(At the heart of the Body Sect lay the Spiritual Center, a sacred sanctuary where disciples meditated and cultivated their soul strength. )
This place had a very high density of heaven and earth energy due to its geographical location, making it known for its high concentration of soul energy.
Soul Masters of the Body Sect practiced in this area when they reached their bottleneck in order to absorb and harness this energy, accelerating their cultivation progress. They often sought out these locations for intensive training to elevate their soul levels and strengthen their martial souls.
Where the heaven energy ebbed and flowed like tides, Feng Long had stalled at level 19 for more than three frustrating months. Despite his dedication and perseverance, his progression seemed to have hit an insurmountable barrier.
(Seeking guidance, Feng approached Guardian Shu for his wisdom and instruction within the spiritual sea)
"Guardian Shu," Feng Long implored, his voice echoing within the ethereal depths of the sea, "how can I break through to increase my soul rank?"
Guardian Shu, his presence shimmering like a constellation amidst the spiritual sea, gazed upon Feng Long with wise eyes. "It is time," he intoned softly, his voice carrying the weight of countless years of wisdom. "Retrieve the jade bamboo essence."
With a solemn nod, Feng Long closed his eyes, centering his Jade eyes. Between his brows, a faint jade-green glow materialized, resonating with the essence of his soul energy. Without hesitation, he invoked his soul energy control, summoning forth a gourd containing a mysterious, condensed liquid from the ether.
As he ingested the liquid, a surge of potent heaven and earth energy coursed through his meridians, invigorating every fiber of his being. With newfound determination, Feng Long embarked on an intense cultivation session, guided by the ancient teachings of the Mysterious Heaven Manual. Every breath synchronized with the flow of the soul energy, he absorbed the liquid's essence, refining his soul and expanding his spiritual sea.
Hours melded into days within the spiritual sea, where time itself bent to the rhythms of cultivation. Finally, as the last remnants of the liquid were assimilated, Feng Long felt a profound shift within. His soul resonated with newfound clarity and strength, marking the culmination of his efforts.
With a radiant aura enveloping him, Feng Long opened his eyes, now a Soul Master of soul level 20, ready to face new challenges in the ever-unfolding journey of soul cultivation.
(In the majestic halls of the Body Sect, where the essence of strength permeated every stone and beam, Feng Long stood before Sect Master Du Bojing)
"Sect Master Du," Feng Long began, his voice respectful yet tinged with determination, "I have reached a point in my cultivation where I seek permission to hunt a soul beast for my second soul ring."
Sect Master Du, a figure of formidable presence, studied Feng Long with a knowing gaze. "You have shown remarkable progress, Feng Long," he said.
With Du Bojing's voice carrying the weight of authority. "Very well, you have my permission to hunt a soul beast. However, you must do so under specific conditions."
Feng Long bowed deeply, acknowledging the honor and responsibility bestowed upon him. "Thank you, Sect Master. What are your conditions?"
"You will embark on this hunt accompanied by your seniors," Sect Master Du stated firmly. "But you must hunt the soul beast alone. Do not seek aid from your seniors during the battle."
Feng Long nodded solemnly, understanding the lesson in self-reliance that Sect Master Du intended to impart. "I understand, Sect Master. What about the soul ring?"
Sect Master Du's expression softened slightly. "You may obtain a soul ring for your Jade Eyes. However, you are not to place any soul rings in your Jade Body until you reach the Soul Saint realm. This is crucial for your future cultivation path."
"I will abide by your instructions, Sect Master," Feng Long promised earnestly.
With the permission granted and the conditions set, Feng Long left the presence of Sect Master Du and sought out Instructor Mei for further guidance. The wise instructor greeted him with a knowing smile, already anticipating Feng Long's visit.
Feng Long stood before Instructor Mei with a newfound aura of a peak soul master. His soul power had surged to level 20, marking a milestone in his journey of soul cultivation. Yet, with this advancement came a pressing need—a soul ring to further harness his potential.
