Chapter 6. Enrollment at Shrek Academy
Several months after obtaining his third soul ring, Ye Chen suggested to Ning Rongrong that they apply to Shrek Academy. From the memories of his previous life, he knew this institution was the true "academy of monsters," where the continent's most talented and unconventional soul masters gathered. After prolonged persuasion from their daughter, Ning Fengzhi gave his consent — on the condition that they remain cautious and return immediately if anything went wrong.
The two of them traveled to Soto City in the Balak Kingdom. Shrek Academy was not located inside the city itself but on its outskirts, in a small, unremarkable village. As they approached, Ning Rongrong stopped and looked around. Ordinary peasant houses, a dusty road, and no trace of grand academy gates.
"Ye Chen… are you absolutely certain this academy is here?" she asked with visible doubt, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "It looks like an ordinary village. There are no signs of any school."
Ye Chen gave a faint smile.
"Yes, I am certain. Shrek Academy deliberately chose such a location. They call themselves the 'academy of monsters' and have no interest in ostentatious displays."
They continued along the main street of the village and soon reached a simple wooden gate adorned with the carved head of a strange green monster. A small queue of applicants had already formed in front of it. Among them stood out three figures: a handsome young man with white hair and double pupils — Dai Mubai, serving as an examiner; a slender boy with blue hair (Tang San); a sweet girl with long braids (Xiao Wu); and a cold, beautiful young woman with short black hair (Zhu Zhuqing).
The first test was the entrance fee — ten gold spirit coins per person. After payment, everyone was directed to the examiner — Dai Mubai — who handled the initial screening.
Dai Mubai lazily surveyed the newcomers. His gaze lingered noticeably on Ning Rongrong and Ye Chen — clearly not ordinary village children.
"Age and soul power level," he stated indifferently. "Under thirteen years old and at least twenty-first level. Otherwise — leave."
The age check came first. The special crystal in Dai Mubai's hand confirmed that everyone in the group was exactly twelve years old. No one exceeded the limit.
Next came the soul power test. Each applicant placed their palm on the crystal in turn.
Tang San — level 28. Xiao Wu — level 27. Zhu Zhuqing — level 27.
Dai Mubai raised an eyebrow slightly but said nothing.
Then it was Ning Rongrong's turn. She touched the crystal. A brilliant light flared: level 29.
Dai Mubai froze. His eyes widened.
"Twenty-nine? At twelve years old?"
Finally, Ye Chen stepped forward. The crystal shone even brighter: level 30.
Dai Mubai stared at them, unable to hide his astonishment. Throughout the entire enrollment period, this was the first time he had encountered applicants so young with such high soul power levels.
"You two… are from some major clan?" he asked, narrowing his eyes.
Ning Rongrong lifted her chin proudly.
"That is not important. Have we passed?"
Dai Mubai paused for a moment, then nodded.
"You have passed the first test. Proceed. The next stage is combat against me. Do not relax."
Ye Chen and Ning Rongrong exchanged glances. Nearby, Tang San observed the scene calmly, while Xiao Wu was already smiling in anticipation of interesting events. Zhu Zhuqing remained cold and focused.
None of them yet realized that in this seemingly humble academy they would encounter true monsters — and that the destinies of several among them had already begun to intertwine.