Meeting the Three Instructors

In less than half a day, the steadily rolling carriage arrived outside Heaven Dou City. In the distance, the grand complex of Spirit Hall Academy spread out before them. Because the academy was so enormous and required ample training grounds for its students, it had not been built within the city, where every inch of land was precious, but in an open area beyond its walls. Even from afar, it looked exceptionally imposing.

Dressed in magnificent brocade robes, Xue Qinghe stood tall as he led Wang Chuan straight toward the academy gates. By academy rules, no unrelated visitors could enter without prior notice. The guards had intended to stop them, but upon recognizing His Highness the Crown Prince's retinue and face, they immediately composed themselves and lowered their heads to stand aside, scarcely daring to breathe. After all, in the vast Heaven Dou Empire, who would dare block the path of the reigning Crown Prince?

"Xiao Chuan," Xue Qinghe said, slowing his steps and turning to instruct Wang Chuan beside him, "I'll take you to meet the academy's three instructors next. All of them are Soul Douluo above level eighty, with unfathomable cultivation and great prestige within the academy. When you meet them, remember to show the proper respect of a junior. Do not forget your manners."

Wang Chuan nodded repeatedly. "I understand, Brother Xue." As he spoke, his eyes were firmly drawn to the scenery around him. Beneath his feet lay bluestone paths polished as smooth as jade, while both sides were lined with meticulously trimmed exotic flowers and plants. In the distance, pavilions and towers stood in orderly arrangement, their upturned eaves and carved brackets exquisitely crafted. Even the air carried a faint fragrance. He could not help clicking his tongue. "This place... it's truly huge and grand. It's even more luxurious than the main hall of our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect."

At his words, the corner of Xue Qinghe's lips curved almost imperceptibly, his tone carrying barely concealed mockery. "Naturally. This is the place that noble children throughout the empire flock to. They have worn fine clothes and eaten rich food since childhood—how could they endure even a little of commoners' hardship? The academy's extravagance exists merely to cater to their tastes." The faint disdain he held for the noble class spread quietly outward like ripples stirred across a lake.

"Junior Brother Xiao Chuan, look at this academy. So many people cannot settle down to cultivate, spending their days fooling around and socializing instead. The academy's atmosphere is far too frivolous." Xue Qinghe's gaze swept over the groups of students chatting idly in the distance, his tone holding clear disapproval. Then he turned to the boy beside him, speaking more sternly. "You must not grow lazy like them. Sword Douluo places the greatest value on temperament and diligence. If he learns that you have wasted your time, you will surely receive a harsh lesson."

Wang Chuan shook his head firmly. "Don't worry, Brother Xue. I know what I'm doing. Every bit of effort I put into cultivation is so that I can become stronger—strong enough to protect my family, and everything and everyone I wish to protect. I will not walk their path, nor could I." The boy's voice was not loud, yet it carried a composure beyond his years, and a trace of approval flashed through Xue Qinghe's eyes.

As they spoke, the two had already reached the entrance to the administrative office. In the distance, three white-haired old men stood waiting beneath the corridor. They were the academy's three instructors. The moment Xue Qinghe entered the administrative office grounds, their cultivation had allowed them to sense his presence, and they had come out personally to welcome him.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince honors us with your presence. Forgive us for failing to welcome you from afar." Meng Shenji, the leading elder, stepped forward with cupped hands and a smile. His eyes turned curiously toward Wang Chuan beside Xue Qinghe. "May I ask what brings Your Highness to our administrative office today?"

Xue Qinghe pulled Wang Chuan to his side and replied openly, "Chief Instructor, there is no need for such courtesy. I have specifically brought Junior Brother Xiao Chuan here to enroll today, so I have come to trouble you." He first pointed to Meng Shenji and introduced him to Wang Chuan. "This is the academy's Chief Instructor, Lord Meng Shenji. His Martial Soul is Black Demon, and he is a level eighty-eight Control System Soul Douluo with profound attainments in the control system."

He then turned toward the elder on the left. "This is Teacher Bai Baoshan. His Martial Soul is the Heavenly Star Furnace. He is a level eighty-five Assault System Soul Douluo. His body-tempering techniques, combined with his Weapon Martial Soul, are incomparably fierce."

Finally, he pointed to the gentle-looking elder on the right. "This is Teacher Zhi Lin. His Martial Soul is Azure Vine. He is a level eighty-three Control System Soul Douluo, meticulous in thought and uniquely insightful regarding the path of Soul Master cultivation."

After finishing the introductions, Xue Qinghe lightly patted Wang Chuan's shoulder. "Xiao Chuan, quickly greet the three teachers."

Wang Chuan stepped forward and bowed deeply to the three elders. His voice was respectful but unafraid. "Chief Meng, Teacher Bai, Teacher Zhi Lin, this junior is Wang Chuan. Greetings to you all."