Three months ago, within the shadowy halls of the Body Sect's headquarters nestled in the territory of the Douluo Coalition, Du Boqin and Du Bojing convened in hushed tones. The recent incident involving the poison needle had left Du Bojing, a titled Douluo renowned for his impregnable defense, gravely wounded.
"It was a weapon of subtlety and deadly precision, one that bypassed even his formidable defenses, raising suspicions of foul play orchestrated by the Riyue Empire," murmured Du Boqin, his brow furrowed in contemplation.
Du Bojing nodded grimly, his injuries bearing witness to the cunning of their adversaries. "And why did they withhold their titled Douluos in the last border war? Their absence was conspicuous."
"They must be preparing something," speculated Du Boqin, suspicion narrowing his eyes. "The timing of these events is too precise to be mere coincidence."
Silence hung heavy between them, broken only by the distant echoes of martial training in the sect's courtyard. Finally, Du Boqin spoke, his voice low but resolute. "We need eyes within the Riyue Empire's Royal Academy. Someone to uncover their plans, their secrets."
Du Bojing nodded again, understanding the gravity of the task. "But our last spy was discovered and silenced. Feng Long... he appears as a soul engineering student. He could blend in, learn their ways, and report back to us."
(Since Feng Long had been asking Du Bojing numerous questions about soul-guiding tools, it was clear that Feng was deeply interested in the soul engineering profession)
"He is our best chance," echoed Du Boqin thoughtfully. "Make the arrangements discreetly. His mission commences the moment he turns ten and steps into the academy."
With a solemn nod, Du Bojing began preparing to dispatch Feng Long on this perilous mission as soon as he reached the age of ten, knowing that the fate of the Douluo Coalition might hinge upon the secrets he could uncover within the walls of the prestigious Riyue Empire Royal Academy.
Meanwhile, presently, Feng Long was learning about soul bones and why they were not utilized by the members of the Body Sect.
"Soul bones are precious and rare items that significantly enhance a soul master's abilities," explained Instructor Mei.
"They are typically found in powerful soul beasts, and acquiring one often involves significant risk and challenge," she continued.
"Our Body Sect, with numerous unique cultivation methods and strengths, does not rely on soul bones to the same extent as other factions and sects who provide soul bones for their capable students. We focus more on specialized techniques and the inherent strength of our bodies rather than the external enhancement provided by soul bones," Mei Ling stated proudly.
Mei Ling then looked at Feng Long and remarked, "Although, if you do get lucky and find a suitable soul bone, you can integrate it to enhance your martial abilities and battle prowess."
"Soul Masters integrate soul bones with their martial soul to amplify their abilities. Soul bones can enhance the effectiveness and strength of Body techniques and abilities used by Soul Masters," Mei explained.
"Each soul bone is unique to the individual and plays a significant role in defining their combat style and capabilities. Acquiring and utilizing powerful soul bones often allows Soul Masters to advance in ranks and become stronger," Mei Ling instructed.
As Feng Long attended classes with his seniors, an unknown instructor suddenly appeared and asked for Feng to be excused for the rest of the class.
The unknown instructor stood before the class, his features obscured by a mask that concealed his face, lending an air of mystery. Despite the mask, his bulky frame hinted at years of physical training and battle-hardened strength. His slightly wrinkled eyes suggested a middle-aged man who had seen his share of challenges and victories. His presence exuded a sense of mastery, as if he commanded not only respect but also a wealth of knowledge and experience in martial combat.
"Follow me," the unknown instructor said as he walked towards the direction of the Body Sect's headquarters.
Feng became puzzled by the situation and stared blankly for a moment, then immediately began following after the instructor, who looked back to ensure Feng was following.
(The instructor guided Feng next to the Sect's grand hall where there was sect master's chamber)
In the serene confines of the sect master's chamber, where the scent of incense mingled with the echoes of Body arts training, Sect Master Du Bojing sat in quiet contemplation.
Feng Long, a promising disciple with a keen intellect and steady resolve, had captured his attention for quite some time. Today, under the flickering light of oil lamps, Du Bojing's decision weighed heavy as he awaited Feng Long's arrival.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue across the courtyard, Feng Long entered the sect master's chamber. His youthful face bore traces of determination and curiosity, tempered by the solemnity of the moment.