"Instructor Mei," Feng Long began, his voice steady with determination, "I have reached the peak Soul master realm. Sect Master Du has granted me permission to hunt soul beasts in the forest for my spirit eyes. However, I need a soul ring to continue my soul cultivation. Which soul beast should I seek?"
Instructor Mei, a figure of experienced soul saint clad in robes that bore the marks of countless battles, regarded Feng Long with a mix of pride and concern. "Feng Long, as per Sect Master Du's decree, you cannot obtain a soul ring for your Jade Body. This path is closed to you."
Feng Long's brows furrowed slightly, but he nodded in understanding. "I see. But then, which soul beast and soul ring would be most beneficial for my future cultivation?"
The silence that followed hung heavy in the air, the gravity of their ignorance pressing down on them both. The Body Sect, which was renowned for its prowess in physical cultivation, lacked the expertise in the intricacies of soul rings.
Instructor Mei's eyes gleamed with a flicker of realization. "There is only one place with the knowledge and resources to guide you in this matter—the Shrek Academy."
Feng Long's heart skipped a beat. The Shrek Academy, legendary for its scholars and masters of martial souls, was revered across the lands for its comprehensive understanding of soul rings.
'The Shrek Academy who are also the part of our Douluo coalition. Although our relation with them aren't that great' said Mei ling with a contemplation.
Instructor Mei said again 'But, It shouldn't be a problem for you since you will be going as an student exchange to represent our body sect as a part of Douluo coalition'
"I will go to the Shrek Academy," Feng Long declared, his voice resolute. "I must find the soul ring that resonates with my Jade eyes, no matter the challenges ahead."
Instructor Mei nodded solemnly, placing a hand on Feng Long's shoulder. "Prepare yourself, young one. The journey will not be easy, but it is a path you must tread to fulfill your destiny."
'While In Shrek Academy you can also further researching the soul-guiding weapons and tools' instructed Mei ling adding "In your journey, remember the teachings of Sect Master Du," Instructor Mei advised gravely. "This hunt is not just for a soul ring, but for your growth as a soul master."
After leaving Instructor Mei's presence, Feng Long began preparing for the perilous hunt ahead. He knew that every step he took would not only bring him closer to acquiring his second soul ring but also enhance his martial soul potential. Shrek Academy was renowned as the pinnacle for soul masters, having produced god realm powerhouses.
Upon reaching his chamber, Feng Long pondered whom to invite to accompany him to Shrek Academy. Suddenly, he recalled Du Boqin's eagerness for adventure. Hastening to the sect headquarters, Feng noticed the familiar 'Do Not Disturb' sign hanging on the patched-up, worn-out door as always.
Curious if the sign was effective, Feng Long knocked twice before entering. With no response, he speculated that Du Boqin might be asleep again after a night of drinking.
Feng Long noticed that Du Boqin was still awake but seemed to be intentionally ignoring the knocks on the door. Undeterred, Feng Long approached Vice Sect Master Du Boqin with a proposition. "Instructor Boqin, since you're keen on venturing outside, why not accompany me as a representative of the Douluo Coalition to the renowned Shrek Academy?"
Du Boqin's face lit up with excitement at the prospect of the adventure alongside Feng Long.
"Of course, young Feng. I'll join you," he replied eagerly. "But don't expect me to assist you in battling soul beasts for your soul ring. You might think I'd show favoritism, but every sect member must earn their soul rings," Du Boqin stated in a solemn tone.
Feng Long retorted with a smirk, "Don't worry. You don't seem reliable enough for me to seek your help. Heck, you might be the first to run when facing a soul beast! Ha ha..."
Du Boqin felt mocked and swiftly threw a fist toward Feng Long's face.
With bruises forming on his face, Feng Long humbly apologized for his disrespectful behavior.
With a newfound sense of purpose burning within him, Feng Long began his preparations for the journey to the Shrek Academy. As he packed his belongings and bid farewell to the sect master, instructors, and fellow disciples.
(Alongside Vice Sect Master Du Boqin, they exited through the front door of the Body Sect)
During the journey, Feng Long asked Du Boqin, "Instructor, why aren't we flying?"
