Chapter 11: Forcing a Free Ride

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Startled by a sudden sound, Nian Yun instantly regained full awareness, his mind racing. "System, what's happening? Why didn't you warn me about such a major event?"

System: "The emergency evasion function only activates when the host faces certain death. Please remain calm."

Relieved by the system's reassurance, Nian Yun let out a breath. Noticing the signal from Xie Yue's gaze, he hurriedly saluted in response.

"Present."

"I’ve heard you possess twin martial souls?" Bibi Dong, seated on the throne, scanned Nian Yun with keen interest.

"Yes."

"In the hundred years since Douluo Continent’s founding, twin martial souls are nearly unseen. Yet now, one falls under my Spirit Hall—a true blessing from heaven, Elder Ju."

As she finished speaking, a golden figure suddenly appeared on the steps beside the main seat.

"Your Holiness," a gentle voice echoed through the hall.

Nian Yun’s face twisted slightly as he raised his head to look. The delicate bow made by the figure was so graceful he dared not meet her eyes directly. "System, is there any way to ease this discomfort?"

System: "Just get used to it."

"It seems your twin martial souls include an aggressive type, which aligns well with Elder Ju’s martial soul. I propose you become her disciple. What say you?"

"With utmost respect, I obey the will of Your Holiness."

Everyone: !

Yan’s demeanor was visibly agitated, his eyes filled with barely concealed anger.

"System, analyze the meaning behind that statement." Feeling uneasy about some hidden intention, Nian Yun grew anxious.

System: "If the host agrees, the control index will rise by 5% and continue to increase; if refused, control index decreases by 5%, but Huliena’s favor towards the host drops by 10."

"Earn a few points through hard work, only to lose ten at once!"

System: "Bibi Dong holds an excessively high status in the hearts of everyone at Spirit Academy. Refusal would not only defy the Holiness's decree but also signify a lack of ambition."

"Force-feeding comfort food, huh? I’d rather not take the bait."

Facing Bibi Dong’s conspiratorial smile, Nian Yun straightened his back. "I respectfully ask Your Holiness to withdraw this order."

As expected, Nian Yun’s sudden defiance drew all eyes.

"How dare you interrupt the Holiness!" a Platinum Bishop on the far right beneath the steps scolded sharply.

The smiles on Bibi Dong and Yue Guan’s faces vanished instantly.

System: "Host mortality rate detected at 40%."

Sensing the oppressive stares fixated on him, suffocating pressure closed in.

"My apologies for the disrespect, Your Holiness. I accept any punishment," Nian Yun bowed again, his back bending.

The Platinum Bishop below glanced at Bibi Dong, awaiting her command.

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Bibi Dong rested her slender left arm on the armrest to her left, her fair neck tilting slightly.

"Since you acknowledge your insolence, you should also understand the consequences. Still, I am curious—what is your reason for refusal?"

"The Holiness just said seven representatives will be chosen to showcase Spirit Hall’s strength across the continent. If I become Elder Ju's disciple, it may seem unfair to others. Besides, by studying within the academy, I can better understand everyone and find my place within the team."

The hall fell silent for a moment.

"You do consider fairness, which aligns with the Spirit Academy’s principles. Therefore, I will not punish you this time. However," Bibi Dong’s eyes shifted, "Twin martial souls are indeed rare. For safety, a senior steward will be assigned to keep a close watch."

"Thank you, Your Holiness."

...

Outside the Holiness Hall

Nian Yun remained at the back of the group, though the atmosphere felt strange.

Huliena glanced back at him, hesitating to speak but ultimately silent.

Yan crossed over, his eyes fixed on Nian Yun with unmistakable hatred.

"Yan acts like a schoolboy. Isn’t he tired?" Ignoring him, Nian Yun reflected. His mind had been dormant too long; now, suddenly reactivated, his energy was overwhelming.

Because Zhang Ping earned a reward in a previous test, Luster took her to claim it inside Spirit Hall. Naturally, Nian Yun climbed aboard Luster’s carriage.

As the door opened, a pair of eyes behind silver-rimmed glasses met his.

"Teacher."

After a greeting, Nian Yun sulkily got in.

"Many would dream to receive Elder Ju’s guidance, yet you choose to refuse."

The woman’s curiosity showed through her smile.

"Still, it’s good you have some self-awareness. If you’re all appearance with no substance, your fate will be bleaker."

Nian Yun said nothing, but his expression betrayed his silent defiance.

"You look dissatisfied. In two days, during the weekend break, I will conduct individual training for Xie Yue and Huliena. If you want to change my view of you, come see me."

Unnoticed by her, Nian Yun scornfully thought, "As if I care."

Meanwhile,

Inside Spirit Hall

"Does Your Holiness have further instructions?"

"Send someone to investigate his background. Also, replace the steward watching him with a Purple-Robed Bishop."

"But Your Holiness, nearly all Purple-Robed Bishops have been dispatched elsewhere. Now..."

Yue Guan, hearing the order, looked puzzled.

"Then pull one from a nearby branch hall. I want to monitor his every move."

"But Your Holiness, although he has twin martial souls, he is only a Soul Master. Disrupting our plans like this might be unwise."

*Bang!*

The scepter struck the floor sharply. Bibi Dong rose gracefully and slowly descended the steps.

*Tap tap.*

"Nian Yun must be utilized for Spirit Hall."

...

Spirit City Advanced Soul Master Academy

*Tap tap tap.*

*Bang!*

Thinking he might strengthen his bond with Huliena during training, Nian Yun did not refuse the woman’s suggestion, though he said nothing in agreement.

"Nian Yun, having Elder Ju personally instruct you is a dream for many. I didn’t expect you to be so indifferent," Xie Yue said, puzzled, as they dismounted the carriage.

"Just arrived, and the Holiness already seems to overestimate me. If I’m all show with no substance, that’s hardly good," Nian Yun replied wryly.

"Your strength does need broader recognition. Though I have no objection to that, I admit I’m a bit jealous. If you want to earn respect through power, I’ll be your first opponent."

Before Xie Yue finished, another voice came from behind:

"I’m the second."

Catching a glance from Huliena, Nian Yun was drawn in once more.

"Nian Yun! Before that, let’s start our duel."

Suddenly interrupted from his reverie, Nian Yun felt annoyed. "Yan, if you want to fight, I’m ready."

"Hahaha, good! That’s what I wanted to hear. Next week, I’ll wait for you at the Soul Arena."

Turning to Xie Yue and Huliena, Yan said, "Xie Yue, Nana, you two should come watch our match."

"Of course. Such an exciting duel—we’ll definitely be there," Xie Yue replied happily. However, Huliena’s face turned cold.

"I’ll attend your duel, but please don’t call me Nana. We’re not that close."

Yan laughed awkwardly, unsure what to say.

After a brief exchange, they all parted ways.

...

*Knock knock—*

*Bang!*

"Nian Yun, you’re back?"

Seeing Morris’s astonished face, Nian Yun wondered if more trouble awaited him.