Purpose

Purpose

As the sun set, a day of practical combat training came to an end. The Imperial Fighting Team's impression of Shrek had already changed—at least in Yu Tianheng's eyes, this group was far stronger than the spoiled young masters of Heaven Dou Royal Academy's second team. Especially when Yu Xiaogang introduced Oscar, this Food System Spirit Master with Innate Full Soul Power had truly earned Flander plenty of face.

Bathed in the golden afterglow, everyone was preparing to disperse. Ma Hongjun sneakily nudged Dai Mubai with his elbow, waggling his brows and making suggestive gestures. Dai Mubai, however, sternly pushed his arm away and pretended not to notice.

No one in all of Suotuo City plays around more wildly than Young Master Dai, Ma Hongjun grumbled inwardly, but his gaze was suddenly drawn to the scene not far away. Feng Yao's long fingers were still moving over the strings, as though he were cut off from the outside world. Ma Hongjun could not help exclaiming in surprise, "Damn, he hasn't really been playing here all day, has he?"

"That's right. A full six hours, aside from meals." Flander appeared behind him at some point, his eyes narrowing into slits behind his lenses. "If you had half his focus, you would have broken through to Rank Thirty long ago."

Ma Hongjun immediately put on a flattering smile. "Teacher's right." Seeing his disciple like this, Flander could not bear to criticize him further.

Sensing that the time was about right, Feng Yao habitually stopped playing as well.

The students scattered across the training ground gathered in twos and threes, chatting among themselves. Flander adjusted his glasses and watched the scene. Remembering what Yu Xiaogang had said that day, a look of despondency surfaced on his face. He feared he would never see such a sight again. Then, Flander beckoned to Dai Mubai.

"Mu Bai, take the Imperial Dou Team students to the Cafeteria. We're having an extra meal tonight." After speaking, Flander turned to Yu Tianheng and the others. "Training has been hard. I hope Shrek's humble fare will not disappoint you."

Dai Mubai nodded, walked up to the Imperial Dou Team, and made a welcoming gesture. "Everyone, this way."

Yu Tianheng returned the gesture with cupped fists. Feng Yao also approached with his zither in his arms and bowed slightly. "Thank you for having us." The tassels on his zither case swayed gently with the movement. As he leaned close to whisper to Dugu Yan, a faint scent of pine drifted through the air. "How does it feel?"

"More interesting than I expected." Dugu Yan twirled a lock of hair around her finger. "It's just that Grandmaster is overly fixated on coordination between teammates. He is practically nitpicking."

Feng Yao nodded and feigned surprise. "Is that so?"

Ma Hongjun, walking at the back of the group, immediately squeezed his way over when he heard that. "Of course! Shrek may be small, but everyone we train is an elite! Naturally, we have to be strict." As he spoke, he secretly glanced at Dugu Yan and Ye Lingling in the group.

Before Dugu Yan could roll her eyes at him in disgust, Dai Mubai grabbed Ma Hongjun by the back of his collar and dragged him back. "Stop embarrassing yourself."

Ma Hongjun struggled slightly and pursed his lips, muttering something under his breath.

The group soon arrived at the simple Cafeteria. Dai Mubai looked at the Imperial Fighting Team. "Everyone, I'll arrange your accommodations after dinner. Shrek's conditions are limited, so please excuse us."

"You're too polite," Yu Tianheng replied courteously.

Enticing aromas had already drifted out from the Cafeteria. Though Shrek's Cafeteria was simple, tonight's meal had clearly been prepared with unusual care. The long table was covered in dishes of every kind, and there was even an entire roasted lamb, golden-brown in the center.

"Wow!" Ma Hongjun's eyes lit up, and he immediately rushed inside. "We're in for a feast today!"

Dai Mubai helplessly shook his head and explained to the Imperial Fighting Team, "It isn't usually this lavish. This was specially prepared for you."

Feng Yao smiled faintly. "It seems we came at just the right time."

After several rounds of drinks, the conversation between Dai Mubai and Yu Tianheng suddenly paused in a subtle way. "You and Dugu Yan work well together. Are you two..." the blond youth asked while cutting into his roast meat, only to see the other shake his head with a bitter smile. "It's not what you think." Not far away, Ma Hongjun was animatedly recommending braised pork to Ye Lingling, but the girl merely pressed her lips together, like a snow lotus untouched by dust.

Dinner continued in a pleasant atmosphere. When the final dessert was served, Flander rose to his feet and cleared his throat. "Everyone, welcome to the Imperial Dou Team. I hope these days of exchange will benefit both sides."

Everyone applauded. Qin Ming rose on behalf of the Imperial Dou Team and offered his thanks. "Thank you to Shrek Academy for your warm hospitality. We have benefited greatly."

Moonlight had already climbed onto the window lattice. Qin Ming's toast clinked crisply against another cup, reflecting the varied expressions of those present.

After dinner, Dai Mubai led the Imperial Dou Team toward the dormitory area. Shrek's dormitories were rows of plain wooden cabins. They were not luxurious, but they were clean and tidy.

