Chapter 196 - 196: [DD2]: 196

Credits: Neopolitansoso Time flew by, and two months passed in the blink of an eye. One morning, Su Yu walked out of the trial grounds, his head held high and his demeanor brimming with confidence. Moments ago, he had successfully passed the fifth-level soul engineer certification exam using a fifth-level soul tool he crafted himself. He was now officially a fifth-level soul engineer. The difference between a fifth-level and a fourth-level soul engineer was significant, marking a qualitative leap in skill and prestige. This achievement came at the age of just twelve. A twelve-year-old fifth-level soul engineer wasn't merely rare—it was an unprecedented feat at the Sun Moon Royal Soul Engineering Academy, setting a record that spanned millennia. "Congratulations! You are now a fifth-level soul engineer. Here is your soul engineer badge," the examiner said, handing over a brand-new badge, his expression betraying a mix of awe and disbelief. Having witnessed Su Yu's performance throughout the exam, the examiner was deeply impressed. From his mastery of soul tool operation to the exceptional quality of the tools he designed, Su Yu's achievement was entirely legitimate. "Thank you, teacher," Su Yu said, accepting the badge. The badge, featuring a sun and moon motif as its base, was adorned with five radiant stars—a symbol of a fifth-level soul engineer. After putting on his new badge, Su Yu bid farewell to the examiner and returned to his fifth-year Class Four. Having passed the exam, Su Yu would soon leave his current class. This time, he would directly enter Illustrious Virtue Hall to study—a privilege reserved for its selected candidates. ... Back in Class Four, Lin Sheng'an was teaching. Not wanting to disrupt the lesson, Su Yu quietly entered through the back door. He wasn't there to attend class but rather to make an appearance before officially moving on. Technically, he was no longer a fifth-year student after passing the certification exam. Taking a seat in the back row, Su Yu began listening to the lecture. While Su Yu had already mastered the content on his own, Lin Sheng'an had a knack for making complex ideas easy to understand, showcasing his skill as a teacher. After half an hour, the bell rang, signaling the end of class. Lin Sheng'an concluded his lecture and then turned his gaze to Su Yu, seated at the back, his eyes narrowing slightly. "A fifth-level soul engineer badge—it seems you've passed the certification exam," Lin Sheng'an remarked. At this, many students turned to Su Yu, their eyes filled with astonishment. "I owe it to your guidance, teacher," Su Yu replied with a polite smile. "I didn't teach you much. It's your hard work that brought you this far," Lin Sheng'an said, shaking his head. He was a traditionalist who never took undue credit. While he had taught Su Yu, he knew his contributions were limited and hadn't offered Su Yu any special treatment. Su Yu's success as a fifth-level soul engineer was entirely his own. "Since you're now a fifth-level soul engineer, you no longer need to attend my classes," Lin Sheng'an said. "I hope to see you in Illustrious Virtue Hall in a few days." "Thank you, teacher," Su Yu said with a smile. seaʀᴄh thё nôvelFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. With a nod, Lin Sheng'an packed up his materials and left the room. No sooner had Lin Sheng'an exited than Keke bounced over to Su Yu. "Wow, Su Yu, you're amazing! You became a fifth-level soul engineer so quickly!" "You've made history at the academy, haven't you?" Keke's bright eyes sparkled with admiration. Truly, it was incredible. In such a short time, Su Yu had advanced to the fifth level on his own merits. Keke, by contrast, had spent two years in the fifth grade and still wasn't confident about her certification. She estimated it would take at least another year before she could hope to achieve what Su Yu had already done. This was the stark difference between ordinary people and geniuses. Keke couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy at Su Yu's talent. "It's not that big of a deal," Su Yu said, waving his hand dismissively. At that moment, Juzi also approached. With her natural and youthful beauty, she exuded a charming simplicity. "Congratulations on becoming a fifth-level soul engineer," Juzi said with a smile. "So, you'll be studying in Illustrious Virtue Hall next, right?" She hadn't forgotten that Su Yu, as an Illustrious Virtue Hall candidate, would gain direct admission upon achieving fifth-level certification—a privilege that inspired envy in others. Of