Returning to Ming Capital!

The train heading to the federal capital, Ming Capital, had been entirely chartered. Aside from the members of the Shen Family, only the four youngsters were on board.

As the Deputy Legion Commander of the North Sea Legion, Shen Yue naturally could not leave her post, but since both Shen Nanxun and Na'er were returning to Ming Capital, there was no need for Ye Li to remain behind.

"Extravagant..."

Dong Yi'an leaned back into the plush seat, sighing with emotion. "Is this the kind of luxury enjoyed by young masters of great families? An entire train to ourselves."

As a top-tier family, it was only natural for the Shen Family to travel with such accommodations, and even the train conductor had been personally selected by Shen Nanxun.

He had even specifically instructed that the train crew should not include anyone with the surname Mo, especially those whose full name consisted of only two characters.

"Look at how pathetic you are," Ye Xi scoffed lightly. "You're the son of a Legion Commander, after all; how did you end up like this?"

"That's called being frugal," Dong Yi'an said, waving his hand.

"Pfft, I call it stingy!"

"You..."

"Hmph!" Dong Yi'an tilted his head up and declared loudly, "Since you say I'm stingy, then once we reach Ming Capital, the first meal is on me!"

"I'll show you whether I'm frugal or stingy."

"Truly frugal," Shen Nanxun chimed in, sounding exceptionally impressed. "I heard that at home, you save your urine to flush away your feces. I'm impressed!"

"Hahaha!" Ye Xi burst into laughter, struggling to catch her breath.

Na'er, who had been engrossed in her Soul Guidance Communicator, scanned her collection of memes in boredom. Pouting, she said, "Shen Nanxun, do you have any abstract memes? I'm sick of using the ones I have."

Shen Nanxun reached over, took her Soul Guidance Communicator, switched it to camera mode, aimed it at Dong Yi'an sitting across from them, and pressed the shutter.

Click.

"There you go," Shen Nanxun said, handing the device back with a straight face.

Dong Yi'an: "???"

Na'er looked down, her silver eyes instantly brightening as if she had discovered a new world.

She tapped the screen rapidly, adding a line of bold text over Dong Yi'an's head in the photo: "Brother Xun is right."

She then held up the communicator to show Dong Yi'an, her cowlick swaying triumphantly.

"Haha, I've decided! Dong Yi'an, from now on, you are my personal meme library!"

This was talent—a casual snapshot turned into an abstract meme.

The journey was long, and with no heart for cultivation, one might as well do something silly.

Cough, cough, cough.

Of course, that wasn't the case. Shen Nanxun closed his eyes, reflecting on recent events. Over the past few months, Yuetian had personally sparred with them, feeding them moves. The understanding of the way of the spear held by a powerhouse of that caliber was truly formidable.

Shen Nanxun, Na'er, and Dong Yi'an—the three of them who used spears—had seen the greatest progress.

It was, at the very least, a qualitative change.

Diligent cultivation was truly not as effective as having a master feed you moves, but the prerequisite for such training was a solid foundation. Fortunately, all of them were quite capable; even Shen Nanxun, who had the weakest grasp of spear techniques, possessed a background in swordsmanship, so his physical condition was beyond reproach.

His own bloodline power could integrate seamlessly with the Golden Dragon Spear, allowing him to wield it as easily as his own arm, making the effort twice as effective.

Moreover, this Yuetian had a grand perspective. Even though he had deep ties with Shrek Academy, he hadn't said a word against Na'er attending the Sun Moon Imperial Soul Master Academy.

Of course, Guan Yue did not care about such things; he was actually supportive of Na'er going to Ming Capital. This way, he could guide her better and more conveniently.

As Na'er's teacher, this was exactly what he wanted to see.

In Guan Yue's eyes, everything else took a backseat; the only things he valued were his understanding of the spear and its legacy.

The train sped across the vast plains, the scenery outside the window gradually transitioning from the desolate expanse of the north to the prosperity of the central region.

Shen Nanxun opened his eyes and turned to look out the window. On the horizon, dyed pale gold by the afternoon sun, a city was slowly rising.

It was an ocean forged from steel. Countless skyscrapers stood like towering ancient trees, each one covered in cold, silver-gray alloy curtain walls that refracted sharp glints under the sunlight.

Elevated light rails wound through the spaces between the buildings like silver arteries, tightly wrapping around this beast of a city.

Holographic advertisements floated above every street, with colorful soul-guidance images flickering in the air. The latest soul-guidance cars, promotional videos for mecha fighting tournaments, and recruitment ads for the Sun Moon Imperial Soul Master Academy all heralded the prosperity of this city.

Above all the architecture, a massive, pure-white tower rose into the sky, piercing the clouds. The tower was octagonal, its surface engraved with dense, intricate soul-guidance array patterns, each glowing with a faint blue light. This was the headquarters of the Federal Council.

At the pinnacle of the tower, a massive federal flag snapped in the wind, the sword and shield emblem embroidered on it overlooking the entire Ming Capital. Yet, that was merely the tip of the iceberg of federal power.

