Chapter 296: The Uncle and Nephew That Was Plotted Against, Ning Tianchen's Earth-Shattering Theory

Even without being asked, Ning Tianchen had already planned to take action against the Xue Xing uncle-nephew duo.

However, for their first confrontation, he couldn't kill them outright—he needed to let Dugu Bo repay his debt of gratitude first. Otherwise, it would become a lingering regret in Dugu Bo's heart.

Ning Tianchen nodded. "Agreed. And I'll also eliminate another potential threat."

Xue Qinghe asked with interest, "What kind of threat?"

Ning Tianchen didn't specify. "You'll know when the time comes."

Given Qian Renxue's decisive nature, the moment he mentioned that Yang Wudi could cure the five-colored poison, she'd likely send people to wipe out the Breaking Clan.

Since he had already decided to recruit them, Ning Tianchen wouldn't betray them.

Having agreed to She Long's conditions, Ning Tianchen explained further: "Because Beast Martial Souls and Weapon Martial Souls manifest differently, Weapon Martial Souls don't need to be attached to the soul master's body. Therefore, your combat style is incompatible with Beast Martial Souls."

"Try viewing your martial soul as your entire body and cultivate it accordingly. This way, you won't experience the rejection phenomenon you described earlier."

As he spoke, he tossed a manually compiled secret manual to Ning Tianchen.

"The problems encountered during the cultivation of Weapon Martial Soul Beast Transformation are all recorded in this manual. Follow its instructions, and if you have any questions, feel free to visit the Crown Prince's residence at any time."

After accepting the manual, Ning Tianchen didn't linger in the Crown Prince's residence but immediately returned to the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect.

The Weapon Martial Soul Beast Transformation would greatly enhance his strength.

Moreover, if he could achieve a high level of fusion with his martial soul, he wouldn't be far from comprehending the Seven Kill Sword Heart.

---

A few days later, the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect issued an announcement to the entire continent.

The announcement detailed the timing, procedures, and list of invited scholars for the academic exchange conference.

It was like a stone thrown into calm waters, creating ripples across the continent.

Many independent soul masters on the continent lacked sufficient knowledge of soul master theories.

This academic exchange conference would discuss various topics related to soul master theories. For these individuals, attending meant gaining valuable insights.

In no time, countless independent soul masters flocked toward Tiandou City.

On a mountain peak within Tiandou City.

Yu Xiaogang and Liu Erlong stood atop the summit, overlooking the entire city.

Liu Erlong was in an excellent mood and smiled. "Xiaogang, you finally have the chance to prove yourself."

At the academic exchange conference, besides discussions among renowned scholars about academic theories, there would also be interactive sessions. These allowed lesser-known scholars or ordinary people to ask questions or propose their own soul master theories and debate with the scholars.

If one could gain recognition from these esteemed scholars during the debates, it would be equivalent to making a name for oneself across the continent.

Yu Xiaogang trembled all over, his breathing becoming rapid.

He had waited so long for this day.

Regardless of the relationship between the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect and him, he had to attend this conference and use it as an opportunity to build his reputation.

By then, he could return to his family with honor.

"Erlong, quickly find my theories—I want to organize all of them before the conference begins."

Yu Xiaogang was full of confidence.

This time, he was determined to outshine those renowned scholars!

"Master, I'll help you too," said Dai Mubai, swaying gracefully as he entered the study.

His body hadn't fully recovered, and he was still in the midst of physical development. Having lost his masculine dignity, his body gradually became feminized, resulting in his current appearance.

Yu Xiaogang didn't look down on him, as Dai Mubai still served a purpose.

Meanwhile, inside Yue Xuan.

Upon learning of the announcement from the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect, the students of Yue Xuan discussed it enthusiastically.

The gathering of renowned scholars from across the continent intrigued many students, and they wanted to join in the excitement.

These were all children of nobles, well aware of the relationship between the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect and the Tiandou Imperial Family. They approached Princess Xue Ke, requesting tickets for front-row seats.

Princess Xue Ke replied, "I'll have to ask my older brother. If he attends, we can sit in the front row and observe the scholars' debates."

"If my brother doesn't go, I might not go either."

Hearing this, the noble children felt reassured.

After all, Ning Fengzhi was the Crown Prince's Grand Tutor. As the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect hosted this grand event, there was no reason for Xue Qinghe, as a student, not to support it.

