Douluo: When the piano sounds, the hidden weapon returns to the factory

Inside the shrine, holy light flowed, and all was silent. Qian Daoliu stood quietly beneath the enormous angel statue, seemingly merging with the magnificent golden light.

A soft yet distinctive sound of footsteps broke the silence, and the figure of Serpent Spear Douluo She Long appeared at the palace gate. His steps were steady, and his expression was respectful with the composure befitting a Title Douluo. He walked to a short distance behind Qian Daoliu and bowed, saying, "Grand Elder."

Qian Daoliu did not turn around, his gaze still fixed on the statue, his voice calm yet authoritative: "What news has there been from Xiaoxue recently?"

She Long paused slightly before reporting truthfully: "Reporting to the Grand Elder, the child unintentionally gained the recognition of the Sea God's relic, and the young master has decided to set off soon to Sea God Island for training."

Upon hearing the words "Seagod Island," a rare and complex ripple appeared in Qian Daoliu's usually calm and placid golden eyes. He slowly turned around, his gaze seemingly piercing through the palace dome, looking towards the endless, distant sea.

Poseidon Island... Poseidon...

That name, that once peerless blue figure who ruled the ocean, involuntarily surfaced in his mind. Memories surged like a tide, the entanglements and regrets of their era, the silent understanding and eternal melancholy between angels and sea gods.

In his memory, he had climbed the steps outside the Temple of Poseidon with another figure, chasing after the figure standing in front of the Temple of Poseidon.

He once set foot in that azure realm, gazing at her across the sea, but in the end, he could only bury the unspoken feelings and respect deep in his heart, transforming them into the loneliness of each guarding and passing on their heritage.

“Seagod Island…” Qian Daoliu repeated the name softly, and the gentle golden light around him seemed to ripple slightly.

Qian Daoliu remained silent for a moment, as if lost in some distant memory. After a long while, he spoke again, his voice lower: "She Long."

"My subordinate is here."

"Go to Tiandou City yourself and give this letter to Xiaoxue." As Qian Daoliu spoke, an envelope emitting a faint golden halo appeared in his hand. On the surface of the envelope, a tiny six-winged angel totem slowly swirled, exuding a pure and sacred aura.

She Long stepped forward and solemnly accepted the envelope with both hands.

Qian Daoliu stared at him and solemnly instructed, "Tell Xiaoxue that if she arrives at Seagod Island and meets the High Priest... then deliver this letter to her on my behalf."

"Yes, High Priest." She Long replied in a deep voice, carefully putting away the envelope. He hesitated for a moment, but couldn't help asking, "High Priest, Seagod Island is fraught with danger. Will the young master's journey be..."

Qian Daoliu's gaze seemed to pierce through the palace and look towards the distant sea: "Crisis also contains opportunity. That is her choice, her path, and also the guidance of the gods. All we can do is to give her the support she needs when she needs it."

"Yes! Your subordinate will personally deliver the letter to the young master and convey the Grand Elder's words." She Long bowed again, his tone firm.

Qian Daoliu nodded slightly, turned around again, and faced the angel statue, as if he had once again merged into that holy light.

She Long said no more, bowed respectfully, turned and strode away, his steps steady and swift, and soon disappeared at the end of the long corridor outside the offering hall.

Silence returned to the hall, leaving only Qian Daoliu and his barely audible sigh, filled with endless memories.

"I hope she can accept that child..."

Qian Daoliu looked back at the angel statue, his gaze distant. He wondered what Poseidon would think when she saw the letter, and whether it could, on that unknown island of Poseidon, bring his granddaughter and the young man named Feng Yao a semblance of favor and protection from an old friend.

This was perhaps the only thing he, as a grandfather and as the High Priest of the Angels, could do at this moment.

Deep within the Eastern Palace of the Heavenly Dou Empire, in a secret hall whose secrets are never revealed to outsiders.

The flickering candlelight illuminated two almost identical figures.

Qian Renxue had shed her luxurious princely robes and donned a plain white outfit, her aura both restrained and sharp. Standing before her was a man with lowered eyes and a posture, face, and even subtle expressions that were identical to "Crown Prince Xue Qinghe."

