The Worship Hall was enormous, with an exceptionally high vaulted ceiling. Sunlight slanted in through the tall windows on either side, casting a bright sheen across the floor.
The hall was utterly silent. Even the mournful howl of the wind sweeping past the eaves outside could not be heard.
Duan Fan had been waiting in the open space at the center for a while.
Twelve-year-old Duan Fan now stood five foot nine. The childishness had faded from his features, his jaw had sharpened, and he looked more handsome than ever.
Dressed in the standard black uniform of Spirit Hall Academy, the spirited confidence of youth shone through him.
He stood in the light, his shadow stretching long behind him.
Suddenly, golden light flashed inside the hall.
A tall figure appeared before Duan Fan. The aura of a Titled Douluo swept outward like a rising tide, then abruptly drew back in.
It was Golden Crocodile Douluo.
Golden Crocodile Douluo looked just as he always had: a black robe edged in gold, gray-white hair perfectly neat. His gaze traveled slowly down Duan Fan from his face, and after looking him over, he gave a slight nod.
"Level 59. Not bad."
Golden Crocodile Douluo's voice was quiet, but it echoed through the hall.
"Come. Let's see how much you've improved over the past few years."
After speaking, Golden Crocodile Douluo said no more. He turned and headed for a side door.
Duan Fan followed at a steady pace.
The two passed through an archway and descended a few stone steps, eventually arriving at an open space behind the Worship Hall.
The clearing was vast, bordered by a few old trees with dense foliage that rustled whenever the wind blew.
The ground was paved with smooth bluestone, warmed by a whole morning of sunlight