plans, continental politics, and dreams. Dai Chengfeng realized Qian Renxue wasn't just a powerhouse; she held sharp insights into governance, economics, and the soul master system. She was no sheltered flower, but a true leader with vision.
"Actually," she said suddenly, "I've long pondered reforming the Spirit Hall. Grandfather and Father's generation prioritized authority and control. But true strength isn't domination—it's guidance. The Spirit Hall should be a beacon on the soul master's path, not a mountain crushing them."
Dai Chengfeng agreed. "A noble vision. But changing a centuries-old system is never easy."
"That's why we need timing—and power." Her eyes gleamed with resolve. "Once I complete the Angel God trials and gain influence, I can drive change from within. And you… you offer another path—external pressure to spark internal reform."
Dai Chengfeng's pulse quickened. "You mean…"
"If we work together—one inside the Spirit Hall, one outside—we can amplify our impact." Excitement colored her voice. "You prove new training methods at the Continental Tournament; I push educational reforms within. You build a formidable team; I cultivate allies here. In five years, with enough influence, we might truly reshape things."
The idea electrified Dai Chengfeng. His original goal was merely to prove himself and marry Qian Renxue—but now, they could forge a better future together.
"Then it's settled." He extended his hand. "Our five-year vow isn't just an engagement—it's the start of a revolution."
Qian Renxue clasped his hand, smiling. "Deal."
As they shared a quiet laugh, several figures entered the teahouse. A middle-aged man in Spirit Hall acolyte robes led a group of young, travel-worn soul masters.
"This mission to the Extreme North nearly killed us," one youth grumbled.
"Hush," the acolyte scolded. "We were lucky to find that ancient ruin. Couldn't penetrate deeper, but the intel will suffice for the Elders."
Extreme North? Ancient ruins?
Dai Chengfeng's ears pricked up. His memories stirred—yes, the Extreme North held critical opportunities: the Ice God's inheritance site and ancient soul master secret realms. Had the Spirit Hall discovered them too?
He glanced casually at their table, signaling Qian Renxue with his eyes. She nodded subtly—they'd both eavesdrop.
"The place was eerie," another youth muttered. "The outer ice walls absorbed soul power. Nothing we tried could breach them."
"Soul-power-absorbing ice…" The acolyte frowned. "The Elders suspect it's an ancient inheritance site—possibly even a Divine God's trial entrance. We'll need more preparation before returning."
Divine inheritance!
Dai Chengfeng's heart raced. The original novel mentioned the Ice God's legacy in the Extreme North, but details were scarce. If the Spirit Hall had found it, this was both an opportunity and danger.
Opportunity: securing the inheritance would skyrocket his strength.
Danger: the Spirit Hall was already circling it—he'd need extreme caution.
"By the way," the acolyte added, "Her Holiness takes this seriously. She's ordered more personnel to form a dedicated exploration team. Next time, a Titled Douluo may lead it."
"A Titled Douluo!" the youths gasped.
"Quiet!" the acolyte hissed. "Speak no more of this outside. Rest tonight—we report to the Hall tomorrow."
Their conversation turned mundane, but Dai Chengfeng had heard enough.
He met Qian Renxue's gaze—her eyes mirrored his calculation.
"The Extreme North…" she murmured. "Even Titled Douluos avoid its core."
"But it's brimming with opportunity," Dai Chengfeng countered. "If it's truly a God's inheritance, its value is incalculable."
Qian Renxue's eyes narrowed. "You're not thinking of…"
"Not yet." He shook his head. "I'm too weak—rushing in would be suicide. But if it's real, I'll go eventually. Just not now."
A plan crystallized. The novel barely mentioned this site—likely an undiscovered secret realm prepared for Tang San through the plot. With some preparation, he could claim it first.
But patience was key. Urgent matters awaited.
"Xue'er," Dai Chengfeng said abruptly, "I can't stay in Spirit City much longer. I must begin—build my academy, assemble my team, train. Every moment counts in these five years."
Her eyes flickered with reluctance—but she understood. "When do you leave?"
------------------------------------------------------
Join my Patreon to read a completed exclusive novel (Over 250 Chapters) + get up to 30 Chapters ahead: patreon.com/EphemeralShadow
There's something for free patrons too! Free Patrons receive 1 chapter in advance :)