This is "Shadow," a special talent cultivated by the Spirit Hall at great expense. His spirit is Shadow, and with a special spirit ring configuration, he can conjure up corresponding forms, expressions, and voices.

Qian Renxue's eyes were cold and clear as she recounted each point, her speech steady yet allowing no room for error:

"When Marshal Goron reports on military affairs, he habitually taps the second memorial lightly with his index finger. You should nod in response to show that you have taken note."

"Regarding the petition, the reply should use the word 'approved,' but the seal should be placed three-tenths of an inch to the lower right. This is a secret mark between me and the Minister of Finance, and he will understand that the allocated funds need to be reduced by 10%."

"The third hidden compartment in the study contains copies of all the matters concerning the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School that I have reviewed. In case of any emergency, you may consult them, but you must never take them away or leave any traces of reading them."

Each time she said something, "Shadow" would repeat it in a low voice. After confirming that it was correct, a faint glint of soul power flashed in her eyes. She had actually used a special memory soul skill to imprint the command deep into her mind.

After giving her explanation, Qian Renxue took off the jade thumb ring that represented the Crown Prince's identity and put it on "Shadow's" thumb.

At this moment, the "Shadow" was no different from the real "Xue Qinghe" in terms of aura, appearance, and even the hidden authority of someone who had long held a high position.

“Remember,” Qian Renxue concluded, her voice icy, “you are Crown Prince Xue Qinghe, and also the ‘Shadow’ of the Spirit Hall. Your mission is to work secretly within the Empire and the Hall, maintaining the smooth operation of everything without causing any disturbances or arousing suspicion. If you encounter any indecisive matters… your first priority is to protect yourself and this identity.”

"Shadow" bowed deeply, and spoke in the same gentle voice as when Qian Renxue was in disguise, but with absolute obedience: "I will obey the young master's orders."

"Uncle Ci, he's in your hands now," Qian Renxue said softly.

"Yes, young master." A chilling voice rang in Qian Renxue's ears.

Qian Renxue said no more, took one last look at the power palace she had cultivated for twenty years, turned around, and her figure disappeared into the shadows of the secret palace as she quietly left.

Inside the hall, "Crown Prince Xue Qinghe" slowly straightened up, straightened his sleeves, and his gentle, jade-like smile was impeccable. He stepped out of the secret hall and calmly said to his trusted confidants guarding the outside, "Pass down the order: from today onwards, I need to cultivate my mind and body in peace. I will not see anyone except for matters of military and political importance."

The transfer of power was completed silently.

With all affairs of Tiandou City handed over, Qian Renxue removed her magnificent court robes, changed into simple attire for ease of movement, and quietly arrived at the Ye residence.

On the other side, at the Ye residence.

Compared to the solemnity and oppression of the palace, the atmosphere here is much more relaxed, but there is also a hint of restlessness about an upcoming journey.

The mansion gates were not wide open, but ajar. When Qian Renxue appeared outside, she caused no commotion. She made no attempt to disguise herself today, wearing a simple yet elegant white outfit, her long golden hair tied back in a neat ponytail, revealing her smooth forehead and her unique and noble golden eyes. She raised her hand and tapped the door three times lightly with her fingertips in a specific rhythm.

Almost the instant the knock fell, the gates were pulled open from the inside. It was Feng Yao who opened the door. He seemed to have anticipated her arrival, stepping aside to let her in. His gaze lingered on her for a moment before he nodded slightly: "Is everything settled?" "Yes," Qian Renxue replied softly, stepping into the courtyard. Her gaze quickly swept across the courtyard.

Dugu Yan was leaning listlessly against a flowering tree, a small, emerald-green snake coiled around her fingertip, nuzzling affectionately against it. Hearing the noise, she looked up, a smile flashing in her beautiful eyes, and waved to Qian Renxue, "Sister Xue'er."

Ye Lingling sat quietly on a stone bench to the side, an open ancient book on her lap. She looked up at the sound, her cool gaze falling on Qian Renxue. She gently closed the book, stood up, nodded slightly, and smiled, "Sister Xue'er."

