Inside the Sea God Pavilion.
Mu En reclined in an old lounge chair while Xia Ming stood quietly at his side, calmly watching the figure opposite them.
Jing Hongchen sat upright, but fine beads of sweat had already formed on his brow.
The air hung heavy as lead.
"Hallmaster Hongchen," Mu En finally said, his voice as gentle as ever, yet carrying a weight that could not be avoided.
"Have you made your decision?"
Jing Hongchen drew a deep breath.
He looked around the hall, which symbolized Shrek's highest authority.
"Elder Mu has invited me so sincerely." Jing Hongchen gave a bitter smile, carrying hints of self-mockery and relief.
"If I still failed to appreciate the favor, then I fear... I would not be leaving the Sea God Pavilion today."
He paused and turned his gaze toward Xia Ming.
This boy was only eight years old, yet he already stood here as the Sea God Pavilion's heir with the cultivation of a Soul King.
The last trace of hesitation in Jing Hongchen's heart vanished at that moment.
"I am not some blindly loyal, stubborn fool. The Sun Moon Empire has treated me well, but..."
He did not say what came next, but everyone understood his meaning.
With a monster like Xia Ming, the landscape of the Soul Master world would inevitably be reshaped within the next two centuries.
The Sun Moon Empire might possess an advantage in Soul Tool technology, but before absolute talent and power, its ambitions would ultimately be nothing but an illusion.
Thus, he rose to his feet and solemnly bowed to Mu En and Xia Ming.
"I, Jing Hongchen, am willing to join Shrek Academy."
At those words, Mu En smiled with satisfaction and slowly rose from his lounge chair.
"Welcome."
Mu En walked over to