course, Su Yu's talent more than justified such treatment. "Probably," Su Yu replied with a smile, neither confirming nor denying. Juzi looked at him with envy. "You're heading to Illustrious Virtue Hall, while the rest of us don't even know if we'll ever get there." Juzi's talent wasn't exceptional, and she didn't have much confidence in her ability to qualify for Illustrious Virtue Hall. "As long as you work hard, you'll have a chance," Su Yu encouraged. "Maybe," Juzi replied, clearly unimpressed by Su Yu's optimistic words. She was all too aware of how much talent mattered. Effort might be important, but talent is even more so. It's harsh, but that's reality. Gathering her thoughts, Juzi smiled slightly and said, "To celebrate you becoming a fifth-level soul engineer and your upcoming entrance into Illustrious Virtue Hall, how about we have a gathering? It can double as a farewell party since we probably won't see much of you once you're there." Hearing this, Keke's mood also dampened a bit. True, once Su Yu entered Illustrious Virtue Hall, they might barely see each other a few times a year. Even though they were all in the same academy, the place was enormous. The distance between Illustrious Virtue Hall and the main teaching buildings was quite significant. Just imagining not seeing Su Yu's handsome face regularly made Keke feel regretful. Though Su Yu had a girlfriend, that didn't stop him from being eye candy. Without him, the fifth-year Class Four would lose one of its most dazzling sights. "Well… alright, but I already made plans to have dinner with Meng'er," Su Yu admitted. This time, he wasn't making excuses—he had arranged to eat with Meng Hongchen. Every couple of days, they would share lunch or dinner together. Being deeply in love, Meng Hongchen would feel uncomfortable if she didn't get to spend time with him. Even though they were often apart, they made it a point to meet every two days. Once Su Yu entered Illustrious Virtue Hall, their time together would increase significantly. "Then invite Miss Meng to join us. The more, the merrier," Juzi suggested. "Alright, but I also have a roommate in my dorm." "You mean that handsome guy who was with you during the preliminary team selection?" Keke asked, her bright eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Yes, that's him. Why?" "Then you must invite him too," Keke said, rubbing her hands eagerly. Then, she asked cautiously, "By the way, does he have a girlfriend?" "No, he doesn't. Why? Are you interested in him?" Su Yu asked, a mischievous smile creeping onto his face. "Is that… not allowed?" Keke blinked her wide eyes innocently. "Of course, it's allowed. Whatever makes you happy," Su Yu said, barely holding back a laugh. Yet another person was misled by Wang Dong'er's appearance. "Well, honestly, I like you more, but since you're with Miss Meng, I'll settle for second best," Keke sighed dramatically, feigning regret. When it came to looks, Su Yu was more her type. "Hey, don't be like that. You should go for Wang Dong instead," Su Yu said, waving his hands. He had no romantic interest in Keke. "What do you mean by that?" Keke pouted, stomping her foot in frustration. Was he rejecting her? "Nothing at all. I just think Wang Dong suits you better. Haha!" Su Yu teased with a laugh. "Hmph!" Keke huffed, puffing up her cheeks in mock anger. After some more playful banter, they agreed to have their farewell dinner by the lake that evening. With that settled, Su Yu left the classroom. ... Dorm Room 308 After lunch with Meng Hongchen, Su Yu stretched lazily as he walked into his dorm room. Wang Dong'er had returned long ago and was now engrossed in a storybook, passing the time. Books filled with fantastical tales and curious anecdotes were popular across the Douluo Continent, and many students liked to read them for leisure. Wang Dong'er was no exception. Noticing Su Yu's return, Wang Dong'er didn't even glance up, clearly captivated by the story. "What's so fascinating?" Su Yu asked casually, placing a hand on Wang Dong's shoulder as he leaned over. "The new book from the Library—it's amazing," Wang Dong'er mumbled without looking away. "Oh? Let me take a look," Su Yu said, taking the book and flipping through a few pages. "What is this?" Su Yu frowned and turned to the cover to check the title. The Love Between Night and Moon? "What even is this?" "You wouldn't understand. It's about a hundred-thousand-year soul beast named Night who transforms into human form and falls in love with a girl named Moon. The story is so moving," Wang Dong'er explained earnestly. Su Yu: "…" How moving could it be? Just hearing about it made him think it was probably a cheesy romance novel. This kind of story might fool young girls, but what kind of guy would enjoy this? Right, Wang Dong'er is a girl—no wonder she liked reading this kind of stuff. Feeling a little exasperated, Su Yu put the book back and reminded her, "You should focus more on your cultivation. Stop wasting your time with these random stories." "Yeah, yeah, I got it. But look who's talking—you're the one always busy flirting. You have no right to lecture me," Wang Dong'er pouted and muttered. If Su Yu wasn't constantly cozying up to Meng Hongchen, would Wang Dong'er need these books to pass the time? "Hmph!" "Do you think you can compare to me?" Su Yu retorted, his tone casual. "At least I don't let it get in the way of important things. I've just passed the fifth-level Soul Engineer assessment, whereas someone I know is still loafing around in the third year." "What?!" Wang Dong'er was so shocked that the book in her hand fell to the ground. Ignoring it, she turned to stare at Su Yu with wide eyes. "You've become a fifth-level Soul Engineer?" "Yup. In just a few days, I'll be starting at Illustrious Virtue Hall. Unlike someone who's still goofing off in the third year," Su Yu said meaningfully. Wang Dong'er's heart sank. Looking at the badge on Su Yu's chest, she realized it was true—Su Yu had become a fifth-level Soul Engineer. How long had it been? This guy had leveled up again. Unbelievable! A sense of urgency surged within Wang Dong'er. Su Yu's progress was too fast, leaving her in the dust. "Hmph, I'll make it into Illustrious Virtue Hall sooner or later too," Wang Dong'er said, refusing to back down. "Oh? I'll be waiting to see it," Su Yu replied with a smirk. "Hmph!" Motivated by Su Yu's taunts, Wang Dong'er tossed the book aside and began cultivating in earnest. If she didn't train seriously, how could she ever catch up to Su Yu? Seeing Wang Dong'er finally putting in the effort, Su Yu smiled faintly. His teasing had only been to rekindle Wang Dong'er's motivation for cultivation. Wang Dong'er had been diligent before, but ever since their return from the competition, she'd grown a bit lazy—perhaps because her level had increased so quickly. While not completely slacking off, her training wasn't as intense as it used to be. Su Yu, caring for his friend, couldn't help but give her a push. Pulling over a chair, Su Yu picked up a book about Soul Tool mechanics and began studying again. Around five in the afternoon, as the setting sun bathed the sky in hues of orange and pink, Su Yu closed his book and woke Wang Dong'er. Wang Dong'er opened her eyes, looking puzzled. "Let's go. We're invited to a lakeside dinner tonight. Join us," Su Yu said. "A dinner party?" Wang Dong'er asked, confused. "It's to celebrate me becoming a fifth-level Soul Engineer. Two classmates arranged it," Su Yu explained. "You have other friends?" Wang Dong'er asked, surprised. Su Yu wasn't exactly a social butterfly—his circle of acquaintances wasn't large. "They're two classmates. After two months together, we've become somewhat familiar. They extended a kind invitation, and it'd be rude to refuse. Are you coming?" "Is Meng Hongchen going?" "Of course!" "Then I'm in." Su Yu rolled his eyes. "Hurry up and get ready. They're girls—you shouldn't keep them waiting." "Girls?" Wang Dong'er's interest was piqued. She immediately perked up and began tidying herself efficiently. A moment later, Wang Dong'er stood ready—fresh and clean, exuding a sunny charm. Her appearance was undeniably handsome, second only to Su Yu's, "Dressed so sharply—are you going to a matchmaking event?" Su Yu teased. "Mind your own business!" Wang Dong'er tossed a glare over her shoulder and strode out of the dorm. Chuckling, Su Yu shut the door and followed her out. Just as they left the dorm, Meng Hongchen arrived, jogging toward them. Dressed in a simple white floral dress and white flats, with her smooth calves peeking out beneath the hem, Meng Hongchen looked refreshingly elegant. This fresh, unpretentious look lacked her usual regal air but exuded an approachable, girl-next-door charm. Seeing her like this for the first time, Su Yu couldn't help but feel a flicker of amazement. "Yu~" Meng Hongchen's eyes lit up when she saw Su Yu, and she ran over excitedly. Su Yu caught her waist with one arm, unreservedly showering her with praise. "Meng'er, you look stunning today." He had seen Meng Hongchen in countless outfits, but today's simple style tugged at his heartstrings more than any of her previous looks.