The most eye-catching figure was Ning Rongrong, standing not far from Ye Lingling, curiously observing her surroundings, appearing slightly awkward yet unable to hide her excitement. She had changed out of her sect's elaborate robes today, wearing a light pink dress that allowed for easier movement, making her look even more charming. Upon seeing Qian Renxue enter, her eyes clearly lit up. She stepped forward and gracefully performed a standard aristocratic bow: "You must be Brother Qinghe." Her tone carried just the right amount of intimacy and respect. She had obviously already learned Qian Renxue's true identity from Feng Yao.

Qian Renxue's gaze lingered on Ning Rongrong for a moment. She didn't seem surprised by the addition of this little princess of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile School. She simply raised the corners of her lips and revealed a very faint but genuine smile: "Rongrong, your teacher is willing to let you out?"

Her tone was natural, acknowledging Ning Rongrong's participation while also making a slight joke, instantly bridging the gap between them.

Ning Rongrong blushed slightly and smiled a little shyly, her slight unease dissipating.

Dugu Yan also walked over at this moment, naturally taking Ning Rongrong's other arm, and smiled at Qian Renxue, "Our group is getting more and more lively now. Sister Xue'er, have you made all the arrangements? When shall we set off?"

Qian Renxue nodded, "We can set off immediately." Her voice was clear and melodious, carrying a hint of barely perceptible anticipation and determination. The completion of her mission over the years made her feel unusually relaxed.

Feng Yao stepped forward and stood beside her, his attitude clear without needing to say a word. Dugu Yan and Ning Rongrong exchanged a smile, and Ye Lingling nodded slightly.

Before long, the carriage was already waiting there. Without saying a word, the five people exchanged tacit nods and then boarded the carriage.

The carriage traveled along the slightly bumpy official road, but the ride inside was quite smooth. Feng Yao unfolded a somewhat worn sheepskin map and laid it on the small table in the center, drawing everyone's attention.

“We are here now,” Feng Yao pointed to the location marked 'Tian Dou City' and then traced it south. “The usual route is to continue south along this main road, bypass the eastern edge of the Star Dou Great Forest, and then turn southeast to the coastal city of Han Hai City, from where we can look for an opportunity to sail to Seagod Island.”

The carriage traveled a short distance along the slightly bumpy road. As if sensing something, Feng Yao gently pulled the reins, causing the carriage to slowly come to a stop in a relatively secluded clearing in the woods by the roadside.

"What's wrong?" Qian Renxue immediately noticed the wariness in his movements and asked in a low voice. Dugu Yan, Ye Lingling, and Ning Rongrong also instantly became alert, their eyes scanning the window.

Before Feng Yao could answer, everyone felt a familiar aura of a Title Douluo approaching from afar. It was extremely fast, but there was no killing intent. Instead, it carried a clear soul power fluctuation that sought to make contact.

The next moment, a figure appeared silently not far in front of the carriage like a ghost. The newcomer was dressed in a tight-fitting outfit, with a deep and imposing aura; it was none other than the Serpent Spear Douluo, She Long. His gaze quickly swept across the carriage, finally settling on Qian Renxue, who had lifted the curtain. He then strode forward, knelt on one knee, and respectfully bowed: "Your subordinate, She Long, has come to pay respects to the young master on the orders of the Grand Elder!"

His appearance caused Dugu Yan and Ye Lingling to relax slightly, but they remained vigilant. Ning Rongrong, on the other hand, curiously observed this suddenly appearing Title Douluo from the Spirit Hall.

A hint of surprise flashed in Qian Renxue's eyes, but she quickly regained her composure: "Uncle She, please rise. Did Grandpa send you? What important matter do you have to discuss?"

She Long stood up, but did not answer immediately. Instead, he glanced at Feng Yao and the others in the car with a slightly questioning look.

"It's alright, everyone here is trustworthy," Qian Renxue said calmly.

She Long then took out the envelope from his pocket, which emitted a faint golden halo and was engraved with a six-winged angel totem, and presented it with both hands: "The High Priest has ordered me to personally deliver this letter to the young master. The High Priest instructed that if the young master arrives at Seagod Island and is able to meet the High Priest, he may pass on this letter on his behalf."