In the heart of this steel forest, a vast academic district was embedded like an emerald into the silver-gray texture of the city.

Ancient clock towers stood side-by-side with modern soul-guidance laboratories, neat arrays of mechas were lined up on the training grounds, and the academy flag—depicting the sun and moon shining together—hung on both sides of the wide, tree-lined avenues. This was the Sun Moon Imperial Soul Master Academy, the second-ranked top-tier soul master institution on the continent, and one that far surpassed all other academies in the field of soul guidance.

Dong Yi'an pressed against the train window, his face nearly touching the glass. "Holy crap, is this Ming Capital?"

Although he was a descendant of a great family, for the past nine years, he had either been cultivating in the Western Legion or the North Sea Legion. He had never once set foot in this heart of the Federation.

Ye Xi's expression remained unchanged, but her ice-blue eyes couldn't help but linger on the iconic Sun and Moon towers of the academy.

Na'er looked up from her Soul Guidance Communicator, gazing at the steel beast rapidly approaching outside. Her silver eyes reflected the brilliant lights of thousands of buildings. She suddenly shoved the communicator into her pocket and turned to look at Shen Nanxun.

"Shen Nanxun, I think you should still be the one to treat us when we get home."

"Why me?"

"Because you're the host. The host has to treat the guests. That's the rule." Na'er said with righteous indignation, biting down on the last two words with extra clarity.

Ye Xi added a slow, measured strike: "Cousin, as a native of the Ming Capital, you really should fulfill your duties as a host."

Dong Yi'an was just about to chime in, but a single glance from Shen Nanxun made him swallow his words immediately. He pulled out a small notebook and pretended to be busy taking notes.

Accompanied by the sound of the Soul Guidance Train pulling into the station.

The young master of the Ming Capital has returned!

The four-year term has arrived; welcome the Dragon King home!

(Abstract)

After arriving in the Ming Capital, they did not head to the Sun Moon Imperial Soul Master Academy immediately. Shen Nanxun and Na'er went straight back to the Shen family estate.

The old Shen residence was archaic and imposing, a stark contrast to the steel-and-soul-guidance atmosphere that permeated the rest of the Ming Capital. The bluestone paths had been polished smooth by the passage of time, and ancient trees towered on both sides, sealing off the clamor of the outside world. The butler led Shen Nanxun and Na'er through the courtyard, heading straight for the study deep within. His footsteps were extremely light, and his expression held a hint of solemnity.

The closer they got to the study, the clearer the faint sound of conversation became. The voices were low and powerful, carrying the unique majesty of those in high positions, each word heavy with the gravity of the Federation's grand strategy. It was clear they were discussing matters of extreme importance.

Shen Nanxun understood immediately. His grandfather, Shen Yue, was already a pivotal figure in the military department, and with the Central Legion Commander, Yu Guanzhi, visiting, the two were undoubtedly discussing core military and Federation affairs.

Na'er also set aside her earlier playfulness, following obediently by Shen Nanxun's side, her silver eyes growing a bit quieter.

When they reached the study door, the butler bowed slightly and knocked on the door panel three times with measured force. His voice was steady: "Master, Young Master Nanxun and Miss Na'er have returned."

The conversation inside ceased abruptly. A moment later, a steady, heavy voice, carrying the majesty of one long accustomed to power, came from within. It was Shen Nanxun's grandfather, Minister of the Military Department, Shen Yue: "Come in."

The butler gently pushed the door open and stepped aside to let Shen Nanxun and Na'er pass. Once they entered, he silently closed the door and stood guard outside.

The study was furnished with simplicity yet exuded grandeur. The bookshelves were filled with classics and military dossiers, and the curling sandalwood incense helped calm the mind. Sitting in the main seat was an old man with white hair and a beard, yet he possessed a vigorous spirit. His aura was as steady as a mountain, commanding respect without anger. This was the helmsman of the Shen family, Minister of the Military Department, Shen Yue.

Beside Shen Yue sat a man in a dark military uniform. His posture was as straight as a pine, and the three stars on his shoulder boards highlighted his noble status. His face was resolute, his eyes as sharp as an eagle's, and he radiated the biting aura of a battle-hardened soldier. This was the Central Legion Commander, Yu Guanzhi.

On the table before them lay a map of the Ming Capital and the entire Federation, marked with dense, intricate notations, clearly indicating that their previous discussion had been quite profound.

Shen Nanxun took Na'er's hand and stepped forward, speaking with perfect etiquette: "Grandfather, Commander Yu."

Na'er also offered a soft greeting, looking well-behaved and entirely devoid of the mischievous energy she had shown on the train.

Shen Yue looked at his grandson, the majesty in his eyes fading slightly to reveal the warmth of an elder. When his gaze swept over Na'er, it was also kind; after all, Na'er was considered his granddaughter now, and she was a disciple personally valued by the Yuetian Douluo, Guan Yue. Her talent and status were extraordinary.

