These words shocked everyone, and they exchanged incredulous glances. "What did he just say?" "Becoming Inner Court disciple is an honor that countless people would rather die than accept!"
A murmur of discussion arose, but Ma Xiaotao and Jiang Nannan, though somewhat prepared, still couldn't hide their worry—after all, how could someone who could refuse even the identity of Shrek Seven Devils care about the honor of being Inner Court disciple?
Xuan Zi shook his head helplessly and hurriedly tried to persuade him to stay, " Yuhao, don't rush off. Let me finish what I have to say."
At the same time, Jiang Nannan and Ma Xiaotao quickly stepped forward, each grabbing one of his hands, their eyes full of earnestness. Seeing this, Huo Yuhao could only sigh helplessly, "Alright, then I'll listen to what Xuan Zi has to say." Although his tone was somewhat teasing, a sly smile flashed in his eyes.
While eliminating the Evil Soul Master was one of his objectives, it was better to act alone. Once he reached Level 90, he might even be able to chase after Zhongli Wu. Even if Dragon Emperor Douluo Long Xiaoyao and Ye Xishui came, they wouldn't stand a chance against him.
Xuan Zi stood with his hands behind his back, gazing into the distance at the horizon, his voice deep and resonant. " The Douluo Continent is vast and boundless, and the conflicts between Soul Master are endless. Soul Master, despite their great power, are also prone to going astray."
Our academy does not consider itself righteous, nor does it wish to see tragedies occur due to the fighting Soul Master. Therefore, it was divided into inner and outer academies six thousand years ago.
To outsiders, it may just be a division of strength, or perhaps it's unfair to the outer court disciples, but who can truly know the pressure and responsibility that the Inner Court bears?
Xuan Zi suddenly raised his voice, his eyes blazing with fury, "When the machinery of the state cannot reach the dark corners, when the evil of Soul Master ravages the world, the Inner Court disciples must stand up! We have a more resounding title— Shrek Inspectors! Shrek Inspection Corps! I, though unworthy, am honored to hold the position of vice-captain."
He slowly walked to the front of the crowd, his piercing gaze sweeping over each young face. "Every disciple is an observer. The process of observing is not only a test of strength, but also a guidance of the mind. Shrek Academy aims to cultivate not just simple strong individuals, but talents who are willing to maintain peace and stability on the continent."
"Everyone who comes out of the Inner Court is an elite." Xuan Zi suddenly fell silent, a trace of pain flashing across his aged face. "At the same time, you must also understand that the tasks of the inspectors are extremely dangerous and difficult, and their lives are at risk at any time."
At this point, Xuan Zi suddenly looked up, tears welling in his eyes. His Adam's apple bobbed, and his voice trembled. "Many Inner Court disciples did not graduate alive. They were all good children. They fought for the ideals of the academy. The academy will remember them. Therefore, I hope you will carefully consider whether or not you want to become a member of the Shrek Inspection Corps."
"Join!!" The resounding shouts shook the fallen leaves, and a burning soul fire danced in the hearts of the youths. Xuan Zi's throat tightened, and he tremblingly raised a hand to wipe his eyes. "Good children... good children indeed... I knew I hadn't misjudged you..."
He suddenly turned to look at Huo Yuhao, his eyes filled with both expectation and trepidation. "Well, these words should be enough to keep you here, right? Join the Inner Court for the sake of the country, justice, the people, and protecting others, Huo Yuhao."
Huo Yuhao's lips curled into a slight, cool smile, his voice calm yet carrying an undeniable resolve. "I refuse."
He looked directly at Xuan Zi, his eyes calm and unwavering. "I am unwilling to bear such responsibility. As for if a Soul Master harms someone, of course I will not stand idly by; I am simply acting on my own whims."
"I am not an arrogant person. I don't have much strength. I have no obligation to give my life for others. No one can make me do something I don't want to do, and that was true before, and it will be true now and in the future."
"Although Xuan Zi is right," he paused, his gaze sweeping over the shocked crowd, "People are all different. Everyone wants to fight for justice and peace, but who has ever fought for themselves? Helping the weak and oppressed is only done within one's own power; if it threatens one's own life..."
He shook his head slightly. "For me, that would be a losing proposition. Living for glory and fame is not my style. I'm just an ordinary person."
His tone was too calm, as if he were discussing the weather, but his words felt like ice picks piercing the ears of everyone present.
Ma Xiaotao clenched her fists, Jiang Nannan hesitated to speak, and only Xiao Xiao stared wide-eyed at the familiar yet unfamiliar Huo Yuhao in disbelief. Perhaps in her eyes, Huo Yuhao should be a heroic figure, but now, however, heroes are always selfless. Huo Yuhao's eyes were as calm as the deep sea, without waves or warmth.
However, Xuan Zi suddenly smiled. He slowly walked up to Huo Yuhao, gently patted the young man's shoulder with his aged hand, and his eyes were full of approval. "What a fine 'follow your heart'! You were able to speak those words honestly just now, which makes me more gratified than those who just shout slogans."
He paused, his tone softening, " Yuhao, the Inner Court's threshold has never been a shackle imposed on people by the word 'responsibility.' What you said about 'doing what you want' perfectly aligns with our academy's core principle of 'teaching according to aptitude.' How about this—"
He took a half step back and nodded slightly to Huo Yuhao, "Just follow your own heart, I will not force you."
(Actually, it's Yuhao. Just listen to what I just said. If you do what you just said, you've already met the standard. So, just do as you say. He wouldn't want to lose such a strong student.)
These words caused an uproar. Xiao Xiao was almost speechless with shock, while Ma Xiaotao raised her eyebrows as if she had just realized something—it turned out that Xuan Zi had already seen through it all. This young man's sharp edges could never be smoothed out by preaching. Only by giving him a free sky could he willingly let his brilliance shine.
Meanwhile, on the Sea God Lake, Dai Huabin leaned against the stone railing, looking at Dai Yueheng covered in bandages, and raised an eyebrow with a light laugh, "Big brother, you look really disheveled. What happened? You also fell into that kid's hands?"
Dai Yueheng's face was ashen, the blood seeping from beneath the bandages giving it a gruesome appearance. He glared fiercely at his younger brother, his voice filled with resentful rage. "It's all because of you! That Huo Yuhao isn't human—he's a monster! Three Soul King and one Soul Emperor were easily defeated by him. Such strength..."
He suddenly approached Dai Huabin, a warning glint in his eyes. "I'm warning you, immediately abandon any thoughts about him. If you dare to make another move..." He paused, his voice extremely low, "The entire White Tiger Duke's Mansion will be buried for your foolishness!"
A lake breeze swept fallen leaves between the two of them. Dai Yueheng turned around, flicking her sleeves, the bandages billowing a pale arc in the wind.
Dai Huabin watched his retreating figure, a sinister sneer curling at the corner of his mouth, "Useless trash? Can't even handle a mere brat, and you dare to lecture me?"
A ruthless glint flashed in his eyes, a determination to achieve his goal at all costs. " Dai Yueheng, you're scared, but I won't stop here. Huo Yuhao... we'll see."
P. S.: Thank you Kiana Is the Cutest and Watashiwakamida hahaha for the monthly ticket donations, thank you for your support!