Chapter 86 Flight Soul Tool, Level‑2 Soul Engineer
Even more impressive was the fact that the flight soul tool's core array could be upgraded.
From level‑2 to level‑3, level‑4, and even level‑5, each advancement increased flight speed while further decreasing soul power consumption.
Ye Chen had studied Fan Yu's design before—the most advanced in the current three empires—and its energy loss rate was 30%. That was already considered the peak. Because the energy drain was so low, even a three‑ring Soul Elder could use it efficiently.
However, the flight device described in the Universal Codex had a 10% loss at the level‑2 core array, 5% at level‑3, and even lower beyond that. While not completely lossless, it was close enough.
Another crucial factor was the conversion rate—how efficiently soul power transformed into flight speed.
Ye Chen hadn't actually tested Fan Yu's version to compare, but he was certain the design from the Codex would prove superior.
Finally, the appearance differed drastically from the bulky models of the current continent.
Typical flight soul tools looked like "jet backpacks" with foldable glider wings, but the one in the Codex resembled the hover‑style board from his previous life—just like the one the Green Goblin used in Spider‑Man.
He could stand on it while flying, and it was even capable of carrying another person—definitely a woman‑magnet device.
"This is the one."
Ye Chen made his decision.
In an instant, the full blueprint of the flight soul tool flooded into his mind.
Though only a level‑2 device, its crafting complexity was formidable.
Ordinary flight soul tools were typically crafted by advanced engineers; a level‑3 model, for example, required a level‑4 or higher soul engineer.
If a level‑3 engineer tried to craft it, the process would take over a month.
Ye Chen planned to finish his level‑2 version in three days:
one day to earn his level‑2 engineer certification,
half a day to engrave the core array,
and the remaining day and a half to shape the external structure.
"Yes, that's the plan."
With that set, he immediately threw himself into the work.
…
By dusk, Ye Chen had finally completed the engraving of his first level‑2 core array—officially marking his promotion to a Level‑2 Soul Engineer.
"Xiao Chen… it's getting late. How about some rest?"
Xian Lin'er's gentle voice came from outside, touched with concern.
She had been secretly watching him for a long time but hadn't wanted to interrupt while he worked so intently. When she saw him successfully activate a brand‑new core array, she couldn't hold back any longer.
"It's fine, teacher. I just finished a level‑2 core array. Please take a look~" Ye Chen said eagerly as he stepped out of the engraving chamber and handed it to her.
"What! You finished a level‑2 core array?!"
Her eyes widened in pure astonishment. She hurriedly accepted the array, her fingers trembling slightly.
Hadn't Ye Chen only begun learning about soul tools a few days ago? And now he was a level‑2 engineer already?!
She could hardly believe it, yet the flawless glow of the activated core array in her hands left no room for doubt. Pride welled up within her—warm, fierce, uncontainable.
Ye Chen wasn't just a genius.
He was her genius.
Her disciple, taught personally from scratch.
Unlike Yan Shaozhe, who preferred to let students self‑study, she had guided Ye Chen every step of the way—and seeing this result filled her with triumph.
"I'm particularly interested in flight soul tools," Ye Chen said honestly. "I'd like to try designing the core array for one next. I'll probably need your guidance, teacher~"
Inviting her help wasn't just for knowledge—he knew it would bring them closer too.
"Excellent~ that's my disciple!"
Instead of finding his ambition reckless, Xian Lin'er felt only admiration—and growing fondness. She was already excited by the thought that he might surprise her again.
Ruffling his hair affectionately, she smiled. "You may be gifted, but balance is key. It's already late—let's get some dinner, shall we?"
"Alright, thank you, teacher~"
Ye Chen saw sense in her words and followed without hesitation.
…
Together they left the Soul Tool Department and made their way to its luxurious dining hall.
The place was elegant, lined with private booths and finely carved furniture—completely unlike the plain student cafeterias elsewhere.
That was the difference within Shrek. Even the students' dining area in the Soul Tool branch was well‑furnished, while over in the Martial Soul Department, students often stood in line for simple rations without tables or chairs.
Limited funds—or perhaps Shrek's old philosophy: to forge strength, students must endure hardship. So the dorms were shabby and the food bare‑bones.
"Xiao Chen, order whatever you like~"
In a private booth, Xian Lin'er handed him the menu with a smile, while a polite attendant stood by the table.
The servers were all externally hired—money was no issue for the Soul Tool division, and comfort was part of the experience.
"Teacher, I'll let you order. Anything you pick is fine with me~" Ye Chen said shyly.
It was his first time enjoying such luxury at Shrek.
The Martial Soul Department's dining hall felt like a cheap snack bar.
The Soul Tool Department's? Like a five‑star restaurant.
The contrast couldn't be starker.
"Alright then. I'll have them prepare something special for you. As a core disciple, your nutritional intake must be the best~"
Xian Lin'er quickly placed their order, having already decided what to feed him.
Soon, the table filled with freshly served dishes.
Sitting close beside him, Xian Lin'er ladled a bowl of steaming broth for Ye Chen and said softly, "Here, taste this. It's ginseng‑phoenix soup, made with a century‑old root and a crowned firebird. It's excellent for strengthening your body's essence."
It wasn't just a random pick—she had personally arranged it early that morning, adjusting the recipe with extra nourishing ingredients just for him.
Compared to standard training meals, Ye Chen's was amplified twofold in benefit. It cost more than ten times as much, but she didn't mind—he was worth it.
"Thank you, teacher~"
Ye Chen leaned forward and took a small sip. The rich flavor burst across his tongue instantly.
"Well? How is it?" she asked, smiling sweetly.
"It's amazing~ delicious!"
He nodded enthusiastically and began eating in earnest.
Partly because the food truly was good—and partly because he'd worked so hard that he'd forgotten to eat all day.
Now that Xian Lin'er was treating him, he planned to enjoy every bite.
(END CHAPTER)
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