As he led them there, Dai Mubai deliberately pointed to the most secluded cabin. "Brother Feng Yao will stay here alone, so his zither playing will not disturb anyone."

"Thank you," Feng Yao said with a smile.

"Yu Tianheng, you'll share this room with Oslo. Yu Feng and the Shi Family Brothers will stay next door. Dugu Yan and Ye Lingling will stay in the innermost room. It's quieter there." Dai Mubai made the arrangements one by one.

"Thank you." Dugu Yan nodded slightly.

Ye Lingling stood behind her, her gaze sweeping over their surroundings. "It's much better than I imagined."

Dai Mubai smiled. "Shrek may be simple, but it has everything necessary. Hot water has been prepared. Everyone can wash up and rest. Gather at the training ground at seven tomorrow morning. I won't disturb your rest any longer."

As night deepened, only a dim oil lamp flickered in the wooden cabin. Feng Yao sat cross-legged, with "Fuxi" laid across his knees. His fingertips gently stroked the strings without plucking them. His eyes fell on a crystal-clear Jade Box on the table. Inside lay a jade-green herb. Strangely, three snow-white leaves grew at its center, and several droplets of water rested in the middle of those leaves, like dew left behind in the early morning, emitting faint Soul Power fluctuations.

Feng Yao had originally planned to settle down for a while after absorbing two Immortal Grade herbs, then consider absorbing the next one after returning to the academy. However, Yu Xiaogang's exchange program had disrupted his plans. But that was fine. There was something he had to try, and that was why he was taking the risk of absorbing the Full Moon Wearing Autumn Dew at Shrek.

Full Moon Wearing Autumn Dew... I wonder if it can let me reach that level... Feng Yao thought to himself.

Feng Yao took a deep breath and carefully removed the Full Moon Wearing Autumn Dew from the box. Under his control, the droplet slowly slid down into his mouth, like a star falling into the deep sea. He closed his eyes and concentrated, circulating his Soul Power as his palms grew faintly warm. In an instant, the droplet transformed into threads of icy current, and a cold, clear sensation exploded within his mind.

In that instant, his entire body trembled, as though he had been plunged into an abyss of ice ten thousand fathoms deep. The chill pierced his bones, yet carried an extraordinary clarity. His Spiritual Power seemed to be stirred by an invisible hand, and his vision abruptly broadened—even with his eyes closed, he could "see" the path of the night wind brushing past blades of grass outside, the faint Soul Power fluctuations of Spirit Masters in the distant dormitories, and even... several concealed yet powerful auras deep within Shrek Academy.

My Spiritual Power has increased tremendously... Feng Yao was inwardly shaken. His spiritual perception had actually expanded severalfold. Yet just as he immersed himself in this wondrous state, he came back to his senses and realized that his Spiritual Power was becoming faintly uncontrollable.

"Damn it... If this continues, if my Spiritual Power keeps spreading, my sea of consciousness will collapse before my body does!" Feng Yao gritted his teeth and muttered. He suddenly plucked the strings. A clear Zither Sound echoed through the room, its waves spreading outward like ripples and forcibly drawing back some of the out-of-control Spiritual Power.

Who knew how much time passed? Sweat soaked through his robes, and Feng Yao's breathing gradually steadied. He slowly opened his eyes, a flash of deep blue light passing through them before fading away. He lowered his head to look at his palm. Faint traces of moisture remained on his skin, while his Spiritual Power had become more condensed than before.

This Full Moon Wearing Autumn Dew truly is extraordinary. Still... absorbing it rashly without experience in using Spiritual Power is rather dangerous. Feng Yao turned his gaze toward the window. The night was deep, starlight spilling down as faint insect chirps came from afar.

With that thought, Feng Yao no longer hesitated. He put the "Fuxi" zither away, sat cross-legged, and quickly entered meditation.

The next morning, just as the first ray of sunlight pierced through the clouds, Feng Yao naturally woke. Without even washing up, he eagerly took out his ancient zither and touched the strings with his fingertips. "Let's test this idea," he murmured.

As the melodious Zither Sound flowed forth, Feng Yao slowly closed his eyes. His powerful Spiritual Power spread outward like ripples. Wherever the music reached, the minute Soul Power fluctuations in the air, the rhythm of grass and trees growing, even the breathing patterns of distant students—all of it was clearly reflected in his perception.

"Just as I thought!" Feng Yao abruptly opened his eyes, brilliance flashing within them. Using music as a medium and combining it with spiritual perception, he could actually perceive so many mysteries beyond the notice of ordinary people. The discovery filled him with delight.

With that thought, Feng Yao eagerly picked up "Fuxi" and followed the fragrance toward the Cafeteria.

The moment he entered, he saw an abundant array of exquisite pastries and snacks. Feng Yao could not help but smile—Flander truly had spared no expense.

At that moment, a graceful black figure quietly arrived. "Good morning, Miss Zhu Qing," Feng Yao greeted her with a smile.

