Leng Yaozhu

After a period of silence, Wu Zhangkong returned to his office with Tang Wulin and Xie Xie, who had completed their information forms.

"The official holiday begins tomorrow and spans one month. Despite the break, I urge you not to neglect your soul master training," Wu Zhangkong reminded them before gesturing for them to leave. "You may return to the academy now."

During the journey back, Xie Xie couldn't hide his excitement. Although his official induction into the Tang Sect would occur after the paperwork review, Wu Zhangkong had assured him that it was a mere formality. Furthermore, the anticipated month-long vacation had finally arrived, bringing a sense of relaxation.

Patting Tang Wulin on the shoulder, Xie Xie, with the joy of the impending holiday on his face, asked, "Wulin, it's finally a break. Why do you look so gloomy? Any plans for the holiday?"

Tang Wulin, perplexed by the notion of a holiday, as his parents were away, expressed a bitter look. "I don't know, probably work and cultivation."

Surprised, Xie Xie exclaimed, "It's a holiday, and you still plan to work and practice? Balance is crucial, you know."

Tang Wulin shook his head, "Apart from work and practice, I can't think of anything else to do. Plus, my talents aren't as remarkable as yours. If I don't put in the effort, how can I close the gap?"

"Well, it seems I'll have to practice hard during the holidays to stay ahead of you," Xie Xie playfully remarked, turning to Anping and Gu Yuena in the back row. "What about you two? Any holiday plans?"

Anping responded, "No particular plans. Might just return to Glorybound City."

"I also want to go home," nodded Gu Yuena.

Throughout the journey, Xie Xie shared his vacation plans, occasionally seeking suggestions from the others.

Two days later, Anping and Gu Yuena received a morning communication from the Spirit Pagoda, instructing them to report to the pagoda. After minimal preparations, the two walked out of the academy together.

As Anping and Gu Yuena approached the entrance of the Spirit Pagoda, the Spiritual Master who had extended the initial invitation awaited them.

Quickly stepping forward upon seeing the duo, the spiritual master greeted them anxiously, "You've finally arrived. I submitted your information to the headquarters earlier, and surprisingly, I received swift feedback. A high-ranking individual visited yesterday, took notice of your profiles, and expressed a keen interest in meeting you. Follow me now."

"High-ranking individual?" Anping was puzzled.

Guiding them inside, the spiritual master cautioned, "I can't disclose much now; you'll understand later. Remember, be discreet. Answer any questions directly, and avoid causing any offense. I won't be able to protect you if you upset them."

With nods of understanding, the two followed the spiritual master, hastening their pace.

They soon reached the entrance of a room. Upon opening the door, they found themselves in an office.

Behind the desk sat a tall woman, appearing no more than thirty years old. Clad in a black uniform, she possessed a striking countenance, with her red hair cascading behind her.

Acknowledging the arrival of the spiritual master and the two recruits, the woman calmly instructed, "Leave when they're here. The rest is none of your concern."

The spiritual master, displaying caution, exited the office and closed the door.

Observing his departure, the woman rose and moved to sit on a nearby sofa. Pointing to the opposite sofa, she smiled, "Anping and Gu Yuena, right? I'm Leng Yaozhu. Feel free to sit anywhere; no need to be formal."

Gu Yuena expressed surprise, "The renowned deputy tower master of the Spirit Pagoda? The Four-Word Battle Armor Master, Heavenly Phoenix Douluo Leng Yaozhu?"

Leng Yaozhu jestingly responded, "Living well, how can I be considered a legend?"

"We greet the deputy tower master," Anping and Gu Yuena saluted.

Leng Yaozhu waved it off casually, "Sit down, everyone. No need for formalities. I came here to meet you and have a casual chat."

As they settled in, Leng Yaozhu spoke in a gentle tone, "I've reviewed your information and watched the Spirit Ascension Tower battle footage. You two are exceptionally talented. I can personally approve your induction into the Spirit Tower."

"Thank you," Anping and Gu Yuena expressed gratitude simultaneously.

Leng Yaozhu shook her head, "No need to thank me; your talents merit it. If I'm not mistaken, your recorded soul power level appears much lower than your actual capability, correct?"

Anping nodded, explaining, "Our teacher likely filled in our initial soul power levels when we entered the Spirit Ascension Platform. Perhaps, feeling we were still young, he downplayed our true soul power levels to avoid drawing excessive attention."

