Chereads / Douluo Dao : Soul Archer: The Bow of Destiny / Chapter 37 - The Essence of Elements The Initiation

Chapter 37 - The Essence of Elements The Initiation

The sun had just begun to rise, casting a golden hue over the tranquil training grounds in Nuoding academy. Feng Xuan stood at the center. Shivarjuna's presence, though unseen, was a tangible force that enveloped him.

"Feng Xuan," Shivarjuna's voice echoed in his mind, "today, we embark on a crucial phase of your training—mastering elemental control. This is not merely an enhancement of your archery skills but a fundamental step towards wielding the divine astra."

Feng Xuan's brows furrowed in curiosity. "Elemental control? How does it relate to my archery?"

Shivarjuna's tone was patient and wise. "The astra are not ordinary weapons; they are embodiments of elemental forces. To harness their true power, you must learn to manipulate and channel these elements through your martial arts and bow techniques."

Feng Xuan "But in douluo continent one cannot master element on whim, One needed appropriate soul spirit or spirit ring to learnt it."

"So, what do you think element of vijaya?" asked Shivarjuana.

"Is it not sun? Or Fire?" said Feng Xuan with uncertainty.

"No, Vijaya, unlike most martial souls, is capable of channeling five elements: fire, water, earth, air, and spirit.. Sun was power of my brother Karna due to him being Suryaputra. So you don't have to worry about mastering element, also even if you don't had element affinity it can be nurture by some herbs or some mantra." Said Shivarjuna.

Feng Xuan understandably said "Master, how can I start with mastering element?"

As Shivarjuna began his teachings, the air around Feng Xuan seemed to hum with energy. "There are five primary elements you must master: fire, water, earth, air, and spirit. Each element has its own essence and properties, and your ability to control them will determine your prowess as an archer."

Feng Xuan nodded, absorbing the information. "What makes Vijaya different, master? Why can it channel all five elements?"

Shivarjuna's voice was filled with reverence. "Vijaya was crafted by Vishvakarma for Lord Shiva and later wielded by Karna. It is a bow of divine origin, imbued with the power to harness all elemental forces. This makes it a unique and formidable weapon, but only if its wielder can master these elements."

Shivarjuna continued, "Fire represents passion and destruction. It is both a weapon and a tool for transformation. Water embodies adaptability and fluidity. It can heal and destroy with equal ease. Earth signifies stability and strength, grounding you in your purpose. Air symbolizes freedom and intuition, guiding your arrows with unseen hands. Lastly, spirit connects you to the divine and enhances your overall elemental control, making your bond with Vijaya even stronger."

The first exercise was to attune Feng Xuan's senses to the elements. Shivarjuna instructed him to sit cross-legged and close his eyes. "Breathe deeply and focus. Feel the energy of each element around you."

Feng Xuan did as he was told. As he breathed in, he imagined the warmth of fire, the coolness of water, the solidity of earth, the lightness of air, and the ethereal presence of spirit. It was an arduous process, requiring immense concentration and patience.

"Good. Now, envision these elements within you, merging with your spirit," Shivarjuna guided.

Days turned into weeks as Feng Xuan meditated and practiced. Slowly, he began to feel a shift within him. The fire's warmth ignited a fierce determination, the water's cool flow brought clarity, the earth's solidity grounded his resolve, the air's lightness fostered his intuition, and the spirit's presence connected him deeply to Vijaya.

With his senses attuned, Shivarjuna introduced practical exercises. One day, he directed Feng Xuan to a secluded clearing. "Here, you will learn to channel these elements into your archery."

First was fire. Shivarjuna instructed, "Draw your bow and focus on the heat within you. Channel that energy into your arrow."

Feng Xuan drew the bowstring, feeling the heat rise from his core. As he released the arrow, it blazed through the air, leaving a trail of fire. Yet, the arrow missed its mark.

"Do not be disheartened, Feng Xuan. Controlling the elements takes time and practice," Shivarjuna reassured.

Next was water. Shivarjuna led Feng Xuan to a riverbank. "Feel the fluidity of water. Let it guide your movements."

Feng Xuan dipped his hand into the water, feeling its gentle flow. He knocked an arrow, drawing on the water's essence. This time, the arrow flew smoothly, striking the target with precision.

Throughout the training, Shivarjuna offered wisdom and encouragement. "Remember, Feng Xuan, the elements are not just forces to be wielded but allies to be respected. You must harmonize with them, not dominate them."

Feng Xuan's progress was slow but steady. He struggled with earth, finding it difficult to channel its solidity into his shots. "It feels too rigid, too unyielding," he confessed.

Shivarjuna's voice was soothing. "Earth is about balance and strength. Find your center, and the earth will respond."

In moments of frustration, Shivarjuna's words were a balm. "Patience, Feng Xuan. Mastery is a journey, not a destination. Each struggle brings you closer to understanding."

One day, Feng Xuan sighed deeply after another failed attempt. "Master, will I ever master these elements? I feel like I'm constantly falling short," he admitted, his voice tinged with doubt.

Shivarjuna's response was firm yet gentle. "Every master was once a beginner, Feng Xuan. Your perseverance will lead to progress. Trust in the process and in yourself."

One fateful day, as Feng Xuan practiced air control, he felt a breakthrough. He had been trying to harness the element's lightness to guide his arrows. Suddenly, he felt a shift in the wind, as if it were answering his call. He released the arrow, and it flew with uncanny precision, guided by an unseen breeze.

"Excellent, Feng Xuan! You are beginning to understand," Shivarjuna praised.

With renewed determination, Feng Xuan continued his training. He learned to ignite his arrows with fire, create water barriers, channel earth's strength into his shots, and let the air guide his aim. Each element became an extension of his will, enhancing his archery to unprecedented levels.

The most challenging element to master was spirit. Shivarjuna explained, "Spirit connects you to the divine and amplifies your control over the other elements. It requires the deepest concentration and the purest intent."

Feng Xuan meditated for days, seeking a connection with the spirit element. He felt its elusive energy, like a whisper at the edge of his consciousness. One night, in a moment of clarity, he sensed the spirit's presence fully. He drew an arrow, channeling the combined power of all five elements. As he released it, the arrow radiated a brilliant light, striking the target with unparalleled force and precision.

As the sun set over the training grounds, Feng Xuan stood with his bow, reflecting on his journey. Shivarjuna's presence felt closer than ever.

"Thank you, Shivarjuna. Your guidance has been invaluable," Feng Xuan said, his voice filled with gratitude.

"The path of mastery is long and arduous, but you have made great strides. Continue to hone your skills, respect the elements, and uphold justice. You are destined for greatness, Feng Xuan," Shivarjuna replied, his voice filled with pride.

"And what of the astra? Am I ready to wield them?" Feng Xuan inquired, his eyes shining with determination.

Shivarjuna's voice was calm but resolute. "You have taken the first crucial steps. The true mastery of the astra will come with time and continued dedication. Remember, the journey of a warrior is everlasting."

And so, Feng Xuan's journey continued, a testament to the power of discipline, wisdom, and the unyielding spirit of a true warrior.