Reflecting on that arrow from Guang Ling last night, Gu Han felt that this was how things were supposed to unfold.
In the donghua, Yu Xiaogang had taken an arrow straight through the heart and walked away as if nothing happened—total plot armor!
As for the four five-thousand-year-old soul bones, Gu Han and Bibi Dong handed them over to their master's wife, Lingyuan. Neither of them had plans to absorb them.
After all, unlike external soul bones with growth potential—comparable in value to a 100,000-year soul ring—these fixed soul bones were best absorbed only once they reached the fifty-thousand-year threshold.
They were rare, yes, but quality mattered more than quantity.
Besides, it was just a few bones. Even without them, the two of them still had complete confidence in standing at the pinnacle of the continent one day.
Time flew by, and soon the day arrived for the imperial funeral of the former emperor, as well as Xue Xing's coronation. The news quickly spread across all the major powers, who each sent representatives to Heaven Dou City.
The Clear Sky Clan, known as the strongest clan on the continent, didn't send their clan leader, but dispatched the Grand Elder instead.
Likewise, the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan was represented by Yu Luomian, not the clan leader.
The Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan and Spirit Hall were already represented in the city by Ning Fengzhi and Lingyuan, respectively.
Even the Star Luo Empire, usually at odds with Heaven Dou, sent a delegate.
With representatives from all the major factions gathering in Heaven Dou City, the capital, which had just emerged from a night of bloodshed, once again bustled with activity.
A solemn atmosphere settled over the city as the late emperor's funeral proceeded with solemn precision.
Low, mournful music echoed through every corner of the city, casting a shadow of sorrow over Heaven Dou.
The emperor's coffin was slowly lowered into the ground. The accompanying treasures and ceremonial processions were conducted with the highest honors, showcasing the grandeur and dignity of the imperial court.
Clad in mourning garments, citizens knelt in respect, and the representatives of each power bowed in reverence, paying their final respects to the deceased ruler.
As the saying goes: a nation cannot go a day without a sovereign.
The day after the funeral, Xue Xing's coronation ceremony officially began.
As the sun gradually rose, golden rays bathed the vast coronation plaza.
Crowds had gathered—officials, nobles, delegates from every major force, and countless citizens—all eagerly awaiting the moment.
Draped in a grand imperial robe embroidered with dragons, and wearing the emperor's ceremonial crown, Xue Xing ascended the dais, flanked by attendants and guards.
His eyes were filled with undisguised excitement and satisfaction. At last, he had seized the throne—Heaven Dou Empire now belonged to him.
Below the platform, the assembled representatives focused their gazes on him, each bearing their own unspoken thoughts.
Yu Xiaogang, standing beside Yu Luomian, frowned faintly. Glancing at his equally uneasy uncle, he whispered, "Uncle, something feels off. The old emperor was already critically ill—the Crown Prince should've succeeded naturally. There was no reason for rebellion. I think... I think the traitor may have been Xue—"
"Fool, shut your mouth!"
Yu Luomian shot him a glare sharp enough to chill the air, hissing, "So you think you're clever? The affairs of royalty have nothing to do with us."
That look from Yu Luomian made Yu Xiaogang's heart freeze. It was the first time he had seen such lethal intent in his uncle's eyes—it was as if he'd be devoured whole.
Yu Xiaogang lowered his head, no longer daring to speak.
The Grand Elder of the Clear Sky Clan remained calm. With his cultivation level, he naturally heard every word Yu Xiaogang had said, but he made no move to intervene.
Before coming to the city, the clan had already deduced most of what had transpired. Their conclusion was simple: they'd turn a blind eye, so long as the Heaven Dou Empire didn't become their enemy.
There was no reason—and no benefit—to expose the truth.
After all, this incident clearly involved Spirit Hall and the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan. Unveiling it would offend not just Heaven Dou's new regime, but two of the most powerful forces on the continent. Not worth it.
Each major faction had already measured the situation in their own minds. Whether Xue Xing's ascension was legitimate or the result of a coup, none would speak the truth aloud.
At last, the ceremonial official's loud proclamation rang out across the plaza—Xue Xing had officially become emperor.
He took up the jade imperial seal, symbol of the throne, and raised it high for all to see. His voice thundered across the square, commanding absolute authority.
"I, Xue Xing, ascend the throne this day. I vow to govern diligently, and to ensure the eternal prosperity of the Heaven Dou Empire!"
All across the plaza, officials and citizens knelt in unison. The guests, based on their own standing, either knelt halfway or offered deep bows.
"Long live the Emperor!"
The cries shook the heavens—declaring the dawn of a new era in Heaven Dou Empire.