"Feng Long," Du Bojing began, his voice a deep rumble that filled the room, "come, sit."
Obeying with a mixture of eagerness and reverence, Feng Long settled before the sect master, eyes wide with anticipation. Du Bojing studied him for a moment, observing the youthful energy that radiated from the boy.
"You have proven yourself dedicated and astute," Du Bojing continued, his gaze piercing yet kind. "In less than four years' time, when you reach the age of ten, you shall be considered for a crucial role within our sect."
Feng Long's brow furrowed slightly, his mind racing to comprehend the weight of Du Bojing's words. "What role, Master?" he ventured cautiously.
Du Bojing's expression softened marginally, a rare glimmer of pride in his eyes. "Feng Long, you have been selected as a candidate for the role of spy," he announced evenly. "Specifically, you will infiltrate the Riyue Empire Royal Academy under the guise of a student studying soul engineering."
The revelation hung in the air, mingling with the faint scent of sandalwood. Feng Long's breath caught in his throat, realization dawning upon him like the breaking of a new day. "Me? A spy?" he murmured incredulously.
Du Bojing nodded solemnly. "Yes, Feng Long. Your intelligence, diligence, and ability to blend in among scholars will serve our sect well. The knowledge you will gather is crucial to safeguarding our Douluo coalition and securing our future."
Feng Long's heart swelled with a mixture of honor and apprehension. To be entrusted with such a mission at his tender age was both daunting and exhilarating. He knew the challenges ahead would test not only his skills but also his loyalty to the Body Sect.
With newfound resolve, Feng Long bowed deeply to Sect Master Du Bojing, a gesture of acceptance and commitment. "I will not disappoint you, Master," he vowed earnestly.
Du Bojing's nod was approving, a silent acknowledgment of the weighty responsibility now placed upon the young disciple's shoulders.
"Prepare yourself, Feng Long," he advised gently. "Your journey begins now, in mind and spirit."
As Feng Long departed the sect master's chamber, his thoughts raced with visions of the academy, of secrets to uncover, and of the path that lay ahead. With each step, he carried the mantle of a spy-in-training, destined to navigate the intricate web of knowledge and intrigue that awaited him in the Riyue Empire Royal Academy.
Next morning...
In the tranquil halls of the Body Sect, nestled amidst mist-shrouded Forests, Feng Long, a precocious six-year-old disciple, harbored ambitions far beyond his tender years. His fascination with soul-guiding weapons, the prized trophies of the sect, ignited a curiosity that burned brighter than the sect's eternal flames.
Dressed in azure robes, Feng Long stood before Sect Leader Du Bojing, his eyes ablaze with determination. "Master Du," he began, his voice steady despite his youth, "may I request permission to study the soul-guiding weapons of the Riyue Empire displayed in our hall?"
Du Bojing, renowned for his wisdom and foresight, regarded the young disciple with a mix of surprise and contemplation. "Feng Long," he spoke softly, "such knowledge is not lightly entrusted. Why do you seek this path?"
With unwavering resolve, Feng Long explained his plan—a plan born from clandestine whispers and childhood dreams. "Master, I wish to infiltrate the Royal Academy under the guise of a genius soul engineering student," he confessed earnestly.
Du Bojing, his expression unreadable, considered the implications. The Body Sect, renowned for its martial prowess and ancient secrets, knew that grooming a spy, even one as young as Feng Long, could prove pivotal in safeguarding the Douluo continent's future.
After a long pause, Du Bojing nodded, a rare smile gracing his lips. "Very well, Feng Long," he finally replied, "you shall embark on this path. But remember, the shadows are treacherous. Carry our sect's honor as you tread."
(Guardian Shu seemed grumpy inside Feng's spiritual sea)
Feng Long asked, "What's the problem, Gramps?"
Old Shu answered, "Why were you showing such respect and courtesy to Du Bojing? You were acting rude in front of him before, no?"
Feng chuckled. "Haha, it's because he is the Sect Master and I have acknowledged him as my master. Also, as I am now a formal disciple of the sect, I have to show respect to Master Du. Are you jealous?"
"Hmph, I'm not that petty of a person, you know," said Grandpa Shu with a frown.