Leng Yaozhu acknowledged their responses and smoothly transitioned into casual conversation, "It's vacation time, isn't it? Any plans for your break?"

Anping admitted, "Haven't thought about it much. Probably just practice at home."

Gu Yuena concurred, mentioning that she had no significant plans.

Leng Yaozhu nodded, "Well, since you're not occupied during the vacation, I'd like you to accompany me to the Spirit Pagoda headquarters. There are some necessary procedures to complete, and you can receive some guidance there."

Anping and Gu Yuena readily agreed upon hearing about the trip to the Spirit Pagoda headquarters, responding with a unified "No problem."

Their enthusiasm stemmed from a twofold perspective. Anping held a persistent curiosity about the Spirit Ascension Platform technology and Soul Technology of the Spirit Pagoda. Additionally, having spent nearly a decade in this world, one of Anping's greatest desires was to explore the cultures and customs across the globe. Limited by age and strength, he had focused on gradually honing his skills within the academy.

With nothing particularly pressing during the holidays, the prospect of a new opportunity was warmly welcomed by Anping.

After some light inquiries, Leng Yaozhu escorted the pair out of the office, bidding them farewell at the entrance of the Spirit Pagoda. Smiling, she said, "Alright, I have some tasks to attend to. You can head back for now. Remember to pack your belongings, and arrive here at the same time tomorrow. I'll take you along when I depart."

The following day, Anping and Gu Yuena prepared their belongings and arrived at the Spirit Pagoda. Leng Yaozhu, the deputy tower master and the ninety-ninth level Ultimate Douluo, was already waiting. With her stature, there was no need for them to squeeze into the soul guidance bus.

Under the guidance of a spiritual master, they reached a parking lot and boarded a soul guide car. The spiritual master assumed the driver's seat, navigating them to the Eastsea City soul guide train station.

Upon arrival, Leng Yaozhu led the duo to the waiting hall. Her refined appearance garnered attention, drawing eyes along the way.

During their journey, Leng Yaozhu shared extensive information about the Spirit Pagoda, delving into its history, membership, economic and political status, and even entertaining them with amusing anecdotes.

Spirit Pagoda's headquarters, situated in Shrek City, became visible through the train window as the towering structure loomed large—the tallest building on the continent.

As the train gracefully glided into Shrek City, the towering structures gradually came into focus. These majestic towers emanated a subtle silver glow, their imposing figures reaching into the clouds—a description not mere embellishment. The summits of the towers indeed resembled sharp knives, piercing the sky like swords thrust into the clouds.

"Dear passengers, we have arrived at Shrek Station. Passengers intending to disembark, please gather your belongings and alight in an orderly manner."

With the train announcement resonating, the journey concluded as the train slowly halted at Shrek City train station.

Leng Yaozhu guided Anping and Gu Yuena off the platform, where Spirit Pagoda's reception staff awaited. The trio entered a soul guide car arranged by the Spirit Transferring Pagoda, departing from the train station toward their destination.

Shrek City lived up to its reputation as the largest city on the mainland, bustling with various soul-guiding cars, soul-guiding buses, and a throng of pedestrians. Commercial buildings adorned both sides of the road, creating a cityscape that overshadowed Eastsea City.

The soul guide car swiftly navigated through the city, reaching the Spirit Pagoda's parking lot in no time. The grandeur of the building became apparent as they arrived beneath it.

Led by Leng Yaozhu, Anping and Gu Yuena approached the Spirit Pagoda headquarters. Passing through the status level exit, Leng Yaozhu exchanged words with the staff and ushered the two inside.

While walking, Leng Yaozhu remarked, "You must be fatigued from the train journey. I'll arrange for your accommodations to ensure a good night's rest. We can discuss other matters tomorrow."

Guiding them to an elevator, Leng Yaozhu ascended to a designated floor and arranged for Anping and Gu Yuena to stay. Cautioning them not to wander, she left to attend to her duties.

After the lengthy train ride, Anping and Gu Yuena exchanged a brief good night and retreated to their respective rooms for some much-needed rest.

The following morning, Leng Yaozhu led them to breakfast and then embarked on a tour of the Spirit Pagoda's facilities. The staff they encountered along the way exhibited utmost respect toward her.

