Since Wu Tong unveiled his theories, the development of the Spirit Master system had progressed at an astonishing pace.
The theories of Martial Spirit evolution and the factors influencing Spirit Ring absorption limits had given the younger generation of Spirit Masters a brighter future.
After learning about the factors affecting Spirit Ring absorption limits, major factions wasted no time capitalizing on this knowledge.
Thus, all kinds of resources—strengthening medicinal baths, whale glue, training equipment, as well as the Soul-Forging Method to enhance mental power and Spirit Ascension Elixir—were lavished on their heirs. Anything that could improve physical constitution, boost spiritual strength, and avoid damaging potential was piled onto their children, all in the hopes of securing a better future for them.
As a result, the Spirit Ring absorption limits of the younger generation had risen dramatically. For example, Meng Yiran, with her 30th rank Spirit Power, was now aiming to absorb a 4,000-year Spirit Ring—a feat that, under the old system, would have required at least 40th rank Spirit Power.
This stark difference showcased the profound impact of Wu Tong's theories on the Spirit Master world, making it clear why he was held in such high esteem.
Yet, what surprised many was that while Spirit Beast age limits had changed, the plotline remained unaltered, leaving people to marvel at the whims of fate.
At this moment, faced with Meng Yiran's cold remarks, Ma Hongjun responded with his usual cheeky grin:
"What a coincidence! While it might not be as perfect a match as your Serpent Staff, my buddy's Martial Spirit is actually quite suitable for this Spirit Ring—he's a food-system Spirit Master.
As for the 4,000-year Spirit Ring, he can handle it. After all, his physical constitution isn't shabby."
Hearing this, Meng Yiran's expression darkened. Food-system Spirit Masters could indeed absorb the Phoenix-Tailed Crested Snake's Spirit Ring, and their compatibility with any Spirit Beast was inherently high.
Coupled with sufficient physical strength to withstand the Spirit Power backlash, it seemed the Shrek Academy group was a strong contender for the Spirit Ring.
The Shrek group (except for Zhu Zhuqing and Nami) grew excited at Meng Yiran's sour expression, as it meant she could no longer use the "incompatibility" excuse to pressure them into relinquishing the Phoenix-Tailed Crested Snake.
Nearby, Chao Tianxiang's face was equally grim. "Your students certainly have a way with words, Brother Zhao."
Zhao Wuji smiled faintly. "Not at all. I think Hongjun made some fair points. Don't you agree, Senior Snakewoman?"
Chao Tianxiang nearly laughed in frustration, but remembering her husband wasn't present and considering her granddaughter's safety, she suppressed her anger and forced a smile:
"Hmph, I dare not accept such flattery. So, the Unmovable King has truly decided to wage war over a mere thousand-year Spirit Beast?"
Zhao Wuji hesitated. Provoking the Dragon-Snake Duo over a Spirit Beast was unwise, but before he could deliberate further, Ma Hongjun interjected again:
"Old lady, don't exaggerate. That line suits you better. Are you really willing to antagonize Shrek Academy over a thousand-year Spirit Beast?
Let me remind you—Shrek Academy has three Spirit Sage experts, and the rest of our teachers are Spirit Emperors. Think carefully: a mere Spirit Emperor like you dares to speak to us like this? Know your place."
Zhao Wuji nearly slapped Ma Hongjun on the spot. Was this brat trying to escalate the conflict?
Smack!
Without hesitation, Zhao Wuji delivered a sharp slap. "Mind your manners! Senior Snakewoman's husband, Senior Dragongong, is a Contra-level expert. Their Martial Spirit Fusion Skill can rival a Titled Douluo. Apologize now!"
Ma Hongjun swallowed his grievances. He might be reckless, but he wasn't stupid.
A Contra was beyond their current means to provoke, let alone one with Titled Douluo-level combat prowess—even if that claim was debatable.
"Senior Snakewoman, Hongjun didn't mean it…"
As Zhao Wuji tried to smooth things over, Chao Tianxiang cut him off.
"Enough. There's no need for explanations. If neither side will yield, let's settle this according to Spirit Master tradition: let the juniors decide the Spirit Ring's ownership."
Before Zhao Wuji could respond, his expression suddenly shifted. Chao Tianxiang also tensed, both staring warily in the same direction as if facing a dire threat.
"Who's there?"
"Esteemed senior, this junior is Zhao Wuji of Shrek Academy. I humbly request your courtesy."
At their words, Meng Yiran and the Shrek group grew nervous, their gazes fixed on the depths of the forest where shadows flickered.
Rustle—
Whether from wind or footsteps, the sound grew closer, accompanied by faint voices. Soon, Wu Tong's group emerged before the two parties.
"Hm?"
The moment he appeared, Dugu Bo felt provoked by Chao Tianxiang and Zhao Wuji's wary stares. Given his status and power, any Spirit Master would normally greet him with reverence. What was with these looks?
'Damn it, I've endured enough humiliation lately. Kevin's one thing, but who do you two think you are, glaring at me like this?'
Just yesterday, Dugu Bo had been pummeled by the Kevin puppet. Though he'd claimed not to mind, that was only because he couldn't fight back—his anger had been simmering ever since.
Now, seeing the duo's expressions, his fury ignited like a lit fuse.
If it were Kevin, fine. But these two? A Spirit Emperor and a Spirit Sage daring to disrespect a Titled Douluo?
Dugu Bo was thoroughly displeased.
...
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(End of Chapter)