Chapter 77: The Catalyst for External Spirit Bone Han Li's Choice
"What do you think? Not bad, right? When we get back to Spirit City, you can even show off to your senior uncle. This is the same soul beast that escaped from him back in the day."
Guang Ling could see his disciple's interest and teased him with a smile.
"Yeah, thanks, Master. I also think the Azure Shadow Divine Eagle suits me well. If I'm lucky, I might even get its wings. That would greatly increase my flight speed while reducing noise and energy consumption, covering my current shortcomings."
Han Li stored the document and replied with a grin.
"Shortcomings? Pfft, whatever makes you happy."
Guang Ling couldn't help but roll his eyes. Shortcomings? What kind of soul elder (Soul Exalted) was this absurdly overpowered?
Could an average Rank 30+ soul master beat Xiao Li? He did a quick mental comparison.
Hiss… better not dwell on that. It felt a bit disrespectful to his senior brother. But then again, little Xue'er was so adorable…
Forget it. Compared to Qian Xunji and Bibi Dong, Xiao Li was definitely superior. Guang Ling changed his frame of reference and immediately felt pleased.
"By the way, Xiao Li, once things here wrap up, it looks like we'll be heading to Star Dou Forest. The Azure Shadow Divine Eagle was spotted there. It'll take at least half a month to confirm its location, which works out fine you should be fully recovered by then."
Guang Ling reminded Han Li of the upcoming trip.
Star Dou Forest, huh? Fine, we'll get it done in one trip and return to Spirit City afterward.
Han Li adjusted his original plans in his mind, thinking about how to inform Dugu Bo and Dugu Yan about his departure.
"What do you plan to do about those two?"
Guang Ling leaned closer and lowered his voice.
"I'm planning to take Dugu Yan back to Spirit City. What do you think, Master?"
Han Li looked at Guang Ling, seeking his opinion.
"I don't really mind, but aren't you worried about Xiu'er getting jealous?"
Guang Ling smirked, giving Han Li a knowing look.
"Master, don't say things like that."
Han Li sighed helplessly at his ever entertained master.
"I'm bringing her back to train her. With the foundation from the Nine Grade Dragon Ganoderma, she'll become a powerful ally in the future."
Of course, Han Li didn't mention his real plan he also intended to give Dugu Yan an external spirit bone.
With such a substantial gift, she'd have no choice but to stay by his side for a while, and even Dugu Bo wouldn't have any objections.
He originally planned to stay in Tian Dou City longer to build their relationship, but his days had been fully occupied by cleansing his martial soul there was no time for anything else.
Plus, with his third soul ring requiring a trip to Star Dou Forest, going back and forth would cost even more time. Even he found that wasteful.
Since that was the case, once everything here was settled, Dugu Yan would soon reach the Soul Elder level. To maximize benefits, he had to secure the external spirit bone as soon as possible. Relationship building could wait bringing her back to Spirit City was the best option.
Besides, he had always planned to take her away. This was a world where love and power were intertwined; he had no intention of letting someone else reap the benefits.
"Alright, we'll go with your plan."
Guang Ling nodded in agreement, but he sighed internally.
Looks like things weren't looking good for little Xue. Oh well, one step at a time. They hadn't even had a chance to meet yet.
It was all Qian Xunji's fault. Why did he have to come up with that ridiculous scheme to seize the throne before he died?
And now? It not only wasted Xue'er's talent but also cost him his future daughter in law.
Hmph, and Bibi Dong that crazy woman. Just wait. When we get back, I'll have Xiao Li beat up your disciple to vent my frustration.
"By the way, Master, there's something else I need your help with." Han Li turned to Guang Ling.
"What is it?"
"Have Archbishop Salas prepare a few death row criminals or fallen soul masters those guilty of heinous crimes. Preferably at the Soul Elder or Soul Ancestor level. Of course, Soul Ancestors would be best. When we head to Star Dou Forest, bring them along."
A sharp glint flickered in Han Li's eyes as he spoke.
"Hmm? Xiao Li, what do you need them for?"
Guang Ling frowned slightly, puzzled by the request. He was also a bit concerned was this an aftereffect of the martial soul invasion? Had it affected Han Li's mindset?
"This is destiny's guidance. The moment I confirmed we were going to Star Dou Forest, I had a feeling this was necessary."
Han Li sighed internally. He couldn't exactly tell his master that he needed these people as sacrificial pawns to absorb spirit rings and external spirit bones before forcibly extracting them himself.
"Don't worry, Master. I don't take pleasure in unnecessary killing. These criminals are merely tools for an opportunity I need to seize. When we leave Star Dou Forest, those who survive will be returned to the local Spirit Hall."
Han Li gritted his teeth and added a justification.
"Fine. They're just scum anyway. But Xiao Li… are you absolutely sure you haven't been affected?"
Guang Ling studied Han Li closely for a long moment before carefully asking.
"Absolutely. I can swear on my martial soul, and I'll willingly undergo an inspection by the Grand Worshipper when we return."
Han Li met Guang Ling's gaze head on, feeling warmth from his master's concern.
"There's no need. I trust you."
Guang Ling held his stare for a moment longer before shaking his head with a chuckle.
"I know you have your secrets. Keep them well hidden. As long as you don't cross the line, I'll turn a blind eye. But remember never fall into corruption. If you do, I will kill you myself."
Guang Ling's tone turned deadly serious. It was the first time Han Li had seen his master this stern.
"I understand, Master."
Han Li nodded solemnly.
"Alright, that's settled. I'll take care of it for you."
Guang Ling's expression softened again.
"Now, get back to training. Also, you could consider telling Dugu Bo about this."
Guang Ling casually added.
"Master, I swear I'm fine."
Han Li, who had already taken a few steps away, turned back with a helpless expression.
"Alright, alright, go train. I'll be watching over you, you little brat."
Guang Ling waved him off with a smile.
Once Han Li returned to his stone chamber, Guang Ling turned toward the Yin Yang Ice and Fire Eyes, his gaze flickering with cold light, deep in thought.
Meanwhile, Han Li sat back down and sighed.
He couldn't blame Guang Ling for his concerns there were things he simply couldn't explain.
The biggest problem with external spirit bones was that they had to absorb a spirit ring to be properly fused. Otherwise, he wouldn't have to resort to such extreme measures.
As for Guang Ling's suggestion to let Dugu Bo handle it, Han Li had no doubt that the old man could take care of it. But with his methods, who knew what kind of people he'd pick?
Han Li was ruthless when necessary, but that didn't mean he was willing to let innocent people suffer in his place. Choosing criminals who deserved their fate was much easier for his conscience.
Perhaps… that was just hypocrisy?
Han Li chuckled to himself, then emptied his mind and re entered his meditative state.
(End of Chapter.)
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