"Also, Master Du has taught me a lot of battle techniques. You haven't even done that. You don't explain anything to me at all," said Feng Long with a plotting face.
"Well, what do you want to know?" asked Guardian Shu.
"I want to know how to be stronger," answered Feng Long.
"Okay then, will you show me respect if I tell you a secret way that can help you become much stronger than you are now?" asked Guardian Shu.
"Yes, of course, Grandpa," said Feng with a devious hidden smile.
"Alright then, tell me what you know about soul power," asked Old Shu.
(Alongside the awakening of the martial soul, there is also the awakening of soul power )
'Soul power is the energy derived from the foundation of the martial soul, primarily absorbing the essence and elemental power of heaven and earth. The quantity of soul power a person possesses determines their strength as a soul master,'said Feng Long with a proud face.
"You are right. Then, what about spiritual power?" asked Old Shu again.
"About spiritual power? Um, I know that mental power can be used to exert greater control over one's soul energy and even directly affect another person's Spiritual Sea," said Feng.
Guardian Shu began explaining, "Mental power is used to control one's emotions and enhance focus and perception of the surroundings. With further cultivation, it can be utilized to exert greater control over one's soul skills and even directly affect another person's Spiritual Sea. Spiritual power also aids in improving the soul master's thinking or providing inspiration."
Guardian Shu continued, "The Spiritual Sea, also known as Upper Dantian, is a realm situated within the mind of a soul master and soul beast. It is located right behind your jade eyes and serves as the storage space for your spiritual power and parts of your soul. You know that to utilize your jade eyes, you change soul power into spiritual power and then release it through your jade eyes, right?"
"Yes, I guess. So?" said Feng Long while scratching his head.
"Then, why not try utilizing both your soul power and spiritual energy at the same time since you possess very strong soul power and spiritual strength?" asked Old Shu.
Feng Long, full of excitement, asked, "Are you saying it's possible to use both of my martial souls?"
"Yes. It's exactly what I was about to say until you interrupted me!" exclaimed Old Shu in a grumpy tone.
Feng Long immediately tried to use both his Jade Eyes and Jade Body at the same time. First, Feng began to utilize his spiritual sea to control his spiritual energy and used that spiritual energy to guide the soul energy. Then, he unleashed both of his martial souls at the same time.
It was a demanding task. Feng began sweating as it was hard to control both spiritual energy and soul energy. He practiced again and again until he went into a trance-like state.
After five hours, Feng's spiritual and soul energy were depleted, and Feng had an epiphany. He could now somewhat utilize both his martial souls.
Feng asked, "Why is it not smooth? It's only a bit strong. It feels like it's very taxing on my body right now."
Guardian Shu replied, "It's because both of your spirit bodies are unique to each other one uses soul power while other uses spiritual power. But it will change in the future as you awaken your martial soul for the second time. Now, you should start showing some respect to me from now on."
Feng Long, with a menacing laugh, mocked Old Shu, saying, "I asked you to teach me how to be stronger. Am I stronger right now?"
(Guardian Shu was stunned, unable to believe the level of shamelessness his grandson displayed. He began shouting at Feng Long for being crafty and evil)
(Excitement coursed through Feng Long as he stood before the array of soul-guiding weapons, that were acquired from the Riyue Empire. These weapons,now entrusted to Feng long for study, represented a rare opportunity for him to delve into their mysteries)
With permission granted by the Sect Master, Feng Long embarked on his research journey. The workshop hummed with activity as he meticulously disassembled each weapon, studying the intricate mechanisms and configurations that channeled soul energy. He carefully documented every detail, from the alloys used in their construction to the resonance patterns of their soul cores.
Day and night blurred together as Feng immersed himself in the study of these advanced artifacts. He experimented with different configurations, seeking to optimize their efficiency and power output. Each disassembly and reassembly revealed new insights, pushing the boundaries of his understanding of soul-guiding technology.
As weeks passed, Feng's efforts yielded promising results. He began to discern patterns in the weapons' design, identifying weaknesses and areas for improvement. With each iteration, he honed his skills in manipulating soul energy, syncing his own martial soul's elemental affinities with the weapons' capabilities.
