With all eleven martial souls awakened and the system's power firmly under his command, Xin Tian stood as an unparalleled prodigy within Spirit Hall. The news of his unprecedented awakening had already begun to spread, casting ripples across the continent. For now, however, his focus was firmly on the mission set before him: to unify Spirit Hall from within and lay the foundation for the organization's rise under his guidance.
A Meeting with Bibi Dong
Bibi Dong summoned Xin Tian to her private chambers, a rare honor even among Spirit Hall's elite. The room was adorned with regal gold and deep purple hues, symbolizing Spirit Hall's power and ambition.
Bibi Dong gestured for Xin Tian to sit. Her gaze was sharp yet softened with a hint of maternal pride. "Xin Tian, the awakening ceremony has changed everything. Not just for you, but for Spirit Hall."
Xin Tian nodded, his expression calm but respectful. "I understand, Mother. The power I possess isn't just mine—it's a tool for Spirit Hall's future."
Bibi Dong leaned forward, her tone lowering. "You must tread carefully. Many within and outside Spirit Hall will seek to undermine you. Even those who stand beside us may fear what you represent."
"The heavens have chosen me," Xin Tian replied confidently. "Their fear will not deter me. I will ensure Spirit Hall rises as it was meant to."
Bibi Dong smiled faintly. "Good. I've arranged for you to join the advanced training division under Elder Ghost and Elder Chrysanthemum. Prove your worth in battle, and the doubters will fall silent."
The System's Guidance
As Xin Tian left Bibi Dong's chambers, the system's familiar voice echoed in his mind:
[System Notification]
1. New Feature Unlocked: Divine Guidance.
1. Description: Provides strategic insight for navigating complex challenges.
2. Cooldown: 24 hours.
New Quest Unlocked:
1. Title: Uniting the Heavens.
2. Objective: Gain the trust of Spirit Hall's high-ranking elders and solidify your position as the Celestial Arbiter.
3. Reward: Divine Martial Spirit Integration (Initial Form).
Xin Tian smirked. The system never fails to remind me of the path I must take.
Training with the Elders
The training division of Spirit Hall was a proving ground for its most promising talents. Here, Spirit Douluos and Titled Douluos honed their skills, preparing to defend Spirit Hall's interests across the continent.
Elder Ghost, shrouded in dark robes, and Elder Chrysanthemum, with his flamboyant presence, greeted Xin Tian with mixed expressions.
"So, you're the one everyone's been talking about," Elder Ghost said, his voice gravelly. "Let's see if your talent matches the rumors."
"Don't scare him, Ghost," Elder Chrysanthemum said, smirking. "We're here to refine his skills, not break him."
Xin Tian stepped forward confidently. "Test me as you see fit, elders. I'll surpass your expectations."
The Sparring Match
To gauge Xin Tian's abilities, the elders arranged a sparring match against some of Spirit Hall's elite trainees. Each opponent was a Spirit King or higher, with years of experience in battle.
Xin Tian stood calmly in the center of the arena as his first opponent—a Rank 55 Spirit King—stepped forward.
"Don't think your fancy martial souls will save you," the Spirit King sneered.
Xin Tian activated his Void Walker martial soul, vanishing into the shadows. Before the opponent could react, Xin Tian reappeared behind him, delivering a swift strike with his Eclipse Sword. The Spirit King staggered, his defenses shattered.
The crowd gasped as Xin Tian continued to dominate the sparring session, utilizing his martial souls with precision. Celestial Bow rained down arrows of light, Soul Mirror copied his opponents' strongest abilities, and Starlight Compass provided unparalleled battlefield control.
Within moments, all challengers lay defeated.
The Elders' Verdict
Elder Ghost stroked his chin thoughtfully. "His control and adaptability are beyond his years. He's a natural-born combatant."
Elder Chrysanthemum clapped his hands. "I must say, this boy is more than a prodigy—he's a phenomenon."
Xin Tian stood before the elders, his expression composed. "Have I proven myself?"
Elder Ghost nodded. "You've passed this test, but your journey is far from over. There are many who will test your limits, Xin Tian. Be ready."
The System Rewards
As the sparring session ended, the system chimed once more:
[System Notification]
1. Quest Complete: Initial Steps Toward Unity.
1. Reward: Divine Martial Spirit Integration (Initial Form).
New Ability Unlocked:
1. Fusion Skill: Divine Convergence – Temporarily merges all martial souls into a singular, godlike form, amplifying all abilities exponentially.
Xin Tian felt a surge of energy as the new ability settled within him. His martial souls briefly shimmered in unison, radiating divine power.
Ripples of Change
Back in the main hall, Bibi Dong received the elders' report. A rare smile graced her lips as she read the glowing remarks.
"Xin Tian's potential is limitless," she said to herself. "The world is about to change, and he will be at the center of it all."
Elsewhere, whispers of Xin Tian's prowess continued to spread. Rival factions began mobilizing, their leaders plotting how to counter the young prodigy.
Unbeknownst to them, Xin Tian was already several steps ahead, his will aligned with the heavens themselves.
End of Chapter 5