"If Rongrong can't use the soul bone, then Fengzhi should absorb it immediately!"
"Gemstone-type ten-thousand-year soul bones are truly rare."
Though disappointed Ning Rongrong couldn't utilize it, the Sword Douluo recognized its perfect suitability for Ning Fengzhi. Gemstone-type bones could even accelerate soul power cultivation for compatible martial souls.
Ning Fengzhi carefully examined the bone resting on his palm.
Its intricate engravings emitted soft radiance, the distinctive headpiece design resembling luxurious ornamentation.
"Feels somewhat wasteful." He sighed. "Even after absorbing this thirty-thousand-year bone, I'll remain at level 79."
Having reached his cultivation limit, he'd only gain an additional skill - though its nature remained unknown since Tang Hao hadn't specified.
He possessed enough integrity not to test it on some random soul master before killing them to retrieve the bone.
"This bone can create a displacement space while amplifying allies' and weakening enemies' mental power."
"Combined with our clan's Divided Mind Control, it might develop other applications - specifics require experimentation."
Drawing from original story knowledge and zhenqi perception, Ning Rongrong outlined its capabilities.
In the original timeline, this Illusionary Wisdom Skull had been utilized masterfully - integrating illusions, protection, amplification, weakening, ally relocation, enemy obstruction, even altering ally skill trajectories.
Apart from direct attacks, it functioned as an all-purpose tool.
Its only weakness was relatively low age. If enemies detected and destroyed the illusory space, only the mental amplification/weakening effects remained.
For Seven Treasure Glazed Tile users mastering Divided Mind Control, proper utilization could surpass even hundred-thousand-year bones' value.
"Absorb it, Fengzhi!" The Sword Douluo grew increasingly convinced of its suitability. Ideally, Ning Rongrong should have received it, but since she couldn't...
"Since both Uncle Sword and Rongrong insist, further refusal would be disingenuous."
Calming his breathing, Ning Fengzhi manifested his Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Pagoda as soul rings emerged sequentially. The floating skull gradually aligned with his forehead.
Guided by soul power, its glow intensified until finally merging into his brow.
His soul power surged noticeably, though ring restrictions kept him at level 79.
After ten minutes of integration, his martial soul and rings vanished as he opened his eyes.
"Remarkable. Just as Rongrong described - I've already conceived multiple applications."
Regret tinged his voice as he added, "How I wish Rongrong could have absorbed this."
"Father, enough pointless talk. Share the exciting details - like how it benefits Grandpa Sword and Grandpa Bone?"
"Immensely." Ning Fengzhi elaborated on the Illusory Space's combat applications, thrilling the Sword Douluo.
"Magnificent! With this, that old skeleton and I could elevate our combat effectiveness significantly!"
The thirty-thousand-year defensive left arm bone proved more problematic - their clan had few defensive-type soul masters, all relatively weak. Ultimately, Ning Fengzhi stored it reluctantly.
Having promised Tang Hao to depart promptly, they prepared to leave Notting City.
At the city gates, an luxurious carriage drawn by their undercover Soul Ancestor departed. Soundproofing ensured private conversation as they discussed sensitive matters.
"Straight to the Heaven Dou capital?" Ning Rongrong inquired.
"No, first return to Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan to handle affairs. The apprenticeship ceremony isn't imminent."
"Father, Grandpa Sword... what are your views on the Spirit Hall?" Resigned to the inevitable apprenticeship, Ning Rongrong probed their stances.
"Rongrong's interested in the Spirit Hall?" The Sword Douluo seemed puzzled.
"Yes." She nodded. "Truthfully, my impression isn't negative."
"They provide free martial soul awakenings and support disadvantaged youth."
"That's just buying loyalty with imperial taxes," the Sword Douluo remarked flatly.
"Precisely why both empires grow increasingly anxious," Ning Fengzhi sighed. Everyone recognized the Spirit Hall's tactics, yet none dared intervene.
"I judge actions, not intentions." After thoughtful silence, she ventured carefully: "If the Spirit Hall sought to assimilate our clan... how should we respond?"
Both men fell silent at her unexpected question.
Finally Ning Fengzhi answered: "We'd cross that bridge when we come to it. If resistance proves impossible... we'd have no choice."
"I see..." Changing tack, she asked the Sword Douluo: "If they invited you - alongside our clan - would you join?"
His father Chen Jianjun had died by Qian Daoliu's hand - though only after returning for a final meeting. Notably, the Sword Douluo seemed more proud than resentful regarding this.
"Theoretically no... but if the Spirit Hall subjugated all seven great sects... we'd reconsider then."
"Understood." Internally relieved, Ning Rongrong had ascertained their flexible stances, helping clarify future directions.
First priority remained assessing Xue Qinghe's true nature.
Whether aligning with Shrek Academy, the Spirit Hall, or strengthening their clan to stand above all - decisions could wait. Time remained on their side.