Upon hearing that Su Ming had defeated the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan's leader, Yu Yuanzhen, both Daming and Er Ming were stunned. While they had limited interactions with the outside world, they knew the strength of the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan well. Yu Yuanzhen was rumored to be a Super Douluo with a unique treasure capable of temporarily boosting his strength to level 99. Er Ming wasn't as intrigued, but Daming, with his own dragon bloodline, felt a strong curiosity and was tempted to ask Su Ming if he could take a closer look at the artifact.
Su Ming, who had a soul contract with Daming, sensed his thoughts and gave a slight, almost imperceptible nod. This surprised Daming, who marveled at the mental connection enabled by the soul spirit contract—a truly fascinating ability.
Meanwhile, Yang Wudi hovered midair, his Po Soul Spear aimed directly at Su Ming's Susanoo. Yet, for some reason, he hesitated to attack. Su Ming almost found the situation amusing, though he restrained himself, saying, "Senior Yang Wudi, why haven't you attacked yet? Weren't we going to compare our offensive power?"
Yang Wudi, who had overheard Xiao Wu's earlier comment, felt a pang of unease. Had Su Ming really slain Yu Yuanzhen? If true, then the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan might now be under Su Ming's control. But there had been no news, no rumors. Could he really trust such a bold claim?
Feeling the pressure, Yang Wudi steeled his resolve. He would only know for sure if he tested Su Ming's strength firsthand. Gathering his energy, he activated every soul skill, pouring power into his Po Soul Spear until it was at its most lethal. The spearhead gleamed, emitting a cutting edge that could fell even lower-level Titled Douluos.
To Su Ming, however, Yang Wudi's power felt only moderate. While Yang Wudi's singular focus on offense gave him the strength to match an average Titled Douluo, his skill lacked versatility. Deciding not to hold back, Su Ming swung his Susanoo's twin blades in a straightforward, powerful arc, embracing a raw, brutal elegance.
The clash was thunderous. Yang Wudi's spear was blasted back, embedding itself into the wall with a deep imprint. He was immediately forced out of his martial spirit true form, clutching his weapon, now faintly cracked. Had Su Ming not pulled his strike, Yang Wudi feared his spear—and perhaps his life—might have been shattered on the spot.
In stunned silence, the Po Clan members watched their formidable leader defeated so soundly. One by one, they rushed over, ready to assist him, but Yang Wudi, too proud to accept help, forced himself up and approached Su Ming, his expression humbled. "Su Ming, your strength is… monstrous. I yield."
Before Yang Wudi could say more, a soft green light enveloped him, restoring his complexion from pale to a healthy flush. Stunned, he looked at Su Ming, who calmly said, "As I mentioned, I'm an auxiliary soul master. Combat isn't my primary focus."
Yang Wudi and the others around him were speechless. Here was a youth with terrifying offensive power and potent healing abilities—yet he considered himself an auxiliary soul master?
Ignoring their reactions, Su Ming continued, "Now, Senior Yang, do you still have any reservations about joining the Spirit Hall?"
Yang Wudi shook his head, finally conceding. "Very well. But, Su Ming, let me be clear: we, the Po Clan, are joining only because of you. We'll follow your command, not the Spirit Hall's."
Su Ming grinned. "Of course. Since you'll be under my leadership, the arrangement will be as you wish. As for the Pope, leave her to me; she won't interfere."
With Su Ming's reassurance, Yang Wudi felt a sense of relief. He respected Su Ming's strength and composure, especially given the Spirit Hall's history with the Po Clan, and was glad they'd be answering only to him.
With their alliance sealed, Su Ming took out a precious herb, the Nine Heart Begonia, and handed it to Yang Wudi. "Senior Yang, I've heard you're skilled in alchemy. This herb should help enhance your abilities. Once you're settled in the Spirit Hall, why not establish an Alchemy Hall to serve our forces?"
Yang Wudi's eyes widened as he recognized the herb. "The Nine Heart Begonia? I… I can't believe this." He was so captivated that he barely registered Su Ming's proposal, but he nodded eagerly.
Watching Su Ming hand over the valuable herb so freely, Ju Douluo felt a pang of jealousy. "Su Ming," he said, "I, too, have a fair understanding of alchemy. Perhaps I could…"
Understanding his meaning, Su Ming chuckled.