Fortifying the City Against the God of Slaughter, Concealing an Ambush in Soulbreak Valley

Qian Daoliu spoke slowly, his tone calm yet carrying unquestionable authority:

"Put the plan to integrate the other Three Great Elemental Academies on hold for now. Thunder Academy has the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan behind it, while Blazing Fire Academy and Godwind Academy each depend on imperial powers. Dividing our attention among multiple fronts now would cost us more than we gained. First, we must concentrate all our strength on preparing for the God of Slaughter."

A trace of gravity flashed through Bibi Dong's eyes as her fingertips traced the patterns on the Pope's Scepter:

"Unfortunately, my divine trials have only just begun, and the final trial requires an enormous amount of energy. Father is also gathering the energy I need for my breakthrough, so I cannot become a god anytime soon. The gulf in strength between gods and Soul Masters is simply too vast. Even under the restrictions imposed by the Mortal Realm's planar laws, a Second-Level God is far beyond what a Titled Douluo can withstand. How can we deal with this safely?"

Though she had embarked on her divine trials, she knew all too well the disparity between mortal combat power and that of gods, and dared not leave anything to chance.

Qian Daoliu rose and walked to the window. His gaze swept over Spirit City's sturdy walls and the lush tree of life in the distance as he continued:

"Countless interconnected Defensive Soul Tools have already been deployed inside and outside the city, and the tree of life's energy can cover the entire city. Golden Crocodile and the other Enshrinements are stationed here as well, and I will personally oversee our defenses. A Second-Level God restricted by planar laws is nothing to fear."

His gaze suddenly sharpened:

"The one we truly need to beware of