After a pause, Xue Ke turned her gaze toward Tang San. "Tang Yin, will you go? If you do, you can join us."

Among the many students studying at Yue Xuan, Tang San was the only one who wasn't from a noble family.

Although he had made rapid progress in his studies of ceremonial music and gained the recognition of most, these noble children only acknowledged his skill in ceremonial music, not his status.

Associating with a commoner made these noble children feel as though they were lowering themselves.

Tang San politely declined with a smile. "I won't join you. Lady Yuehua is teaching me a new tune these days, so I might not have time to attend."

Xue Ke felt a bit disappointed but didn't insist.

Tang San, however, had his own thoughts.

"This academic gathering—Teacher will definitely attend. I wonder if his soul master theories will dominate the debates!"

He never doubted Yu Xiaogang's abilities. Without him, his own strength wouldn't have improved so rapidly, nor would the Shrek Seven Monsters have achieved a top-three finish in the Soul Master Tournament.

However, before the five-year agreement with the Shrek Seven Monsters, he couldn't reveal his identity or meet Yu Xiaogang.

This conference meant he could only observe Yu Xiaogang's movements from the shadows.

---

Inside the Seven Treasures Academy.

When Ning Tianchen mentioned his idea of helping Dugu Bo repay his debt of gratitude, Ke Jie didn't hesitate and immediately agreed.

"If Old Brother Dugu can resolve this lingering matter, our efforts will be well worth it," Ke Jie said with a smile. "Coincidentally, a close friend of mine has just arrived at the academy. Let's invite her to help."

Ke Jie's so-called close friend naturally had a good relationship with him. Even if she refused, she wouldn't leak the matter.

Following Ke Jie into the reception room, Ning Tianchen saw the person referred to as his close friend.

"This isn't a close friend—it's clearly a lover," Ning Tianchen muttered under his breath.

Ke Jie's close friend was an elegant noblewoman, and her strength was formidable—at least at the Soul Douluo level.

"Old Ke, I've finally seen your true face," the noblewoman smiled subtly. "Is this handsome young man beside you your son?"

"Cough, cough." Ke Jie cleared his throat and explained, "This is Ning Tianchen, the top genius of our sect. Don't misunderstand. I brought him here because there are some matters I'd like to discuss with you."

The noblewoman suppressed a smile and greeted Ning Tianchen.

"Old Ke, since this is our first meeting, why don't we catch up on old times? As for the matter you mentioned, we can discuss it later."

The noblewoman's name was Chen Lei, a scholar affiliated with the Star Luo Imperial Family.

Since they were asking for her help, Ke Jie naturally couldn't refuse her request.

The two sat together and began chatting casually.

Standing nearby, Ning Tianchen felt slightly awkward.

Though they hadn't formally met before today, they had exchanged letters for nearly twenty years.

Their conversation topics gradually became more absurd.

Ning Tianchen could tell that these two weren't just ordinary pen pals—their relationship likely went deeper.

No longer wanting to listen to their flirtatious banter, Ning Tianchen stepped out of the reception room.

Only after an hour, when their casual talk was nearly over, was he called back in to discuss the matter at hand.

"Senior, I hope you'll assist us in setting up a trap for Crown Prince Xue Beng or Prince Xue Xing of the Tiandou Imperial Family," Ning Tianchen said bluntly.

Chen Lei was slightly surprised. "Isn't the Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect a strategic partner of the Tiandou Imperial Family? Are you really collaborating with someone from the Star Luo Empire to set up members of the Tiandou Imperial Family?"

"Xiao Lei, here's the situation. My older brother owes Prince Xue Xing a favor," Ke Jie explained honestly. "That older brother of mine is stubborn. Over the past decade, he's done quite a lot for Prince Xue Xing and has already repaid the favor."

"Alas, until he hears Prince Xue Xing personally say 'the favor is settled,' he'll always feel indebted. So this time, we can only trouble you."

Chen Lei didn't rush to agree.

Simply put, this matter was about helping a friend resolve an issue. However, if someone were to escalate it, her actions as a member of the Star Luo Empire targeting a prince of the Tiandou Imperial Family could potentially spark a full-scale war between the two empires. Wouldn't she then become the scapegoat for starting the war?

Seeing her hesitation, Ning Tianchen quickly added, "Senior, rest assured. It's not just us involved in this matter. There are others behind the scenes who also want Prince Xue Xing removed. Though I can't disclose their identities, I can assure you that they wield significant influence and won't let the situation escalate into hatred between the two empires."

