The journey back to Spirit Hall was marked by a sense of accomplishment, but Xin Tian couldn't ignore the weight of the new information he had uncovered. The insignia of the Obsidian Order and their apparent schemes against Spirit Hall hinted at deeper conflicts brewing across the Douluo Continent.
Bibi Dong awaited his report in the grand hall, her regal presence as imposing as ever. As Xin Tian stepped forward, the gathered elders whispered among themselves. They had heard of his overwhelming success in eliminating the rogue sect, but the details were still a mystery.
A Moment of Recognition
"Xin Tian," Bibi Dong began, her tone a mix of pride and authority, "you've exceeded all expectations once again. Not only did you complete the mission, but you've also uncovered a new threat to Spirit Hall."
Xin Tian bowed slightly. "It was the will of the heavens that guided me, Mother. The Obsidian Order is more than a simple rogue faction. They operate in the shadows, opposing all major powers on the continent. Their reach is deep, and their goals are unclear."
Elder Qian Daoliu, the Grand Priest of the Spirit Hall, stepped forward. "If what you say is true, the Obsidian Order poses a threat not just to Spirit Hall but to the entire balance of power. We must act swiftly."
Bibi Dong nodded in agreement. "Indeed. But before we make any moves, we must strengthen ourselves. Xin Tian, your contributions have not gone unnoticed. Today, Spirit Hall will reward you appropriately."
A Ceremony of Ascension
Bibi Dong gestured for Xin Tian to step forward. A platform in the center of the hall glowed with golden light as elders activated the array.
"Xin Tian," Bibi Dong announced, her voice echoing through the chamber, "for your unparalleled contributions and undeniable strength, Spirit Hall recognizes you as a rising pillar of our order. Today, you shall ascend to the rank of Titled Douluo."
The system chimed in at the same moment:
[System Notification]
7. Special Event Unlocked: Ascension to Titled Douluo
1. Objective: Absorb divine energy and elevate spirit power to the rank of Titled Douluo.
2. Reward: Title Selection and Heavenly Spirit Ring Blessing.
The platform radiated divine energy, enveloping Xin Tian in a cocoon of golden light. Each of his martial souls resonated with the energy, their forms glowing as they synchronized with the ascension process.
The Heavenly Trial
Suddenly, the hall trembled as a beam of light descended from the heavens. The elders gasped in shock—this was no ordinary ascension. Xin Tian was undergoing a Heavenly Trial, a phenomenon reserved only for those chosen by the divine.
Inside the cocoon of light, Xin Tian faced an ethereal dragon, its eyes burning with celestial fire.
"Xin Tian," the dragon's voice echoed, "you have been chosen to bear the will of the heavens. Prove your worth and claim the title that defines your destiny."
The dragon lunged at Xin Tian, its aura suffocating. But Xin Tian was unfazed. Activating Void Walker, he dodged its attacks effortlessly, his movements graceful and precise. His Eclipse Sword shimmered with divine energy as he struck back, each swing tearing through the dragon's defenses.
Finally, summoning his Godly Mandate, Xin Tian unleashed Celestial Purge, a radiant blast that engulfed the dragon. The trial ended as the dragon dissipated, its voice reverberating one last time.
"You are worthy, Celestial Arbiter. The heavens recognize your will."
The Title of Titled Douluo
As the light faded, Xin Tian stood on the platform, his aura vastly different. His spirit power had reached the rank of 91, officially marking his ascension to Titled Douluo.
The elders and spectators knelt instinctively, overwhelmed by the divine aura emanating from him.
Bibi Dong smiled proudly. "Xin Tian, from this day forward, you shall be known as Celestial Arbiter Douluo."
The system chimed once more:
[System Notification]
8. Ascension Complete: Titled Douluo Achieved
1. Title Granted: Celestial Arbiter Douluo
2. Bonus Reward: Heavenly Spirit Ring Blessing – All spirit rings will automatically reach 1,000,000 years upon absorption.
Xin Tian's eyes gleamed with newfound power. He bowed slightly. "I will use this strength to bring justice to the continent and ensure the heavens' will is carried out."
A New Mission
As the ceremony concluded, Bibi Dong summoned Xin Tian to her private chambers.
"Xin Tian," she began, "your ascension has sent shockwaves across the continent. While this strengthens Spirit Hall's position, it also paints a target on your back."
She handed him a scroll. "This contains intelligence about the Obsidian Order's possible bases. Your next mission is to uncover their true intentions and eliminate them if possible. This will not be easy. The Obsidian Order is shrouded in mystery, and their leaders are likely as powerful as you."
Xin Tian nodded. "The heavens have entrusted me with this power for a reason. The Obsidian Order will fall."
The Journey Continues
As Xin Tian prepared for his journey, he reflected on his path so far. From his awakening ceremony to his ascension as Titled Douluo, his destiny had been anything but ordinary.
But he knew this was only the beginning. The Obsidian Order, rival factions, and even hidden dangers within Spirit Hall itself loomed ahead.
With his martial souls fully awakened, his system guiding him, and the heavens watching over him, Xin Tian stepped into the unknown, ready to reshape the world.
End of Chapter 8