"Seagod Island? It also has a Grand Priest?" Qian Renxue was even more surprised. She took the envelope, and when her fingertips touched the warm, smooth material and the pure angelic holy power emanating from it, she immediately understood that this letter was extraordinary. This was no ordinary letter, but a special token containing the divine power of her grandfather, Qian Daoliu.

"What else did Grandpa say?" Qian Renxue gripped the envelope tightly and looked up to ask.

She Long respectfully replied, "The Grand Master only said that the overseas lands are fraught with danger and unpredictable dangers, and he hopes that the young master will be cautious in all matters."

"I understand. Thank you for bringing it all the way, Uncle She." She carefully put the letter away. "I'll tell Grandpa when I get back that I'll definitely deliver the letter to him and put his mind at ease."

"Yes! Your subordinate takes his leave!" She Long bowed again, and with a flicker, disappeared into the dense forest as he had come, as if he had never appeared.

The carriage fell silent. All eyes were on the peculiar letter in Qian Renxue's hand.

Qian Renxue gently stroked the angel totem on the envelope: "Grandpa sent this specially. Perhaps when we get to Seagod Island, this letter can save us some unnecessary trouble."

She carefully put the letter away, then looked up at Feng Yao: "Let's move on."

Feng Yao nodded, smiled slightly, and didn't ask any further questions. With a flick of the reins, the carriage started moving again, heading towards the ever-approaching Star Dou Great Forest.

A few days later, heading south, the official road gradually widened, and the surrounding scenery changed from densely populated to sparsely populated. The air began to be filled with the unique, damp scent of the Starry Sky Forest, a mixture of decaying leaves and spiritual plants.

However, just as their carriage reached the official road near the edge of the forest, Qian Renxue, who was sitting upright inside, suddenly opened her eyes, a hint of surprise and solemnity flashing in her bright golden pupils. The dormant angelic divine armor within her body began to tremble slightly on its own without warning, emitting waves of scorching and wary holy energy, as if it had encountered some extremely disgusting and blasphemous being that was growing wildly in the distance.

"Stop." Qian Renxue's cold voice carried an unquestionable tone.

The carriage stopped abruptly. Feng Yao was the first to notice her unusual behavior, and frowned as he asked, "Xue'er, what's wrong?"

Qian Renxue closed her eyes slightly, carefully sensing the strong warning emanating from the Angelic Armor, a warning rooted in divine power. She pointed towards the depths of the Star Dou Great Forest, her tone grave: "In that direction... an extremely evil, chaotic, yet strangely divine aura of slaughter is spreading wildly. It's... massacring! Countless lives are rapidly disappearing!"

She opened her eyes and looked at Feng Yao, her golden eyes filled with seriousness: "My angelic power has generated a strong rejection and warning about this. This is definitely not an ordinary soul beast uprising or a human soul hunting. That aura... is very dangerous and very strange."

Upon hearing this, Feng Yao's expression also turned serious. He trusted Qian Renxue's judgment, especially regarding the matter of divine power perception.

"Can you sense what it is?" Ye Lingling asked softly. Her senses were more acute, and she frowned slightly, clearly also sensing the unsettling stench of blood and oppression from afar.

“I can’t be sure,” Qian Renxue shook her head, “but it contains a very unsettling fragment of divinity, filled with the most primal desire to kill, and is definitely not a benevolent being.”

After a moment's thought, Feng Yao made a decisive decision: "Since we've encountered this, and Xue'er's divine equipment has given us such a warning, there must be a reason. Let's change course and go in to take a look! Be careful and be prepared to deal with any unexpected situations."

Everyone agreed with his decision and nodded in approval.

Qian Renxue closed her eyes again and sensed for a moment before pointing them in the clearest direction: "Over here, the source of the killing is constantly moving, but it's roughly in this area."

The five immediately abandoned the carriage, their figures unfurling like five ghostly shadows. They veered off the official road and rushed straight into the lush yet treacherous Starry Sky Forest, speeding towards the source of the bloodshed and slaughter. (End of Chapter)