Chen Lei smiled faintly and countered, "But I can't help you for free, can I? Old Ke, last time we bet in our letters, and you owe me a thousand gold spirit coins. When do you plan to pay up? Or will it be included in this payment?"

Researching soul master theories was incredibly expensive.

Though she had the backing of the Star Luo Imperial Family, the cost of her research projects was immense.

Therefore, she wasn't willing to miss any opportunity to earn money.

Ning Tianchen took out a manual and a bag of gold spirit cards from his soul tool—one in each hand.

"Senior, you have two choices. In the bag in my right hand, there are a hundred thousand gold spirit coins, part of your payment for this mission. In my left hand, I hold a mature soul master theory that has never been officially published on the continent."

"You choose—one or the other. Decide before taking it."

"A soul master theory?" Chen Lei squinted, the wrinkles on her forehead becoming more pronounced. "Are you asking me to become a plagiarist?"

Ning Tianchen shook his head. "Dean Ke mentioned to me that part of your research into soul master theories is driven by the pursuit of truth. The theory I hold in my hand may or may not be the truth you seek. But once you have it, it will save you time and resources in researching this theory."

"How to choose is up to you, senior."

Ke Jie looked at Ning Tianchen's booklet with some confusion. "When did you start delving into soul master theories? What's written inside?"

Seeing that Ke Jie didn't know the contents of the booklet, Chen Lei smiled and decisively chose it.

Ning Tianchen asked with a smile, "Since senior has chosen the reward, does that mean this matter is settled?"

Chen Lei flipped through the booklet, waved her hand dismissively, and said, "Approved."

At the same time, Ke Jie leaned over, trying to peek at what Ning Tianchen had recorded in the booklet.

Chen Lei turned away with a smile. "Old Ke, this time, I'll finally leave you behind."

Ke Jie felt an itch in his heart and couldn't help but ask, "Tianchen, what exactly have you recorded? Do Master Ning and the others know about it?"

Ning Tianchen gave a faint smile and didn't elaborate.

After Chen Lei finished browsing the content, she closed the booklet and took a deep breath. "There are only theories here, no actual case studies. How can I confirm the authenticity of these theories?"

Ke Jie quickly interjected, "Let me take a look. Perhaps I have experimental records for some of the theories."

Chen Lei didn't hesitate and tossed the booklet to him.

For her, as long as she knew the content of the theory one second before Ke Jie, she felt satisfied.

After all, for twenty years, Ke Jie had always been one step ahead of her. Today, she finally got her revenge.

"Theories about hundred-thousand-year spirit beasts." Ke Jie shot Ning Tianchen a surprised glance and immediately opened the booklet.

Ning Tianchen had recorded three main theories and multiple annotations.

First, the soul ring provided by a hundred-thousand-year spirit beast must contain two soul skills.

Though this was not widely known in the soul master world, it had already been established as fact.

Second, a hundred-thousand-year spirit beast will inevitably drop a hundred-thousand-year soul bone, specifically from the missing part of its body.

This theory was something Ke Jie couldn't verify. After all, he didn't possess a hundred-thousand-year soul ring or soul bone.

Third, after living for another thousand years, a hundred-thousand-year spirit beast doesn't necessarily die. If it can survive the heavenly tribulation, it will gain another hundred thousand years of life, with its cultivation potentially reaching two hundred thousand years. Additionally, every time a spirit beast reaches a hundred thousand years of cultivation, it undergoes a heavenly tribulation.

"Whoa…" Ke Jie sucked in a breath of cold air.

These theoretical contents were extremely difficult to verify, if not outright impossible.

Humans and spirit beasts were natural enemies. How could a hundred-thousand-year spirit beast, possessing considerable intelligence, reveal its secrets to humans?

"Tianchen, aren't these theories too irresponsible?" Ke Jie couldn't help but blurt out.

Ning Tianchen didn't rush to explain but instead revealed his soul rings.

The moment the seven soul rings—six black and one red—appeared, Ke Jie and Chen Lei fell silent.

"So you already possess a hundred-thousand-year soul ring and soul bone. Then the first and second theories can be verified based on your own example," Chen Lei said, her eyes flashing with a glimmer.

After all, regarding the theories of hundred-thousand-year soul bones, Ning Tianchen, as the possessor, had the final say.