Occasionally, Guardian shu, would offer some of his insight,guidance and feedback. His wisdom and experience proved invaluable as Feng navigated the complexities of soul-guiding weaponry.
(On the twenty-first day, Feng Long finally exited his room with metal pieces all over his table)
And so, Feng Long's days transformed. Amidst the clang of forging weapons and the scent of incense, he delved into the mysteries of soul-guiding weapons, learning their histories and mechanics with a diligence that belied his age. Each night, he studied by flickering candlelight, his mind racing with strategies and plans.
In a dimly lit hall filled with rows of ornate chests and shelves laden with ancient artifacts, Feng Long's eyes gleamed with curiosity and determination. As a new initiate of the Body Sect, Feng had heard tales of the Soul-Guiding Weapons—an innovation from the rival Riyue Empire. Unlike the Body Sect, which prized raw strength and martial prowess, the Riyue Empire had developed these weapons to harness and amplify soul power.
The Body Sect elders viewed such weapons with disdain, considering them a crutch for those who lacked true mastery over their own souls. Yet, Feng saw an opportunity. He believed that understanding these weapons could provide invaluable insights, not only into the Riyue Empire's methods but also into the broader mechanics of soul power.
Every spare moment Feng had, he spent in the Body Sect's vault, poring over scrolls and studying the few Soul-Guiding Weapons captured from skirmishes with the Riyue Empire. These weapons, intricate and enigmatic, fascinated Feng. He meticulously disassembled and reassembled them, noting their construction and the ways they channeled soul energy.
When he wasn't in the vault, Feng dedicated himself to soul cultivation, guided by the profound teachings of the Mysterious Heaven Manual. This ancient tome, with deep insights into soul power, helped Feng increase his soul level steadily. His days were a blend of study and rigorous training. He developed unique body movements, refining his physical prowess and agility through sparring with senior Body Sect members twice a week. These sessions were grueling yet invaluable, honing his skills further.
Two years passed in this relentless routine. By age eight, Feng not only understood Soul-Guiding Weapons but had also become proficient in both physical and soul abilities. His dedication and dual approach to cultivation and combat made him stand out.
Initially skeptical of his interest in Riyue Empire technology, Body Sect elders began to see the wisdom in Feng's approach. He was on the cusp of breakthroughs that could bridge the gap between Douluo coalition and their rivals' tactics.
Feng's journey had begun, destined for greatness. He had the potential to transform the Body Sect's future and redefine soul mastery.
In the depths of the Body Sect's secret room which sect master had lent, Feng Long stood before the culmination of two years of relentless effort—a fully operational soul-guiding weapon. The chamber hummed with the ambient energy of his martial soul, echoing his anticipation as he prepared to test the weapon's capabilities.
The soul-guiding weapon, a masterfully crafted gauntlet adorned with intricate engravings that shimmered with latent soul power, rested before him on a pedestal. Its surface gleamed with a polished finish, concealing the complex mechanisms within that harmonized seamlessly with Feng's soul energy.
With a steady hand, Feng slipped his fingers into the gauntlet, feeling its weight settle comfortably against his palm. The runes etched into its surface glowed softly in response to his touch, a testament to the careful craftsmanship that went into its creation under Guardian Shu's guidance.
As Feng activated the weapon, a surge of soul power surged through him, flowing into the gauntlet and resonating with his martial soul's elemental affinities. He focused his thoughts, channeling the energy through the weapon's core and directing it towards a distant target within the chamber.
A beam of condensed energy erupted from the gauntlet, lancing through the air with precision and force. The impact struck the target with a resounding blast, leaving behind a faint echo of elemental resonance.
Feng Long's heart raced with exhilaration as he witnessed the weapon's potential unleashed. It surpassed his expectations, demonstrating not only its destructive power but also its versatility in combat situations.
In that moment, amidst the quiet triumph of his achievement, Feng Long knew he had unlocked a new chapter in the Body Sect's legacy of martial soul mastery. With the soul-guiding weapon as his ally, he stood ready to defend his sect and forge a path towards greater innovation and strength in the world of soul masters.
(Feng With his newfound confidence and a deeper understanding, he looked forward to applying his discoveries to benefit the Body Sect in future conflicts and advancements in the war with the Riyue empire)