Yu Guanzhi raised his eyes to look at them. His gaze lingered on Shen Nanxun for a moment, a flash of approval crossing his eyes. He said in a deep voice: "Little Xun is back. I heard Old Shen mention you before, and seeing you now, you are truly a young talent who lives up to the Shen family's high expectations."

Shen Yue waved his hand, signaling that they need not be so formal, and spoke slowly: "It was a long journey from the North Sea. You've worked hard. I had you return to the Ming Capital early for two reasons: first, to settle in and prepare for your studies at the Sun Moon Imperial Soul Master Academy; second, there are important matters I need to entrust to you."

"Little Xun, I already know about your background. I met with Leng Yaozhu a while back. Don't worry, there's no need to pay it any mind. The Douling Empire won't be jumping around for much longer; you just need to focus on your cultivation."

The old man was imposing without being angry, especially when he said these words; his entire aura grew significantly heavier.

The Shen family were all fiercely protective of their own. To hell with the Douling Empire—if they needed to be crushed, they would be crushed. It was as simple as that.

"And little Na'er, since the Shen family has accepted you, you are my granddaughter, a member of the Shen family. In this house, there is no need for restraint. Keep things simple; we don't have those messy, complicated rules here."

"Okay."

The two youngsters responded in unison.

Seeing how sensible they were, Shen Yue nodded with satisfaction and softened his tone: "You've been traveling; go and rest for now. We'll discuss your enrollment tomorrow."

Hearing this, Shen Nanxun took Na'er's hand, bowed to the two men once more, and turned to exit the study, gently pulling the door shut behind them.

"Old Shen, you've really taken in two excellent juniors. I heard that little granddaughter was taken as a disciple by Guan Yue." Yu Guanzhi asked from the side.

Guan Yue had always been low-key, and he hadn't even told many people about taking on a disciple.

"Her talent is good." Shen Yue nodded slightly.

Yu Guanzhi said in a low voice: "Come to think of it, let them join my Central Legion in the future. Especially your eldest grandson—he just defeated Shrek Academy recently. Charity shouldn't go to outsiders, right?"

Shen Yue raised his eyelids and glanced at him upon hearing this. The two old friends had worked together in the military for decades; he knew exactly what kind of person Yu Guanzhi was. As a Central Legion Commander and one of the three big shots of the military, he had always been arrogant and rarely praised anyone easily. If he was taking the initiative to ask for someone, he truly had his eye on them.

"You certainly know how to pick your timing." Shen Yue picked up his teacup, blew away the foam, and took a slow, unhurried sip. "They just got home, their seats aren't even warm yet, and you're already eyeing them."

"Of course, I have to strike first. I saw that battle your grandson fought in Tianhai City. He has both an Angel martial soul and a unique dragon bloodline, and he was even able to single-handedly unleash a technique similar to a martial soul fusion skill to crush the Shrek Seven. Old Shen, you've been hiding this for nearly ten years; you hid it well."

Yu Guanzhi leaned in and said in a deep voice:

"I won't fight you for the granddaughter; Guan Yue's disciple is practically half a member of the War God Temple anyway. But your grandson—you have to leave a spot for him in the Central Legion no matter what. The North Sea Legion already has Shen Yue; you can't be biased to the ends of the earth."

Shen Yue did not answer immediately. He leaned back in his chair, a rare smile appearing on his aged, white-haired face.

It wasn't a smile born of being swayed by Yu Guanzhi, but one of pride. He had started from nothing to become the Minister of the Military Department, not relying on the shade of his family, but on the iron fist and blood he had forged from piles of corpses. He had seen plenty of geniuses, but this little grandson he had picked up from the seaside was the one he had been certain of from the very first glance.

Looking at it now, his judgment hadn't been wrong.

He had to admit, the only thing his good-for-nothing son had done right in his life was picking up Shen Nanxun.

Shen Father: Father, so love really does disappear, right?

"No rush." Shen Yue set down his teacup and laughed mockingly. "Your Central Legion is ranked first among all the legions in the Federation; are you really lacking one person?"

"I am, of course I am." Yu Guanzhi complained for once: "My Central Legion relies more on superior equipment; we aren't actually that strong when it comes to soul masters."

The Central Legion refused any family interference and mostly recruited commoners. Even if family disciples joined, they could only do so as commoners. To become an officer, one had to swear to sever ties with their family. Therefore, the number of high-quality soul masters wasn't that high.

"Of course you can." Shen Yue glanced at him. "Just let him be the Legion Commander."

"What's wrong with that?" Yu Guanzhi didn't care at all. "If your eldest grandson could really take over for me, I'd be overjoyed. I just hope he can grow to that level."

Shen Yue shook his head, looked out the window, and sighed in a low voice: "The waves of the Yangtze River push the ones before them. We remnants of the old era are destined to be washed away on the shore; let these juniors lead the era."

"It's just that... in the Federation's new era, some uncontrollable things should be crushed in our hands. We can't let the juniors bear that pressure."

Yu Guanzhi followed his gaze into the distance. That direction was... Shrek City!