บท 49: Chapter 49.

E/N : Wassup people.

I just need to announce that I won't be able to post chapters for the next two days, as I need to work overtime to earn some extra pennies. So, sorry for that.

Your Allfather Author - PrimorDious.

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The crisp cracking sound sent shockwaves through everyone present.

Boom!

In an instant, the crystal ball shattered into a pile of white crystal particles. The shattering of the crystal ball left everyone staring in disbelief.

Even the test teacher, who had overseen countless tests over the years, looked utterly perplexed. Wang Feng had shattered the crystal ball meant for measuring soul power levels below 30. The teacher couldn't comprehend how this had happened.

Wang Feng shook his head wryly and commented, "I did ask if I should really test my soul power."

His soul power had not exceeded the 30th level, it was most likely right at level 30. The crystal ball had shattered not because of his soul power's level but because of the quality and density of his soul power, which surpassed the crystal ball's capacity.

Tang San pondered privately whether the quality of soul power played a role in this unusual outcome. His own soul power, cultivated through the Mysterious Heaven Technique, differed slightly from that of ordinary soul masters as it was a genuine internal force cultivation technique. If the soul power quality exceeded certain standards, it might be too much for the crystal ball to handle.

While Tang San considered this, the others appeared surprised and puzzled, unable to fathom what they had just witnessed. Wang Feng's demonstration had exceeded their expectations.

For Ning Rongrong, the experience was filled with mixed emotions—envy, jealousy and a sense of competition. As an auxiliary type soul master, she was well aware that her soul power didn't measure up in a head-to-head comparison. However, she believed in the strength of her support abilities.

But she couldn't let Wang Feng underestimate her. She was determined to prove her worth.

Dai Mubai broke the silence, remarking, "Perhaps only the dean can provide an explanation for this."

Leaving the shattered crystal ball behind, Dai Mubai, Wang Feng and the other five candidates continued on their way to the academy's last test.

During the journey, Dai Mubai explained the academy's admission tests to the newcomers. He emphasized the importance of understanding and effectively utilizing one's martial soul. Tang San's earlier statement that "there are no waste martial souls, only waste soul masters" resonated with him.

Dai Mubai stressed the significance of martial soul application and comprehension over mere soul power and rarity of the martial soul.

Tang San nodded, recognizing the importance of martial soul applications.

Dai Mubai added, "Furthermore, the higher the soul power level, the more challenging it is to control the martial soul and soul power effectively. Focusing solely on soul power and the rarity of the martial soul won't take you far. The fourth test is designed to evaluate your combat abilities, practical combat experience, resilience in battle and your ability to harness your martial soul in unpredictable situations. It's about training us soul masters to effectively employ their power in combat."

As Dai Mubai continued, he highlighted that these principles applied to all types of soul masters, regardless of their system—power attack, agility, auxiliary or control.

While walking, Dai Mubai explained Shrek Academy's fundamental principles to the five new students, outlining its advanced and scientific educational approach within the Douluo World's context.

Xiao Wu couldn't help but ask, "With such high requirements, how many students does the academy enroll each year? It's no wonder the academy is located in a small village, it must be short of funds as Feng'ge previously mentioned."

Dai Mubai cleared his throat and with a hint of embarrassment, began to explain, "You're right. Our academy doesn't enroll many students each year. In the twenty years since its establishment, only 42 students have been accepted, averaging just over two students a year. And out of those, only fourteen have managed to graduate."

The revelation left the newcomers stunned. Ning Rongrong couldn't help but ask, "So few? Are the graduation requirements exceptionally high?"

"Of course!"

Dai Mubai responded with seriousness. "To graduate from the academy, you must reach at least level 40 before the age of 20. Many students either perish during their cultivation or in battle against soul beasts, which results in early withdrawal from the academy. Over the years, only fourteen have met the graduation requirements."

Dai Mubai continued, "But don't underestimate these fourteen graduates. Once they left Shrek Academy, they become renowned figures. The most powerful among them even became the youngest Elder of the Soul Hall, second in authority only to the Pope."

Xiao Wu exclaimed in surprise at the high graduation requirements and Wang Feng couldn't help but shake his head. Even for an institution like Shrek Academy, which accepts exceptional talents, a 30% graduation rate is extraordinarily low.

Dai Mubai added with a bitter smile, "This is why the academy faces financial difficulties. The Kingdom of Balak offered to sponsor us but the dean declined the offer because it would require loyalty to the kingdom. My family has been providing some financial support or else the academy would have gone bankrupt until now."

He continued, "Nevertheless, the dean insists on maintaining these stringent requirements. His resolve is unwavering."

Tang San, reflecting on what he had just learned, smiled and said, "The academy recommended by the teacher is truly exceptional. I consider myself fortunate to have the opportunity to attend Shrek Academy."

The others shared Tang San's sentiments. They hadn't anticipated that Shrek Academy had such a history and origin.

As Dai Mubai led the group forward, he pointed to an open clearing ahead. In the distance, they spotted a middle-aged man in his forties with a rugged appearance, dozing off in a rocking chair. It was none other than the gigachad Zhao Wuji, the Motionless Bright King .

Wang Feng furrowed his brows slightly. Zhao Wuji was a Soul Saint of over seventy levels and dealing with him could be quite challenging.

Dai Mubai approached the middle-aged man and exchanged a few words. The man roused from his slumber and stood up, revealing his imposing figure.

From a distance, the man appeared like a bear, with bulging muscles that exuded a powerful presence. Wang Feng couldn't help but think to himself, "He looks like those super-strong individuals from my previous life, with an explosively robust physique."