Amid this deafening chant, Xue Xing's pride soared. A wave of ambition surged in his chest.
Seizing the moment, he began to reward his allies—to cement his grip on the throne.
With a bold voice, he announced: "Gu Han, for your outstanding contributions in quelling the traitors, I hereby name you a Duke. I also bestow upon you the Sea God Heart and grant you special privileges."
Gu Han remained composed—this had all been arranged beforehand. He was to represent Spirit Hall's younger generation on the public stage.
He stepped forward respectfully and bowed. "Your Majesty is most gracious. I am honored."
Then, Xue Xing turned to Ning Fengzhi, smiling broadly.
"Ning Fengzhi, master of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan, your wisdom was instrumental in suppressing the rebellion. I hereby appoint you as Imperial Advisor, and declare the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan the official national clan, with all privileges that come with the title."
Ning Fengzhi, elegant and refined, walked forward with his ornate cane, offering a courteous bow.
"Your Majesty is wise. I shall serve with all my strength, even unto death."
Inwardly, Ning Fengzhi was thrilled. Being named Imperial Advisor was fine—but the title of National Clan elevated the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan to its greatest height yet, far surpassing the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan.
In fact, if the Clear Sky Clan didn't have a peak-level expert holding the fort, his clan would now unquestionably be the number one clan in the land.
Next, Xue Xing looked to the three Education Commitee members. "Meng Shenji, Bai Baoshan, Zhi Lin—you three saw clearly through this crisis, and acted in support of the rightful rule. I promote you to Marquis. I trust you will continue to serve the Empire loyally."
The Elders understood the hidden warning in Xue Xing's tone. Though unwilling, they could only kneel and accept.
"Thank you, Your Majesty."
Following this, Xue Xing began appointing his loyal followers to key governmental roles—Ministers of various departments, all placed strategically.
His inner circle beamed with joy, falling to their knees in gratitude.
Thus, the court became a great invisible web, with all factions pulling strings, vying for power.
On Spirit Hall's side, the local Platinum Bishop, She Long, worked in quiet tandem with Ning Fengzhi and others, slowly tightening their grip over Heaven Dou's political sphere.
But none of this had much to do with Gu Han or Bibi Dong anymore.
They were still in their cultivation phase, and it wouldn't do to waste time tangled in court politics. This entire event had served more as a trial for their mental fortitude and experience.
Having completed the first phase of their mission, they didn't return to Spirit Hall. Instead, they set out for the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan.
Chen Xin—Sword Douluo and one of Gu Han's masters—held deep affection for Bibi Dong as well, treating her with warmth and care.
Whenever he looked at Gu Han, he saw his younger self—the same dedication to martial cultivation, the same innate talent for swordsmanship.
Bibi Dong, with her lively and radiant personality, brought a different kind of joy to Chen Xin. She warmed his heart like a precious granddaughter.
The Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan was a dreamlike place. Its architecture was elegant and extravagant, showcasing immense wealth and heritage.
Just as they stepped inside, a familiar figure appeared before them.
Having read in Ning Fengzhi's letter that the two would visit, Chen Xin had been waiting. When he saw them arrive, his face lit up with a gentle smile.
"Xiao Han, Dong'er, you've come."
His deep voice was calm and kind. Though usually stern, at this moment he seemed more like a kindly grandfather—warm and approachable.
Bibi Dong's eyes sparkled with joy. She skipped forward and playfully latched onto his arm, her smile bright as spring sunshine.
"Uncle Sword, we came especially to see you!"
Her lively demeanor was like a spring breeze, softening Chen Xin's heart. He smiled warmly, his eyes full of affection.
"Good, good. Dong'er, you're getting more beautiful by the day—growing into such a fine young lady."
Bibi Dong beamed even brighter at the compliment. She spun gracefully on the spot, full of energy.
"Hehe, only Uncle Sword has such great taste!"
In contrast to her springlike vivacity, Gu Han remained composed and dignified.
He bowed respectfully, eyes humble and steady.
"Master, we've come hoping to stay at the clan for a while, and also to seek your guidance in the way of the sword. I hope you will continue to teach us."
Last time they had met, the discussion had been too rushed. Now, Chen Xin took a closer look.
After a moment of appraisal, he nodded in satisfaction.
"Not bad. Still so young, and already a five-ring Soul King. I expect it won't be long before you reach Rank 60. At this pace, the title of youngest Titled Douluo on the continent might very well go to you two."
"Thank you for the praise, Master."
"Hehe, Uncle Sword! I'm going to become the woman of an Ultimate Douluo!"
~~~
If You Wish To Support Me And Read 30 Chapters Ahead, Consider Joining Me On This Journey!
> [email protected]/HudaLin