Chapter 10: Provoking! Betting with Dugu Yan

At Heaven Dou Royal Academy, the grandeur of the institution rivaled that of the royal palaces of smaller kingdoms. The luxurious decorations shimmered under the sun, exuding opulence that reflected the wealth and status of its students.

Most who studied here were either heirs of powerful families or scions of noble clans.

After school, elegantly dressed young men and women strolled out, their uniforms symbolizing both prestige and privilege.

Across the street, leaning casually against a wall, was a handsome young boy with red maple-colored hair. His relaxed posture made him seem like a street urchin—but his striking appearance set him apart.

"Finally, after days of waiting, I've found my target."

His sharp eyes caught sight of a girl with iconic green hair leaving the academy, surrounded by admirers. She was none other than Dugu Yan.

Beside her was a silver-haired girl—Ye Lingling—her cold demeanor contrasting with her subtle warmth when interacting with Dugu Yan.

"Yanyan, look—it's that boy again," Ye Lingling teased with a playful glint in her eyes.

"Every day after school, he's staring at you. Maybe he's about to confess his feelings!"

Dugu Yan rolled her eyes, stretching her hand to playfully smack Ye Lingling, who swiftly dodged while laughing.

"Young ones are cute, huh? Raise them right, and they'll grow up to be obedient!"

Dugu Yan's cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

"You're impossible!" She chased after Ye Lingling in mock anger.

"If you like him so much, take him home yourself!"

But Ye Lingling's laughter abruptly stopped as Lin Xiao approached.

"Yanyan, he's coming toward you!" she whispered teasingly.

Dugu Yan stopped chasing and turned, curiosity flickering in her emerald eyes.

"Little brother, what do you want to talk to me about?"

Lin Xiao blinked, thrown off by her unexpectedly gentle demeanor. This wasn't what he had planned at all.

Wasn't she supposed to be cold and arrogant?

Then realization struck—he was six years old! From their perspective, he was just a cute little boy.

"You're Dugu Yan, right? I need to meet your grandfather."

Dugu Yan squatted down to his level, surprised by the direct request.

"Why do you want to meet my grandfather, little guy?"

Ye Lingling returned, smirking.

"Ready to meet the parents already? Must be love at first sight!"

"Lingling! Stop teasing me!" Dugu Yan scolded, though her blush betrayed her amusement.

Lin Xiao, determined to regain control, raised his voice:

"I have an important reason. I know the flaws of the Jade Phosphor Serpent Martial Spirit—and I can help fix them!"

Dugu Yan blinked in surprise, but instead of the seriousness Lin Xiao hoped for, she burst out laughing.

"Little boy, go home. You're adorable, but don't make up stories."

Ye Lingling pinched his cheek playfully.

"If Yanyan's not interested, maybe I'll take you home instead."

Lin Xiao's patience snapped. His expression darkened.

"Dugu Yan, I think your Jade Phosphor Serpent is useless, and your venom is nothing special. I, Lin Xiao, officially challenge you!"

Both girls froze. Dugu Yan's amusement vanished, replaced by cold anger.

"Say that again, little boy."

Lin Xiao met her icy gaze with unwavering determination.

"I challenge you to a duel. The loser must fulfill one condition set by the winner."

Dugu Yan's emerald eyes narrowed.

"Fine, but let's raise the stakes. The loser agrees to three conditions."

Now, I've got your full attention, Lin Xiao thought, preparing himself for the most dangerous gamble yet.