After the comprehensive tour, Leng Yaozhu guided Anping and Gu Yuena to her office. Seated across from each other, the trio settled in for a conversation, allowing Leng Yaozhu to gain a better understanding of Anping and Gu Yuena through their shared experiences.

Gazing at the pair across from her, Leng Yaozhu spoke in a gentle tone, "During our train journey, I provided you with an overview of Spirit Pagoda. Today, I took you on a tour of our headquarters. By now, I believe you have a good understanding of Spirit Pagoda. I formally extend an invitation for you to join the Spirit Pagoda. What are your thoughts?"

Anping, somewhat perplexed, responded, "Didn't we already sign an agreement back in Eastsea City?"

Leng Yaozhu smiled at Anping's question, "That agreement only pertains to the Eastsea City branch of the Spirit Pagoda. What I'm proposing now is your affiliation with the entire Spirit Pagoda organization."

"Ah, I see. I have no objections," Anping nodded in agreement.

With Anping on board, Leng Yaozhu turned her attention to Gu Yuena, asking, "And you, little girl?"

Gu Yuena replied, "I have no objections."

"Since you're on board, go ahead and sign these," Leng Yaozhu said, presenting two contracts before them. "I'll handle the other procedures. From this moment forward, you are members of the Spirit Pagoda. As junior Spiritual Masters, should you seek advancement, contributing to the Spirit Pagoda is essential."

The new contracts were notably thicker than the ones signed in Eastsea City. Anping flipped through the content, observing that while the benefits were more generous, the corresponding obligations didn't significantly increase.

Without much hesitation, Anping picked up the pen and signed his name. Gu Yuena casually flipped through the document and added her signature.

Observing them signing, Leng Yaozhu continued, "Due to your age, there won't be mandatory tasks until you reach adulthood. Your primary focus should be on enhancing your individual strength. Spiritual master training will only occur during your vacations, sparing most of your time."

Pausing momentarily, she continued, "In the coming days, you'll accompany me for training. I'll swiftly acquaint you with the Spirit Pagoda. In the afternoon, we'll conduct physical tests to tailor your cultivation plans."

"Thank you, Deputy Tower Master Heavenly Phoenix," Anping and Gu Yuena expressed their gratitude simultaneously.

In the afternoon, Leng Yaozhu led them to a room filled with advanced instruments, markedly surpassing those at Eastsea Academy.

Successive tests measured the physical and mental strength of Anping and Gu Yuena. As Leng Yaozhu reviewed the final data, she couldn't help but marvel at their exceptional talents. "You two are the most gifted children I've encountered at this age. Judging from the data, you can already withstand two two-thousand-year soul rings. I'll arrange for someone to take you to the Spirit Ascension Platform for soul ascension later."

Both Anping and Gu Yuena nodded in agreement upon hearing Leng Yaozhu's words.

The subsequent days followed a simpler routine, with daily studies under Leng Yaozhu's guidance and visits to the Ascension Platform. Anping and Gu Yuena were particularly drawn to the knowledge of artificial soul technology and the Spirit Ascension Platform. Observing their keen interest, Leng Yaozhu was pleased with the progress they were making.

More than twenty days passed, and along with their soul rings reaching the 2,000-year level, Anping and Gu Yuena gained a profound understanding of artificial souls and the Spirit Ascension Platform.

Summoning them to her office one day, Leng Yaozhu remarked, "It's been nearly a month since you arrived. I've witnessed your dedication. I'm wondering if you'd be willing to become my disciples."

The prospect of apprenticeship hung in the air. Anping and Gu Yuena exchanged glances, then simultaneously nodded and saluted, declaring, "We are willing to become your disciples, Master Leng Yaozhu."

Pleased with their response, Leng Yaozhu affirmed, "Alright, then you shall be my disciples. It's almost time for the new Academy term. Pack your belongings today; I'll take you back to Eastsea City tomorrow."

Gu Yuena inquired, "Master, what about our studies with the Spirit Pagoda in the future?"

Leng Yaozhu explained, "Originally, I hoped you could enjoy your Academy life. After all, your age is the best time for campus experiences. However, since you've brought it up, I'll arrange for the Spirit Pagoda to share their knowledge with you in Eastsea City. The person in charge there has granted permission."