The next morning, Yang Podi and Xue Qinghe met again in the top-floor room of the Heaven Dou Hotel.
When Yang Podi took out the jade box containing the Cockscomb Phoenix Sunflower again, Xue Qinghe also took out a deep blue three-dimensional triangle, which was the Vast Sea Cosmic Shroud.
When the Vast Sea Cosmic Shroud was taken out, the entire room was enveloped in a deep blue light, as if one were in the ocean. Clearly, this Vast Sea Cosmic Shroud was extraordinary, seemingly possessing a higher level of power. Yang Podi even felt a somewhat familiar aura, somewhat similar to the feeling in the Slaughter City.
According to the communication, the two exchanged items. Xue Qinghe seemed a little excited as he took the Cockscomb Phoenix Sunflower box that Yang Podi had placed on the table, while Yang Podi also picked up the azure blue three-dimensional triangle on the table.
When Yang Podi took the Vast Sea Cosmic Shroud into his hand, he seemed to feel a vast ocean energy, full of gentle fluctuations, yet as majestic as the sea itself.
After observing for a while, Yang Podi directly put the Vast Sea Cosmic Shroud into his robes, then said to Crown Prince Xue Qinghe, "Your Highness, this transaction went quite well. I hope both sides are pleased."
Xue Qinghe also spoke with a smile, "Every time I trade with you, Brother Yang, we are both very happy. I hope we will have the opportunity to trade again in the future."
After communicating for a while, Yang Podi left the room, intending to go back and study the Vast Sea Cosmic Shroud more carefully.
After Yang Podi left, Xue Qinghe's smile froze, seemingly mixed with a hint of coldness.
After Xue Qinghe returned to the Crown Prince's residence, two people suddenly appeared in the room: Chrysanthemum Douluo and Snake Lance Douluo.
Xue Qinghe handed the jade box to Chrysanthemum Douluo. Chrysanthemum Douluo seemed a little excited as he accepted the jade box, and even looked a little trembling, completely lacking the majesty of a Titled Douluo.
After carefully observing the Cockscomb Phoenix Sunflower for a while, Chrysanthemum Douluo spoke to Xue Qinghe, "Congratulations, Young Master. This Immortal Herb is indeed the Cockscomb Phoenix Sunflower, a highly nourishing and pure Yang herb. After consuming it, Young Master will not only greatly increase his Soul Power, but even the power of his physical flames will be greatly enhanced."
Xue Qinghe nodded slightly, but he still asked, "What is the current strength of the Breaking Clan? Have there been any new discoveries?"
The Snake Lance Douluo beside him shook his head. "Since the Breaking Clan and the Defense Clan moved to Mount Aermo, the people of these clans have basically stayed on Mount Aermo. Those who walk below are mostly ordinary disciples, and their focus is now entirely on the Heavenly Pursuit Academy. Now they all refer to themselves as the Heavenly Pursuit Academy, instead of their original families."
"However, it is estimated that these families combined have three Titled Douluo and more than eight Soul Douluo. In terms of high-end strength alone, they have already surpassed the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect and the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan."
Xue Qinghe shook his head. "It seems there are still some clever people among these clans. Despite their strength, they've managed to stay so far away. They're probably aware of our plan."
"Alright, as long as they don't oppose us and both sides remain at peace, we shouldn't waste too much energy on them. We'll see how things go later."
After speaking, Xue Qinghe's eyes seemed to hold a Sisi of longing as he looked at the Cockscomb Phoenix Sunflower in his hand, and even felt a connection to his own Martial Soul flame. It truly lived up to its reputation as a top-grade fire-attribute immortal Immortal Herb.
At the same time, Xue Qinghe seemed to have a greater sense of apprehension towards Yang Podi. This was the only person Xue Qinghe had seen so far whose talent surpassed his own and who was even more unpredictable. In particular, his mind and decisiveness were even more unfathomable. It was unimaginable that he would give up such a precious treasure as the Cockscomb Phoenix Sunflower so easily.
When Yang Podi was about to leave Heaven Dou City, he unexpectedly encountered Ning Fengzhi and Sword Douluo, clearly indicating that the two were prepared.
