Chapter 88: Release Of Emotions

Zhu Zhuqing and the Shadow Leopard were both focused on agility and speed. Their fight was more about testing each other than making direct contact. Though the Shadow Leopard was a spirit beast, its natural hunting skills had allowed it to survive in the Sunset Forest, filled with many spirit beasts.

Zhu Zhuqing, too, wasn't lacking in skill. Regularly participating in battles in the Heaven Dou City Soul Arena, which was much larger and more competitive than Soutou City, had given her ample experience. However, her current strength was still too low, having only learned the Lingbo Weibu, which limited her combat effectiveness.

Her defeat was only a matter of time.

Thanks to her enhanced abilities from the technique, Zhu Zhuqing managed to hold on for the duration of a cup of tea—a significant improvement. Just as the Shadow Leopard was about to bite her throat, Gu Yi intervened, easily restraining the beast with one hand.

"Finish it," he said.

Zhu Zhuqing looked at the beast, now helpless under Gu Yi's grip. If only she had such power. She quickly attacked, piercing the Shadow Leopard and ending its life. A purple spirit ring slowly emerged from the beast.

"This soul beast's age might be too high for you and could be dangerous. Do you want to try?" Gu Yi asked, not testing her determination but warning her of the potential risks.

"Teacher, you wouldn't let your student be in danger, right?" Zhu Zhuqing replied with a smile, then sat down without hesitation to absorb the spirit ring.

Gu Yi smiled as well, knowing she was right. He would ensure she was safe even if she encountered difficulties. As Zhu Zhuqing began the process, she soon let out a muffled groan, blood trickling from her mouth due to the powerful energy surging within her, making her breath unsteady.

Gu Yi closely monitored her condition, ready to help her absorb the spirit ring if necessary. As time passed, Zhu Zhuqing's situation gradually improved, her breath stabilizing and her aura intensifying. The most dangerous phase was over.

Relieved, Gu Yi realized Zhu Zhuqing had managed to absorb the high-level spirit ring. He had been prepared to assist if she had struggled, especially since she hadn't fully unlocked her meridians yet.

After absorbing the spirit ring, Zhu Zhuqing remained seated, meditating until she had completely integrated the energy. She finally stood up, excitement evident on her face. She had forged a new path different from her family's traditions.

"It seems the spirit ring has given you a good skill," Gu Yi remarked.

Zhu Zhuqing nodded happily. "My third spirit skill is Ghostly Possession. It increases my speed by 100% and strength by 80%, while also adding ghostly energy that causes erosion."

Demonstrating, Zhu Zhuqing summoned her martial spirit, using her third spirit ring. Her aura more than doubled, and her claws were enveloped in dark, flame-like energy.

"Use the ghostly energy on me," Gu Yi instructed, curious about its power.

"No, I can't," Zhu Zhuqing instinctively refused, fearing she might hurt Gu Yi.

Gu Yi laughed, "Do you think that with your strength you can harm me? Just do it."

Realizing her folly, Zhu Zhuqing prepared to attack. "Teacher, be careful," she warned before striking with her claws.

Gu Yi stood still, resisting with his spirit power. Zhu Zhuqing felt her claws hit an immovable wall, unable to even get close to him. Gu Yi, however, was amazed at the ghostly energy's power—it eroded and weakened his spirit power, albeit too slowly to harm him.

But this ability would be devastating against opponents of the same level, rapidly depleting their spirit power and causing significant damage.

"Excellent skill. You've truly carved a unique path. Don't let yourself be confined by your family's traditions. Your future is bright and free from the constraints of your old family and empire."

Touched by his words, Zhu Zhuqing couldn't hold back her emotions any longer, tears streaming down her face.

The next day, at Lin Family Village.

Gu Yi returned to the village with Zhu Zhuqing, who noticed the villagers' extreme reverence towards him. They seemed willing to die for him without hesitation. She wondered just how many secrets Gu Yi held, realizing she had never heard about this during her time at Shrek Academy.

Under Gu Yi's guidance, Zhu Zhuqing met their final teammate, Lin Qing.

"Master, you're finally here!" Lin Qing, in the midst of her training, sensed Gu Yi's presence and joyfully jumped into his arms, leaving Zhu Zhuqing stunned.

"Enough, Qing'er. Show some modesty," Gu Yi said, affectionately patting her head.

Noticing Zhu Zhuqing, Lin Qing didn't feel shy but examined her closely. "Is she master's wife?" she asked uncertainly.

Even Zhu Zhuqing, with her typically cold demeanor, blushed at the unexpected remark, glancing at Gu Yi.

Gu Yi almost choked on his laughter, giving Lin Qing a playful knock on the head. "Don't talk nonsense. Zhu Zhuqing is also one of my students."

Though a bit disappointed, Zhu Zhuqing lowered her head.

Lin Qing, despite being reprimanded, laughed cheerfully. "I'm sorry, Sister Zhuqing. It's just that Master has never brought anyone else here before."

"It's okay," Zhu Zhuqing replied, focusing on the fact that she was the first outsider Gu Yi had brought here.

After the laughter, Gu Yi inquired about Lin Qing's progress. "How's your cultivation?"

"I have already reached level 20, and was waiting for your arrival," Lin Qing confidently responded, having trained diligently in the meantime.

(End Of Chapter)