The Obsidian Core pulsed with dark energy as it rested on the central table of Spirit Hall's grand strategy room. Xin Tian, Bibi Dong, Qian Daoliu, and the other elders surrounded it, their expressions a mix of caution and determination.
"This artifact contains coordinates to the Obsidian Order's main headquarters," Xin Tian explained. "But it also acts as a beacon. They'll know we have it."
Qian Daoliu stroked his beard, his eyes narrowing. "A direct assault would be reckless. The Obsidian Order is not a simple enemy. They've operated in secrecy for years, and their hidden forces are likely formidable."
Bibi Dong's commanding voice cut through the discussion. "We cannot allow this threat to fester. But you're right, Qian Daoliu. We need to prepare. Xin Tian, your ascension has shaken the Douluo Continent. Use this time to master your new abilities. When the time comes, you'll lead the strike."
Xin Tian nodded. "Understood. I'll ensure I'm ready when the heavens demand justice."
A Journey of Mastery
Xin Tian retreated to the training grounds deep within Spirit Hall. These grounds were infused with spiritual energy, making them ideal for cultivation and combat training. As he stood amidst the serene environment, his system activated.
[System Notification]
13. Training Mode Unlocked: Divine Mastery
1. Objectives:
1. Enhance control over Martial Soul Fusion.
2. Refine the abilities of each martial soul.
3. Test compatibility with newly acquired spirit artifacts.
2. Time Limit: None.
3. Reward: Enhanced combat efficiency and hidden system upgrade.
Testing the Martial Soul Fusion
Xin Tian began by experimenting with his newly unlocked ability, Harmony of Heaven and Earth, which allowed him to fuse any two martial souls temporarily.
He summoned Celestial Bow and Void Walker, merging them into a single form. The result was a spectral weapon—Phantom Arrow—that phased through dimensions, striking targets with unerring accuracy.
The system chimed:
[System Notification]
14. Fusion Successful: Phantom Arrow
1. Description: A weapon capable of bypassing physical and spiritual defenses. Ideal for neutralizing high-level threats.
Xin Tian smiled faintly. "This will be useful."
Next, he fused Eclipse Sword and Soul Mirror, creating the Shadow Blade—a weapon that not only attacked but also absorbed the enemy's energy to replenish Xin Tian's own reserves.
Martial Soul Refinement
Each martial soul underwent rigorous testing. Xin Tian pushed their abilities to the limit, unleashing techniques he had only theorized about before.
15. Divine Convergence (God Martial Soul):
1. With this martial soul, Xin Tian summoned a radiant phoenix. Its divine flames were capable of purging all forms of corruption. He refined the ability to control the phoenix, using it both offensively and defensively.
16. Eclipse Sword:
1. Xin Tian enhanced his blade techniques, focusing on combining speed and precision. The Eclipse Sword's ability to shatter spiritual barriers became a devastating counter to defensive opponents.
17. Celestial Bow:
1. The bow's accuracy and destructive power grew as Xin Tian practiced firing multiple arrows in rapid succession, each infused with divine energy.
18. Void Walker:
1. Xin Tian pushed the limits of this martial soul, learning to phase through larger areas and even extend its effects to allies.
A Mysterious Encounter
As night fell, Xin Tian meditated beneath the moonlit sky. The Obsidian Core rested before him, its dark energy swirling ominously. Suddenly, a voice echoed in his mind.
"You who carry the will of the heavens, do you truly believe you can reshape this world?"
Xin Tian's eyes opened, his expression calm but alert. "Who speaks?"
A shadowy figure materialized, its form flickering like smoke. "I am but a fragment of the Obsidian Order's will. You may have uncovered one of our bases, but you've only scratched the surface of our power."
Xin Tian stood, his divine aura flaring. "The heavens have judged your order unworthy. Your schemes will end."
The figure laughed darkly. "You speak of the heavens, yet you wield power that defies even their natural order. Be wary, Xin Tian. The Obsidian Order does not fear gods or mortals."
Before Xin Tian could respond, the figure vanished, leaving behind a chilling silence.
System Upgrade
The system chimed once more:
[System Notification]
19. Hidden Upgrade Unlocked: Divine Resonance Mode
1. Description: Synchronizes all martial souls, allowing temporary access to their combined power without fusion.
2. Duration: 5 minutes.
3. Cooldown: 24 hours.
Xin Tian's eyes gleamed with determination. The Obsidian Order's arrogance only fueled his resolve. "They've underestimated the will of the heavens. That will be their undoing."
Bibi Dong's Trust
The next morning, Bibi Dong summoned Xin Tian to her chambers.
"You've grown stronger, Xin Tian," she said, her tone softer than usual. "But strength alone won't be enough. The Obsidian Order is cunning, and their reach extends far. Promise me you'll remain cautious."
Xin Tian nodded. "I will. But I also won't hesitate to bring them to justice."
Bibi Dong placed a hand on his shoulder. "Remember, you're not alone. Spirit Hall stands with you."
The Calm Before the Storm
As preparations for the assault continued, Xin Tian took a moment to reflect. His journey had brought him to the forefront of Spirit Hall's battle against an insidious enemy.
With his martial souls refined, his system upgraded, and his allies rallying behind him, Xin Tian knew the time was nearing. The heavens had chosen him to reshape the world, and he would fulfill that destiny.
End of Chapter 10