"Hundred-thousand-year soul ring, Tianchen, how did you absorb it with your physical condition?" Ke Jie couldn't help but ask.

Absorbing a soul ring beyond one's level already violated soul master theory. Absorbing a hundred-thousand-year soul ring as a seventh soul ring directly crushed the previous theories into the ground.

Chen Lei asked with a smile, "Compared to spirit beast theories, I'm more curious about how to increase the age of soul rings."

Ning Tianchen calmly answered each question: "Senior, the increase in my soul ring duration was due to special circumstances. These circumstances are extraordinarily unique and absolutely cannot be disclosed, so I cannot answer your doubts."

Matters related to deities were significant, and speaking of them would inevitably bring trouble.

"Dean Ke, I can answer your doubts. It's simple—this hundred-thousand-year soul ring wasn't something I actively absorbed. Instead, a hundred-thousand-year Golden Scale Dragon sacrificed itself to me."

"Sacrifice!" The two exchanged glances.

Indeed, in the spirit beast world, only hundred-thousand-year-level spirit beasts could initiate a sacrifice.

With this explanation, Ning Tianchen's third theory also made sense.

If a hundred-thousand-year spirit beast could sacrifice itself to him, there must have been communication between them. Thus, Ning Tianchen's third theory was very likely obtained directly from the spirit beast.

Though they couldn't verify it, based on Ning Tianchen's integrity, the matter was undoubtedly true.

"Goodness, it seems we need to redefine our theoretical divisions regarding spirit beasts," Chen Lei said, her face filled with excitement.

Ke Jie remained relatively calm and asked, "Tianchen, are there really spirit beasts on the continent that surpass a hundred thousand years?"

Ning Tianchen nodded firmly. "During my training in the Extreme North, I heard legends of the Three Great Heavenly Kings of the Extreme North. Later, when the Golden Scale Dragon sacrificed itself to me, I inquired about the Three Great Heavenly Kings."

"Among them, the strongest spirit beast is called the Snow Maiden, rumored to possess over seven hundred thousand years of cultivation. The remaining two Heavenly Kings have cultivation levels exceeding two hundred thousand years at the very least."

Of course, the Golden Scale Dragon hadn't actually said this.

Ning Tianchen, with his godlike perspective, already knew the identities of the Three Great Heavenly Kings of the Extreme North.

He said this only to increase the credibility of his theories.

For a moment, shock filled the faces of the two.

"A regular Super Douluo would struggle to handle a hundred-thousand-year spirit beast. How powerful must a seven-hundred-thousand-year spirit beast be!"

Ning Tianchen casually remarked, "Perhaps, compared to Tang Chen of the past, it wouldn't be inferior—and might even surpass him."

Ke Jie pondered for a moment and warned, "This theory is still immature. For now, don't bring it to the soul master community."

Chen Lei agreed. "That's right, it shouldn't be spoken of carelessly. If someone ventures deep into the Extreme North or the Star Dou Forest and begins large-scale searches for spirit beasts surpassing a hundred thousand years, it could lead to war between humans and spirit beasts."

"Tsk tsk, knowing such theories is quite fortunate for us."

Ke Jie pouted. "Why haven't I encountered a hundred-thousand-year spirit beast nearing the end of its lifespan? I have many questions I'd like to ask them."

Ning Tianchen retorted, "Dean Ke, the sacrifice of a hundred-thousand-year spirit beast is something that cannot be forced. Spirit beasts have incredibly long lifespans. For humans, the probability of encountering one just as it nears death is practically zero."

"I was just joking around. Why are you taking it so seriously?"

After a pause, he asked, "What do you plan to have Little Lei do? I warn you, don't mess around."

Ning Tianchen rolled his eyes.

Chen Lei was already past sixty years old. No matter how well she took care of herself, the passage of time had left its marks on her face.

Who was Prince Xue Xing? Every night, the women accompanying him were under twenty years old.

Having Chen Lei seduce him would be absurd.

Ning Tianchen said, "Prince Xue Xing and Xue Beng often appear at the Tiandou City auction house. I've decided to auction off an item that will catch their interest. At that time, senior will compete with them to ensure we win the bid."

"At that point, the Xue Xing uncle-nephew duo will surely seek trouble with senior. That will be our opportunity."

Ke Jie approved. "For safety, I'll stay hidden in the shadows."

Chen Lei wasn't worried about her own situation but extended her hand. "You'll need to provide the funds for the auction."

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