The man's biceps were thicker than the thighs of a young woman in her twenties.

"Hahaha, interesting! Are there five monsters above level 25 this year? Come closer, let me take a look," Zhao Wuji bellowed with a hearty laugh, waving his massive arms to beckon the newcomers.

The group exchanged glances and cautiously moved closer to the formidable Soul Saint.

Zhao Wuji greeted everyone with a warm and kind demeanor, introducing himself, "Not bad at all! My name is Zhao Wuji and I'll be your instructor for the fourth test. In previous years, I rarely saw young talents over level 25. But this year, five of you came along. I'll play with you."

He continued, "I'll give you the time it takes for an incense stick to burn. Use this time to understand and discuss your strategy. After the incense stick burns out, the test begins. If any of you can withstand my attack for the duration of the incense stick, even if it's just one person, you'll all pass."

The announcement left the newcomers stunned, prompting Dai Mubai to approach Zhao Wuji with a hushed tone of concern. He suggested, "Mr. Zhao, is it perhaps too brief? How about extending it to two incense sticks? I believe that would be more appropriate."

Dai Mubai then glanced subtly at Wang Feng. He believed that if they collaborated, Wang Feng's incredible power might make the challenge manageable.

Zhao Wuji stared at Dai Mubai, a puzzled expression crossing his face. "You think, as an old man, I can't keep up anymore? Two incense sticks? Do you think these mere five cubs require me two incense sticks?"

His tone remained resolute and uncompromising, even sounding a bit chilly.

Dai Mubai's expression shifted and he quickly withdrew his suggestion.

Xiao Wu, sensing the tension, asked, "Boss Dai, is Teacher Zhao really that formidable? Aren't we five soul master at level 25? It seems too easy to defeat him with just one incense stick worth of time."

Dai Mubai coughed before responding, "Teacher Zhao... is remarkable. His martial soul is the Vajra Bear, an extraordinarily powerful beast soul with unparalleled defensive abilities. His body is nearly flawless, making it incredibly challenging for soul masters of the same level to inflict effective damage to him. While he may appear somewhat slow, he's still relatively fast compared to his fellow soul master at the same level also."

Dai Mubai added, "His formidable offensive and defensive capabilities have rendered many soul masters helpless against him. It's almost impossible to harm him significantly. That's why he's also known as the 'Motionless Bright King'."

Xiao Wu inquired further, "He's that powerful? What's his soul power level? Is he a Soul King?"

Dai Mubai confirmed, "No, you're wrong. Teacher Zhao is not a Soul King, he is a a 70-plus-level Soul Saint. His seven soul rings grant him additional defenses and powers. You can imagine how terrifying that is. Even if you add me to the group, we might not last a minute against him."

The revelation left everyone astonished, except for Wang Feng, who had experienced similar strength.

Ning Rongrong chimed in, "From what I've heard, he's a Soul Saint. Ten years ago, Motionless Bright King Zhao Wuji had a confrontation with the Soul Hall. At that time, Soul Hall dispatched sixteen Bishops, all of whom were at least level sixty and some were even Soul Saints but they failed to capture him and many were even announced dead. But what's even more shocking is that Zhao Wuji at that time was only over level sixty. He shoul be very strong."

Dai Mubai also added, "I haven't mentioned Wang Feng yet. What I mean by is that with Wang Feng on your side, you'll have a much better chance to last an incense stick worth of time."

Ning Rongrong expressed her skepticism, "Is Wang Feng really that powerful? Remember, this is actual combat, not just about soul power levels and soul rings. As you've mentioned, understanding and applying martial soul is crucial in combat."

Tang San intervened, addressing the uncertainty, "I believe so. Dai Mubai has provided us with valuable insights. Let's introduce ourselves and get to know each other better first."

With a round of introductions ahead, the group began to share their backgrounds and experiences, all while keeping an eye on the formidable Zhao Wuji.

Tang San, Xiao Wu, Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing each introduced themselves and shared their respective soul powers and abilities and what system soul mster they belonged to. When they learned that Ning Rongrong hailed from the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda clan, they were particularly excited about having such a powerful auxiliary soul master in their midst.

Ning Rongrong proudly mentioned her ability to provide a 30% increase in strength and speed, sparking excitement among her teammates. They recognized the tremendous potential for improving their combat capabilities.

However, when they turned their attention to Wang Feng, who had been silent throughout the introductions, they became curious about his abilities. Ning Rongrong asked Wang Feng directly about his role in their group.

Dai Mubai, mistakenly assumed that Wang Feng would be the primary attacker, shared his thoughts, suggesting that Wang Feng should take on that role. This suggestion puzzled Tang San, Xiao Wu and Ning Rongrong.

In response, Wang Feng corrected the misconception and revealed that he was an auxiliary system soul master with a healing ability. He explained that his martial soul, Chaos Green Lotus, could quickly heal injuries and restore soul power, ensuring they could continue fighting as long as he remained alive and has soul power.

This revelation left everyone surprised and slightly confused. Tang San and Xiao Wu, who were familiar with Wang Feng's combat abilities, were particularly taken aback, wondering when Wang Feng's abilities had transformed in this manner.

Meanwhile, Zhao Wuji, observing the situation from a distance, recognized that Dai Mubai's suggestion to extend the challenge duration was related to Wang Feng. He decided that he wanted to first engage with Wang Feng and eliminate him quickly, if they indeed extended the test to more than one incense sticks' duration because of his healing and soul power restorative abilities.

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