Ning Fengzhi smiled and said, "Young friend Yang Podi, it's been half a year. Would you mind having a private chat?"
Yang Podi thought for a moment and then said, " Sect Master Ning is the dignified Sect Leader of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect School. Since Sect Master Ning has extended an invitation, I have no reason to refuse. Please lead the way."
Ning Fengzhi simply smiled and nodded, and then the three of them walked together to a nearby hotel, where they found a relatively quiet room to sit down.
Ning Fengzhi seemed to want to allay Yang Podi's suspicions. "Young friend, you can rest assured, this is the property of the Crown Prince's residence, and has nothing to do with our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect."
Yang Podi simply smiled and said, " Sect Master Ning is the dignified Sect Leader of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect School, so I have no reason to worry about that. May I ask what brings Sect Master Ning to invite you this time?"
Ning Fengzhi hesitated for a moment before speaking, "Young friend Yang Podi, the main reason I have taken the liberty of inviting you is to understand the attitude of your Breaking Clan towards our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect and the Spirit Hall. With your intelligence, you naturally understand the current situation."
Yang Podi merely chuckled coldly before speaking, "Our attitude towards other sects is simple: we will not attack unless attacked; if attacked, we will kill. This applies to the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect and any other force."
"Our Heavenly Pursuit Academy doesn't offend anyone, but we won't let anyone bully us either, not even the Clear Sky Sect."
Ning Fengzhi nodded. "Young friend, you are indeed quite frank. Recently, the Second Elder of the Elephant Armor Sect died in the Sunset Forest, and the entire Elephant Armor Sect is now furious. I wonder if you have heard about this?"
Yang Podi smiled before speaking, "Of course I know that. The Second Elder of the Elephant Armor Sect and two Soul Saint tried to steal our prey, but we killed them on the spot. They deserved to die. If the Elephant Armor Sect wants trouble, we're ready to serve you."
Ning Fengzhi nodded. "Young friend, you are indeed quite frank, but you seem to have forgotten that the Elephant Armor Sect is backed by the Spirit Hall. As the saying goes, even when beating a dog, one should consider its owner. Aren't you afraid of the Spirit Hall's retaliation?"
" Sect Master Ning, you are mistaken. The Spirit Hall is indeed powerful, and we do not wish to clash with the Spirit Hall. As for the mere Elephant Armor Sect, even if I could wipe it out, the Spirit Hall probably wouldn't say anything. After all, for the Spirit Hall, if one dog is lost, another can be found. They wouldn't risk a conflict with us over a mere dog, would they?"
After saying this, all three people present fell silent. Yang Podi's words were completely beyond Ning Fengzhi's expectations. After all, judging from the Heavenly Pursuit Academy's current actions, it was clear that they did not want to make enemies.
Ning Fengzhi nodded. "Young friend, you can rest assured, I will absolutely not reveal this matter to anyone."
Yang Podi shook his head. "Thank you very much, Sect Master Ning. However, there's no need to keep this a secret. Conflicts are quite normal in the Soul Master World, and I think Huyan Zhen should understand that."
Ning Fengzhi smiled before speaking, "Young friend, you certainly have a grand spirit. However, I still want to ask about your attitude towards our Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect."
Yang Podi couldn't help but sigh, "In my eyes, the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect is practically a benefactor to our Breaking Clan."
"During the battle with the Clear Sky Sect back then, our Breaking Clan and the Defense Clan fled to Heaven Dou City, and we were saved by you. Regardless of whether the Spirit Hall truly intended to exterminate us, or what your purpose was in saving us, you saved us, and at least you reduced the casualties of our clans. Our Breaking Clan has always been clear about gratitude and resentment."
"Over the years, we've come to understand Sect Master Ning's thoughts to some extent. Both my grandfather and my maternal grandfather have treated Sect Master Ning with respect, and as long as they didn't go too far, they've shown him some leniency."
"Even Sect Master Ning wanted my Self-Created Soul Skill, I didn't refuse. I just wanted Sect Master Ning's attitude, which can be considered as repayment for saving me back then."