Du Boqin replied, "Because we don't want to expose the location of our Body Sect to enemies who have a grievance with us."
Feng Long asked again, "Won't the soul beasts attack us if we are walking like this?"
Instructor Du replied, "I am spreading my aura around us to frighten the millennium-year-old soul beasts and below. So, the chance is slim, but not that slim."
As Feng Long and Vice Sect Master Du Boqin ventured through the dense Xing Duo Forest on their way to Shrek Academy, the tranquility of the woods was shattered by a violent tremor. The ground quaked beneath their feet, sending leaves and small animals scurrying for cover. Feng Long tensed, sensing a powerful presence nearby.
Suddenly, emerging from the dense foliage, a colossal figure loomed before them. A massive black dragon with shimmering golden eyes stood before them, its aura pulsating with powerful soul power.
Feng Long's eyes widened in awe. Guardian Shu inside his spiritual sea immediately recognized the dragon as a formidable soul beast with over 500,000 years of cultivation and informed Feng Long to get to a safe distance as destruction was about to be unleashed in the forest.
Vice Sect Master Du Boqin, renowned for his fearless nature, grinned fiercely at the sight of the dragon. His excitement was palpable as he felt the challenge radiating from the dragon's imposing form.
The dragon's eyes narrowed as it regarded Du Boqin. "Uninvited guests disturbing my turf," the dragon rumbled in a voice like distant thunder.
Du Boqin stood his ground, his voice calm yet firm. "This forest is our Body Sect's home, lizard. There is no invitation needed where I roam freely."
The dragon scoffed, a plume of smoke curling from its nostrils. "Home? What home could a mere brute claim in these lands?" it taunted, eyes glinting with amusement. "You and your Body sect, all brute and no brain, wandering aimlessly through my lands."
Du Boqin's eyes darkened with anger, his blazing Fury empowering him. "You dare insult our Body Sect, creature of scales and arrogance!"
Enraged by the dragon's taunts, Du Boqin leaped into action, drawing upon his profound soul cultivation and unleashing a torrent of pure Body strength prowess. Feng Long watched in amazement as Du Boqin engaged the arrogant dragon in a fierce battle of strength, each move resonating with the power and determination that defined the pinnacle of Body arts.
With a primal roar, Du Boqin lunged forward, raging anger coursing through his veins as he clashed with the dragon in a fierce battle that shook the very roots of the forest. Their clash echoed through the Xing Duo Forest, causing chaos among the soul beasts.
(Du Boqin, his eyes blazing with determination, met the dragon's challenge head-on)
With a swift movement, he unleashed a series of lightning-fast strikes, each aimed with precision at exploiting the dragon's vulnerabilities. The dragon, undeterred by Du Boqin's initial onslaught, countered with thunderous roars that reverberated through the forest, shaking the very ground beneath their feet.
Feng Long, observing from a safe distance, marveled at Du Boqin's prowess. Each clash of their energies created shockwaves that stirred the leaves and sent birds scattering into the sky. The forest seemed to hold its breath as the battle raged on, the clash of Body arts and draconic fury echoing in a symphony of chaos and courage.
With every passing moment, Du Boqin's relentless assault pushed the dragon to its limits. Yet, the dragon, drawing upon it's centuries of millennium years of accumulated power, responded with cunning maneuvers and devastating counterattacks.
As the battle reached its climax, Du Boqin tapped into his deepest reserves of strength and skill. Du began to tap into the soul energy strength provided by his soul core recklessly.
With a final, decisive strike, he managed to breach the dragon's defenses, leaving a significant wound on its flank.
The dragon, sensing its imminent defeat, bellowed, "I, Di Tian, will have my revenge!!," before retreating into the depths of the forest, its pride wounded but spirit unbroken.
Exhausted yet victorious, Du Boqin stood amidst the aftermath, his chest heaving with exertion and badly wounded. Feng Long approached, his admiration evident in his gaze, as they both acknowledged the significance of their encounter. For in that fleeting moment, amidst the ancient forest and echoing cries, they had witnessed the great beast of the forest.