"Morning." Zhu Zhuqing's response was brief, her voice cold as frost.

The two ate breakfast quietly. Before long, the Imperial Dou Team and Shrek students arrived one after another, and the previously tranquil Cafeteria immediately became lively.

When Xiao Wu appeared while supporting Tang San, Feng Yao immediately rose to greet them. Once they approached, he solemnly bowed. "Student Tang, I offended you at the spirit fighting arena the other day."

Tang San looked at the refined, jade-like youth before him with a complicated expression. Recalling his teacher's instruction from the previous night, his heart could not help but waver. Perhaps I truly chose the wrong path?

Feng Yao considerately pulled out a chair for Tang San. Every movement he made displayed noble elegance. Even the hostility in Xiao Wu's eyes faded somewhat at the sight.

During the meal, Feng Yao ate calmly, his mind clear as a mirror. At this moment, he not only held the moral high ground but had also observed every courtesy. Even someone as eccentric as Dugu Bo, or Tang Hao, who might be watching in secret, could not find the slightest fault in him.

Etiquette was order, and order could restrain oneself while also checking one's opponents. As long as Tang Hao still bore the name "Haotian," he would surely care about the glory of his sect—being named after one's Martial Soul was the highest honor within a sect.

Dugu Yan studied Feng Yao thoughtfully, a knowing smile curling at her lips. Her intuition had nearly confirmed it: Feng Yao's true target on this trip was Tang San.

Not long after, Yu Xiaogang and Shrek's other teachers arrived at the Cafeteria one after another. When they saw the lavish spread on the table, they could not help rubbing their eyes. Just as they were about to ask about it, Flander interrupted them with a light cough. Only then did the teachers understand, exchanging knowing glances.

After breakfast, the assembly bell rang on time. Everyone gathered at the training ground. Yu Xiaogang walked to Feng Yao's side and said warmly, "We're beginning practical combat training. Student Feng, I'll leave Xiao San in your care."

"It is my duty." Feng Yao bowed slightly, his smile modest.

Yu Xiaogang nodded in satisfaction. As his gaze swept over Tang San, he mused inwardly, A blessing in disguise. If Shrek can truly merge into Heaven Dou Royal Academy, there will be even more opportunities like this.

Feng Yao brought Tang San to the secluded place where he had played the zither the day before. Dappled sunlight filtered through the ancient tree, falling across their shoulders.

"Student Feng, can we talk before cultivation?" Tang San's voice carried some hesitation.

Feng Yao looked slightly surprised, then nodded gently. "Of course. Exchange and friendly sparring are the purpose of this trip."

Tang San fell silent for a moment before finally voicing the confusion in his heart. "In your view, are Hidden Weapons truly worthless?"

So his conviction has wavered. He's starting to doubt his whole life, Feng Yao understood inwardly, though a faint smile remained on his face. "Student Tang, Hidden Weapons is a fitting name. Though their methods are exquisitely ingenious..." He casually picked up a pebble. "They are ultimately only a means."

A trace of Soul Power left his hand, and the pebble shot through the air like a meteor, embedding itself deeply in a tree trunk thirty meters away.

"Methods can be practiced at any time, but a Spirit Master's cultivation..." Feng Yao turned and looked directly at Tang San, his gaze sharp. "The golden period lasts only a dozen or so years. Brother Tang seeks too much and tries to master everything, only to neglect the fundamentals."

Feng Yao brushed the strings with his fingertips and continued, "If you had abundant Soul Power as your foundation, supplemented by Student Tang's exquisite techniques, why would you fear being unable to defeat an opponent in a single strike?" The Zither Sound paused slightly. "Besides, with Student Tang's mastery of Hidden Weapons, what difficulty would a moving target pose? Why insist on limiting the Blue Silver Grass to the Control System?"

Tang San fell into thought. Feng Yao was indeed making a great deal of sense. But then, what direction should he take?

"Then in Student Feng's opinion, what path should I follow? With a Martial Soul like Blue Silver Grass, it seems there is no use for it beyond control."

Feng Yao shook his head with a light laugh. "In my view, Student Tang is more suited than I am to follow the path of extremes." He pointed toward the towering ancient tree in the distance. "Plant-type Spirit Beasts generally possess immense Soul Power. If Student Tang had followed the same path as I did that night, combined with the advantages of Hidden Weapons, the outcome would still have been uncertain."

Then his tone shifted. "However, relying on the advantages of Hidden Weapons harms Student Tang's reputation. Unless absolutely necessary, it would be best to use that method less often. With abundant Soul Power, Blue Silver Grass can display its most fundamental trait: its incomparably powerful vitality. Student Tang must understand—" He looked meaningfully at Tang San. "What suits you is what is best. Now that your path has already taken shape, the road Grandmaster planned for you is not an unwise choice either."

A blueprint painted by Feng Yao appeared in Tang San's mind. For a moment, he not only began to doubt himself, but even began to doubt his own teacher.