"But sometimes, different stances mean we're not on the same path. Whether it's the Spirit Hall or the Clear Sky Sect, they are our family's enemies, and we'll settle those scores sooner or later."
Ning Fengzhi's expression seemed to turn serious at this moment. "Young friend, you are clear about right and wrong; it is I who have misunderstood all these years."
"However, young friend, the strength of both the Spirit Hall and the Clear Sky Sect is probably far beyond your imagination. For example, your grandfather and maternal grandfather would have had a very difficult time winning their ten-year duel against Qian Jun Douluo and Demon Subduing Douluo."
At this moment, Yang Podi also became serious. "So what if it's difficult to win? If my grandfather and maternal grandfather can't win, then my father will go. If my father still can't do it, then I will. Our Breaking Clan is the least afraid of battle."
Just then, the door suddenly opened, and walked in—it was his father Yang Zhentian.
Yang Zhentian, seemingly with a look of satisfaction, said, " Podi, you're right. There are no cowards among us Breaking Clan."
Yang Podi seemed delighted. "Dad, what brings you here? Have you finished your work?"
Yang Zhentian shook his head. "It's just a small matter. There was no need for me to come in person. I just happened to be passing by and wanted to take care of it. I heard that Sect Master Ning invited you, so I came to check on you."
Yang Zhentian then addressed Ning Fengzhi, saying, "Thank you for disciplining my son, Sect Master Ning Sect Master Ning. He is a child and doesn't know any better. Please forgive him."
Ning Fengzhi shook his head. "Your son is quite insightful. I have also learned something from what you said today. Young Clan Chief Yang, you have raised a fine son."
After some discussion, Yang Zhentian left with Yang Podi.
As for Ning Fengzhi, he was lost in thought, not even noticing that his tea had gone cold.
Ning Fengzhi finally spoke to Sword Douluo, " Uncle Jian, did I make a mistake? I've always wanted to unite with the Clear Sky Sect and reconcile the Breaking Clan and the Defense Clan with the Clear Sky Sect, but I overlooked the hatred between them. Now I'm pleasing neither side."
Sword Douluo shook his head. " Fengzhi, your approach wasn't wrong, but we underestimated the strength of the Breaking Clan. This Yang Podi should have already reached the Soul Saint. He probably obtained a very good Soul Beast in Sunset Forest, which attracted the covetousness of the Second Elder of the Elephant Armor Sect."
" The Elephant Armor Sect has always been domineering, and this time they've really bitten off more than they can chew. Should we spread this news?"
Ning Fengzhi shook his head. "Just as Yang Podi said, the Elephant Armor Sect is nothing special. They wouldn't dare to cause trouble for the Breaking Clan, and even the Spirit Hall wouldn't stand up for them."
"This Yang Podi reached the Soul Saint before he was even twenty years old. He probably has a bright future ahead of him and might just become the next Tang Chen."
"However, I find it a bit strange. Faced with Yang Podi's talent, the Spirit Hall actually allows him to rise to prominence. It's really unbelievable, considering that Tang Chen once dominated the Spirit Hall for an entire era."
Sword Douluo's expression changed instantly. " Fengzhi, do you perhaps believe that the Breaking Clan is colluding with the Spirit Hall?"
Ning Fengzhi said calmly, "It's not that serious. The Breaking Clan and the Spirit Hall have been fighting for their entire lives; they're practically sworn enemies. It won't be so easily resolved. I'm afraid there are secrets we don't know about."
After Yang Podi left Heaven Dou City with Yang Zhentian, Yang Zhentian asked with some doubt, " Podi, did you kill the Second Elder of the Elephant Armor Sect?"
Yang Podi nodded. "I fought a White-Eyed Devil Tiger King in Sunset Forest and brought it to the brink of death. The Second Elder of the Elephant Armor Sect probably thought he could get away with it, but I ended up killing him. Dad, is there a problem with that?"
"There's no problem. He's just the Second Elder of the Elephant Armor Sect. What difference would it make if we killed him, Huyan Zhen?"
After leaving Heaven Dou City, the two flew directly and quickly towards Mount Aermo.