Douluo Dalu: I have a Soul Beast Clone

At first, when Yu Tianheng started showing interest in Dugu Yan, he behaved politely and was somewhat likable. Dugu Yan also declined his advances gracefully, maintaining civility between them.

But soon, Yu Tianheng seemed to lose his senses, persistently pestering her every few days with invitations for meals, strolls, or sightseeing. Dugu Yan understood his intentions clearly and resolutely rejected him each time.

However, no matter how many times she refused or explicitly stated that she already had someone in her heart, Yu Tianheng just wouldn't give up. His relentless harassment had pushed Dugu Yan to her limit.

If not for Yu Tianheng's status as a member of the Blue Lightning Tyrant Dragon Clan, Dugu Yan would have already taught him a lesson he wouldn't forget. She might not have beaten him to the point of incapacitation, but at least she would have ensured he spent some time recovering in bed.

Since Yu Tianheng hailed from a powerful clan, Dugu Yan tried to tolerate him as much as she could. When tolerance was impossible, she avoided him.

But because of his relentless pursuit, Dugu Yan's impression of Yu Tianheng had now reached rock bottom.

Yu Tianheng, however, was well aware of Dugu Yan's dislike and her feelings for someone else. But he didn't mind. He believed that once she heard the secret he was about to reveal, she would lose all hope in her so-called love. When that happened, he could swoop in and take advantage of the situation.

"You're in love with Li Chang'an, aren't you?" Yu Tianheng asked directly.

Dugu Yan felt flustered at having her feelings exposed so plainly. But she didn't let it show. With her usual composed demeanor, she openly admitted, "Yes, so what? He's way better than you. I will never like you."

"Better than me? Hah!"

Yu Tianheng let out a mocking laugh, then leaned closer. His tone grew colder as he said, "That's because you don't know who he really is. You've been deceived all along. He's just toying with your feelings!"

"You're lying!"

Dugu Yan's aura flared, her snake-like spirit shadow flashing behind her. Her eyes transformed into vertical snake pupils, exuding an intimidating and icy pressure.

Despite the suffocating aura, Yu Tianheng remained calm. With unwavering confidence, he continued, "I'm not lying. If I didn't have solid proof, why would I dare say this to your face?"

"Do you even know Li Chang'an's true identity?"

"Speak!"

Dugu Yan's snake-like pupils glinted dangerously, as though she were ready to strike at any moment. It was clear that if Yu Tianheng's next words proved to be baseless accusations, he would face her wrath.

"He's the fiancé of Princess Xue Ke, the imperial son-in-law, and the future Prince Consort!"

Each statement hit Dugu Yan like a hammer, shattering her composure. She staggered back, her aura dissipating. Weakly, she protested, "No... That's impossible... You're lying. He can't be the Prince Consort. There's no way!"

"Why would I lie about something so easily verified?" Yu Tianheng sneered. "If you don't believe me, you can ask the Three Teaching Committee Deans. They won't lie to you."

Without waiting for more, Dugu Yan turned and dashed toward the committee's office.

Yu Tianheng watched her retreating figure with a smug grin. To him, once Dugu Yan learned the truth and her illusions shattered, she would turn her back on Li Chang'an, leaving an opportunity for him to step in.

Winning over Dugu Yan would not only satisfy his personal desires but also bring the support of Dugu Bo, her grandfather and a Title Douluo. This could significantly boost his standing within his clan, increasing his chances of becoming the next clan leader.

For Yu Tianheng, pursuing Dugu Yan was a move that offered countless benefits with no downsides.

At the Teaching Committee Office

When Dugu Yan barged into the office, only Meng Shenji and Bai Baoshan, two of the three Deans, were present. The third was out with Li Chang'an, assisting him in obtaining his third spirit ring.

Dream God Machine raised an eyebrow at the unexpected intrusion but did not scold her. Instead, with his usual gentle demeanor, he asked, "Child, is something troubling you?"

His kindness was largely due to her being the granddaughter of Dugu Bo. Otherwise, such an interruption would have been met with a stern reprimand.

"Deans..."

Dugu Yan suppressed the turmoil in her heart, barely keeping her voice steady as she asked, "I need to know… Is Li Chang'an the Prince Consort?"

Her question made Meng Shenji and Bai Baoshan exchange a knowing glance. They were seasoned and perceptive, immediately recognizing the implications behind her inquiry.

"Yes, it's true," Meng Shenji replied, stroking his beard. "Chang'an is highly regarded by His Majesty, Emperor Xue Ye. He's been appointed as the fiancé of Princess Xue Ke and granted the title of Marquis."

Hearing the confirmation, Dugu Yan's eyes filled with tears that she could no longer hold back. Without another word, she turned and fled the office.

Meng Shenji Machine and Bai Baoshan watched her leave, sighing.

"Young people and their entanglements," Dream God Machine murmured. "Perhaps it's better for her to know sooner rather than later."

The two Deans were well aware of the budding relationship between Li Chang'an and Dugu Yan. If not for her connection to Dugu Bo, they might have intervened sooner.

After all, a Prince Consort was traditionally expected to remain faithful to the Princess. Any dalliances or emotional ties to others could bring dishonor to the royal family. While Li Chang'an's extraordinary talent had earned him some leniency, even he could not disregard imperial customs entirely.

The royal family's restraint so far was largely due to Li Chang'an's potential as a future pillar of the empire. Otherwise, they would have cut off his association with Dugu Yan the moment it began.

Moreover, Dugu Yan was not just any woman. With a Title Douluo for a grandfather, she was hardly the type to settle for being a mere concubine or lover. This made the situation all the more delicate.

From the royal family's perspective, Li Chang'an's flirtation with Dugu Yan wasn't an issue as long as Princess Xue Ke's position remained secure. But given Dugu Yan's strong-willed nature and her prominent background, the situation had to be handled carefully to avoid unnecessary complications.

(End of Chapter)