Du Boqin, with a saddened face, said, "Ah god! Ha! It seems in this life I am fated to not achieve the Limit Hyper Douluo."
Having broken his soul core and exhausted from the fight, Du Boqin suddenly fainted due to extreme tiredness.
Feng Long began blaming himself for being weak and holding back Instructor Boqin from escaping.
Feng hurriedly asked Guardian Shu in his spiritual sea, "What happened to the Vice Sect Master? Is he hurt?"
Guardian Shu replied, "One of his soul cores is broken, which cannot be mended unless he takes a heavenly treasure. This means he can't make any progress further."
Feng Long, with a gloomy face, said, "It's my fault for being weak. If it hadn't been for me, the Instructor could have fled on his own."
Guardian Shu said, "Stop being depressed and take out the Origin Grade Soul Mending Lotus." Feng closed his eyes, and a jade-green glow appeared between his brows. Suddenly, a translucent lotus materialized out of thin air.
(Feng Long hurriedly fed it to Du Boqin, and soon the lotus began repairing his broken soul core, even raising Boqin's soul level by one)
After four hours, Du Boqin woke up from his slumber and couldn't believe what he was witnessing.
"My... My soul level has breached the Limit Hyper Douluo. What? My soul core is also there? Ha ha, is this a dream? If it is, please don't let me wake up, god," said Du Boqin in amazement.
"It's reality, Instructor Boqin. Why are you acting as if the sky fell to the ground? Isn't it just one rank increase in strength?" said Feng Long in an ignorant tone.
"You ignorant brat!" Du Boqin smacked Feng Long on top of his head with his knuckle.
"Ouch! What did I say wrong? Isn't it just a rank?" said Feng again, rubbing his head where a giant bump had appeared.
"You brat, you don't know anything," Boqin smacked Feng's head again and said, "The gap between each realm in the Limit Hyper Douluo is like that of a great rank, and you say it's just one rank?"
Feng, massaging his head, finally understood why Du Boqin and Du Bojing had reacted in such a way; having recently entered a great realm himself, he now knew how monumental the leap was.
"Anyway, thank you, Feng. I now know that you are also the reason why Bojing reached the Limit Hyper Douluo. If there is absolutely anything in the future you need help with, ask me for help, except for soul beast hunting, as I can't change the sect rules myself," said Du Boqin with a warm look in his eyes.
Feng Long nodded gently and also assured his instructor that as members of the Body Sect, they should support each other in times of need.
Both of them made their way out of the Xing Duo Forest towards Shrek Academy.
Feng Long asked, "Where exactly is Shrek Academy located?"
Du Boqin replied, "It's between the border of Tianhun Empire, xingluo empire and Duoling empire and it is not directly associated with any specific empire. Instead, it is an independent entity known for its unique cultivation methods and contributions to soul master training."
Du Boqin took out the Flying Soul-Guiding Flight Tool. Activating the device behind his back, he felt a surge of soul energy resonate through his body. The tool hummed to life, emitting a soft glow as intricate runes illuminated its surface. A faint force field enveloped the Instructor, gently lifting him off the ground.
Du Boqin caught Feng Long by one arm, and they continued the rest of their journey flying.
A day later, they finally reached the border of the Tianhun Empire. Five hours after that, Shrek City finally came into sight.
Feng Long had heard tales of Shrek City and its legendary Shrek Academy for years, but nothing could have prepared him for the sight that greeted him as he approached the city gates for the first time.
As he crossed the threshold into Shrek City, Feng Long was immediately struck by the vibrant atmosphere. The streets were bustling with activity, filled with soul masters of various ages and backgrounds. Colorful banners adorned the buildings, depicting symbols of soul power and mastery.
The architecture of Shrek City was a blend of traditional and modern elements. Tall, elegant towers rose into the sky, their spires adorned with intricate carvings and banners fluttering in the wind. The streets were lined with shops selling all manner of soul tools and artifacts, their windows displaying mesmerizing displays of glowing crystals and intricate mechanisms.